Best Car Paintwork Primers of 2025

Joseph Prokop Avatar
Joseph Prokop
Last Updated: 8 Feb 2025

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Car paintwork primers are essential products for anyone looking to achieve a high-quality and long-lasting paint finish on their vehicle. Primers are applied before the topcoat to provide a smooth and stable surface for the paint to adhere to, helping to prevent cracking, flaking, and other damage. They also help to seal the surface and provide protection against rust and other forms of corrosion. With a wide range of options available to suit different types of paint and surfaces, car paintwork primers are an indispensable tool for achieving professional-quality results.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

JENOLITE Grey Primer Filler Spray Paint Cover #TOP 1
JENOLITE Grey Primer Filler Spray Paint
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Hycote Fast Drying Grey Primer Spray Paint Cover #TOP 2
Hycote Fast Drying Grey Primer Spray Paint
ftb score rating icon 9.7
U-POL 2K High Build Paint Primer Kit Cover #TOP 3
U-POL 2K High Build Paint Primer Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Car Paintwork Primers

#TOP 1

JENOLITE Grey Primer Filler Spray Paint

89213
Grey
400 g (Pack of 1)
JENOLITE Grey Primer Filler Spray Paint Cover
JENOLITE Primer Filler Spray Paint | GREY | High Fill Multi-Surface Primer Paint | Fills Small Dents & Scratches | Perfect For Car Bodywork, 3D Printer Models & More | 400ml

The JENOLITE Primer Filler is a high-quality spray paint designed to fill small surface imperfections such as scratches and dents, ensuring a smooth surface ready for top-coating. Its tough acrylic formula allows it to adhere to metal, wood, and plastic surfaces, making it versatile for various applications, including car bodywork and 3D printing. You can overcoat it within 24 hours, saving you time on your projects. With multiple colour options available, you can choose the perfect shade to match your needs.

What We Like
Fills scratches and dents
Works on multiple surfaces
Fast drying time
Available in various colours
Smooth finish for painting
#TOP 2

Hycote Fast Drying Grey Primer Spray Paint

XUK03015
Grey Primer
400 ml (Pack of 1)
Hycote Fast Drying Grey Primer Spray Paint Cover
Hycote Fast Drying Aerosol Car Spray Paint, Grey Primer, 400 ml

The Hycote Grey Primer is designed for use on various metallic and rigid plastic surfaces, ensuring compatibility when used with the right primers. This product has been rigorously tested for super-fast drying, allowing you to complete your projects more efficiently. Its extreme durability means that your finishes will stand the test of time, while excellent adhesion to primed surfaces guarantees a smooth application. This primer is also suitable for acrylic and cellulose paint finishes, making it versatile for different painting needs.

What We Like
Fast drying time
Extreme durability
Excellent adhesion
Versatile for various surfaces
#TOP 3

U-POL 2K High Build Paint Primer Kit

S2025W/1KIT
White
2 count (Pack of 1)
U-POL 2K High Build Paint Primer Kit Cover
U-POL 1.25 Litre Kit 2K High Build Paint Primer Kit 1 Litre Tin of WHITE S2025 + S2030 0.25 Litre Fast Hardner 1.25ltr Kit

The U-POL Primer Kit is an excellent choice for your car paintwork needs. With same day dispatch available for orders placed before 12:30pm, you can start your project promptly. The kit includes a 1-litre can of high build white primer, which is mixed at a convenient 4:1 ratio, making it easy to prepare. This multifunction primer is versatile, ensuring you achieve a smooth and durable finish. Additionally, it comes with a 0.25 litre activator and hardener, providing everything you need for effective application.

What We Like
Same day dispatch available
Easy 4:1 mixing ratio
Versatile multifunction primer
Includes activator and hardener
#TOP 4

E-TECH Technik Self-Etch Primer for Vehicles

ER00112
Grey
400 ml (Pack of 1)
E-TECH Technik Self-Etch Primer for Vehicles Cover
E-TECH Technik Self-Etch Primer (Allows difficult motorbike & car surfaces such as metals, glass, steel trims, aluminium, engine, alloy wheels etc to be painted)

The E-TECH Self-Etch Primer is designed to create a robust foundation for painting. It chemically etches surfaces, ensuring excellent adhesion for primer and paint. This feature is particularly beneficial when working with difficult materials like metal and glass. Additionally, it microscopically penetrates the surface, enhancing the bond and durability of your paint job. This primer is also ideal for restoring alloy wheels, allowing you to achieve a professional finish with ease. Furthermore, it can be overpainted, giving you flexibility in your projects.

What We Like
Excellent adhesion for paints
Ideal for alloy wheel restoration
Chemically etches surfaces
Can be overpainted
#TOP 5

PROTOUCH 1K High Build Cellulose Primer

Grey
1 l (Pack of 1)
PROTOUCH 1K High Build Cellulose Primer Cover
PROTOUCH 1K CELLULOSE PRIMER HIGH BUILD PRIMER FILLER 1 LITRE READY TO SPRAY RFU - GREY

The PROTOUCH High Build Primer is a ready-to-use, 1K grey primer designed for convenience. You will appreciate that it requires no thinning, making application straightforward. Its high build formulation allows for excellent filling, ensuring a smooth surface for your paintwork. Suitable for use under basecoat and 2K paints, this primer is ideal for those looking to achieve a professional finish with ease.

What We Like
Ready for immediate use
No thinning needed
High build for smooth finish
Compatible with various paints
#TOP 6

Apl Chemicals Carbusonic Mordant Solution for Galvanised Metal

mse3
blue
1 l (Pack of 1)
Apl Chemicals Carbusonic Mordant Solution for Galvanised Metal Cover
Apl Chemicals Carbusonic Mordant Solution for galvanised metal T-wash Pre Etch Primer 1LT 1 litre

Apl Chemicals Mordant Solution is ideal for treating new galvanised steel. It chemically etches the metal, enhancing adhesion for your etch primer coat. Being water-based, it is safe to use on most metals, making it a versatile choice for various projects. You can easily apply it with a brush, rag, or sponge, ensuring a hassle-free application process. This product also features a colour change indicator, providing visual confirmation when the treatment is complete.

What We Like
Enhances adhesion for primers
Safe for various metals
Easy application methods
Colour change indicator
Water-based formula
#TOP 7

U-POL 2K High Build Black Primer Kit

S2025B/1KIT
Black
2 count (Pack of 1)
U-POL 2K High Build Black Primer Kit Cover
U-POL 1.25 Litre Kit 2K High Build Paint Primer Kit 1 Litre Tin of BLACK S2025B + S2030 0.25 Litre Fast Hardner 1.25ltr Kit

The U-POL Black Primer Kit is a versatile solution for your car paintwork needs. With same day dispatch for orders placed before 12pm on weekdays, you can quickly get started on your project. The 1 Litre can of U-POL High Build Black Primer is mixed at a convenient 4:1 ratio, ensuring excellent coverage. This multifunction primer comes with a 0.25 Litre activator and hardener, providing everything you need for a robust finish. You'll appreciate the ease and efficiency this product brings to your painting tasks.

What We Like
Same day dispatch available
1 Litre primer can
Convenient mixing ratio
Includes activator and hardener
#TOP 8

Autotek Etch Primer Spray for Various Surfaces

AT000EP500
grey, GREY
500 ml (Pack of 12)
Autotek Etch Primer Spray for Various Surfaces Cover
(12 CANS) Autotek Etch Primer Spray for Aluminium Galvanised Steel Stainless GRP Plastic

The Autotek Etch Primer Spray is an essential choice for anyone looking to prepare surfaces such as aluminium, galvanised steel, stainless steel, GRP, and plastic. This product, available in a convenient pack of 12 cans, allows you to tackle multiple projects without worrying about running out. Each 500 ml can provides ample coverage, ensuring you achieve a uniform finish. By using this primer, you can enhance adhesion for subsequent paint layers, resulting in a longer-lasting and more durable paint job.

What We Like
Multiple surface compatibility
Convenient pack of 12 cans
500 ml per can
Enhances paint adhesion
#TOP 9

5 Inch Woollen Primer Applicator by REJEL

WST54B
Brown
5 Inch Woollen Primer Applicator by REJEL Cover
PRIMER APPLICATOR 5 INCH - 100 PER BAG

The REJEL Primer Applicator is a professional windscreens tool designed specifically for applying primer to bodywork and glass. Its 100% woollen material ensures smooth application, helping to prevent splashing, which keeps your workspace clean. The thin wire shaft offers excellent control, allowing you to reach awkward areas with ease. With this applicator, you can achieve a neat finish every time, making your tasks more efficient and effective.

What We Like
Professional-grade tool
Prevents splashing
100% woollen material
Thin wire for control
#TOP 10

Steyer 1L High Build Cellulose Primer Filler

CHBP1:1
Grey
Steyer 1L High Build Cellulose Primer Filler Cover
1L Cellulose High Build 1K Primer Filler 1:1 Mix Grey Celle Car Body Repairs Super Fast Dry

The Steyer Cellulose Primer Filler is designed for efficient car body repairs. This grey cellulose primer filler dries quickly, allowing you to move on with your project without delay. Its easy sanding feature means you can achieve a smooth finish effortlessly, making your work look professional. Plus, the 1:1 mix ratio with thinner ensures you have the right consistency, making application straightforward and convenient for you.

What We Like
Fast drying time
Easy to sand
1:1 mix ratio
Excellent coverage
Suitable for any paint overcoat
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What kind of primer should I use to paint my car?

Epoxy Primer - Epoxy primer is considered a good standard base when it comes to ensuring the auto paint bonds to the metal and promotes a quality paint finish. It's formulated specifically to prevent corrosion, so epoxy primer for cars won't sand as well as other types, like urethane primer.

2. Do you need primer when painting over paint car?

It's good to prime over auto paint to fill up the existing imperfections. Still, priming over auto paint offers you a coating to sand easily and spray paint without issues. For better adherence with the auto paint, I suggest that you leave the primer to dry 24 hours before painting your car.

3. Which car primer is best?

Top 5 Best Automotive Primers to Cover Old Paint. U-POL High Solids High Build Urethane Primer Kit With Hardener.Speedokote SMR 210/211 - Automotive High Build 2K Urethane Primer.Speedokote Epoxy DTM Primer Sealer Kit SMR-260G/261.Evercoat 713 Gray Feather Fill G2 Primer.

Editor's Notes

During our car paintwork primer research, we found 95 car paintwork primer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 35,997 customer reviews through our big data system to write the car paintwork primers list. We found that most customers choose car paintwork primers with an average price of £20.13.

The car paintwork primers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car paintwork primers, including JENOLITE, Hycote, U-POL, E-TECH, PROTOUCH. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,705 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Joseph Prokop Avatar

Joseph is a seasoned writer who's also passionate about automotive. His passion for automotive care and maintenance fuels his drive for more knowledge in the field. He currently resides in Middlesbrough, where he finds time to write informative contents on automotive. His automotive related articles are quite popular in journals around the world. Joseph continues to use his wealth of experience in the industry to create helpful guides on automotive.