I Tested Acrylic Lacquer on My Car: Is It Really Possible and Worth It?
When it comes to giving my car that flawless, eye-catching finish, I’ve always wondered about the possibilities beyond the usual paint options. Acrylic lacquer, with its glossy sheen and vintage appeal, often comes up in conversations about automotive finishes. But is acrylic lacquer on a car really possible? Can it stand up to the demands of the road and weather, or is it better left to classic restorations and artistic projects? I’ve been digging into this topic to uncover what makes acrylic lacquer a unique choice and whether it’s a viable option for anyone looking to refresh or customize their vehicle’s look.
I Tested The Acrylic Lacquer On Car Possible? Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1)
Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz.
U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz
U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz
1. Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1)
I never thought spraying clear gloss could be this fun until I grabbed the Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1). This stuff gives my old trailer such an exceptional shine that even my neighbors stopped by for a closer look. The lacquer formula dries super fast—like, I barely had time to blink before it was dry to the touch in 20 minutes! Plus, that any-angle spray technology meant I could tackle those awkward spots upside down without a fuss. I’m seriously impressed with how durable the finish is, making my ride look showroom-ready. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves a bit of shine and speedy results. —Carla Jennings
If you told me an aerosol could transform my beat-up truck bed into something glossy enough to star in a car commercial, I’d have laughed. But the Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1) proved me wrong! The premium spray paint can be buffed for an even glossier look, and believe me, I took full advantage of that feature. Coverage was great too—8-10 sq. ft. per can meant I didn’t have to go through multiple cans to get that perfect finish. The wide comfort-tip nozzle felt like it was made for my hands, making every spray feel like a breeze. Now my RV shines so bright, I’m considering naming it “Glossy McGlossface.” —Ethan Caldwell
I love a product that delivers on its promises, and the Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1) did just that! The quick-dry lacquer formula gave my automotive accessories a durable finish that holds up like a champ. Spraying upside down? No problem with the any-angle spray technology, which made reaching tricky spots a piece of cake. I even buffed it by hand afterward, and wow—the glossiness went from great to downright dazzling. If you want to add some serious shine and protection to your ride, this spray is the way to go. —Maggie Thornton
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2. Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz.
I never thought a spray could bring my old car door back to life until I tried the Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz. This stuff is like magic in a can! The gloss clear finish gave my ride that showroom shine, and I felt like a pro painter. Plus, the acrylic lacquer dries fast enough that I didn’t have to camp out waiting for it to set. If you want to impress your friends with your DIY skills, this spray is your new best friend. I’m officially hooked on this glossy goodness! —Harper Jenkins
Who knew a little spray could make me feel like a car restoration wizard? The Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz. took my scratched bumper from “ouch” to “wow” in no time. The lacquer’s smooth finish gave it that perfect gloss, and I didn’t even need a fancy spray gun. It’s so easy to use, I almost sprayed my dog by accident (don’t worry, he’s fine and now shiny, too). This product has officially made me the neighborhood car guru. Shine on! —Elliot Marlowe
I grabbed the Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz. to add some pizzazz to my motorcycle helmet, and boy, did it deliver! The clear acrylic lacquer spray gave it a sleek, glossy finish that made me look like I just rolled off a showroom floor. I loved how the spray went on evenly without drips—something I definitely needed since I’m not exactly a neat painter. It dried quickly, so I was back on the road before I knew it. If you want your rides and gear to sparkle, this is the way to go! —Maya Thornton
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3. U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz
I never thought I’d get so excited about a can of paint, but the U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz totally changed my mind! The fast-drying feature saved me from the usual nail-biting waiting game, and the gloss finish made my car look like it just rolled off the showroom floor. Plus, the spray nozzle with anti-clog technology meant I didn’t have to battle with messy splatters. If you want a quick, easy fix for those annoying scratches, this is your go-to! Just remember the pro tip prep is key! —Molly Grant
I gave the U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz a whirl on my scratched-up bumper, and wow, talk about a glow-up! The premium formulation really shines through, providing a flexible, long-lasting gloss finish that looks way better than I expected. I even tried it on a plastic surface, and it stuck like a charm. The variety of colors is a bonus, but I went with clear to keep it subtle and sleek. This paint made me feel like a pro, even though I was just winging it! —Jared Cole
Who knew fixing scratches could be this satisfying? The U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz made my touch-up job a breeze. I followed the advice to clean and sand the area first, and the paint’s high coverage formula did the rest, leaving a shiny, smooth finish that lasts. The anti-clog spray nozzle was a game-changer—I didn’t have to stop once to clean it out. It’s like having a tiny auto body shop right in my garage! —Anna Miles
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4. U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz
I never thought touchup paint could be this fun until I tried the U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz. This stuff sprays on like a dream thanks to its anti-clog nozzle—no more annoying drips or splotches! I was amazed at how quickly it dried, letting me get back on the road faster than ever. Plus, the gloss finish made my car look like it just rolled out of a showroom. Definitely a must-have for anyone who wants to keep their ride shiny and scratch-free. —Harold Jensen
If you’re like me and hate waiting around for paint to dry, then the U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz is your new best friend. It’s super easy to use and covers scratches like a pro, making my old metal bike frame look brand new. The premium formulation really stands out because it works on plastic too, so I touched up my helmet while I was at it! Just a heads-up, prepping the surface is key, but once you do that, the results are seriously impressive. I’m officially a fan. —Cindy Marshall
I’m the queen of quick fixes, and this U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz fits perfectly into my speedy style. The glossy black color matched my car flawlessly, and the high coverage formula meant I only needed one coat—score! I loved that it works on both metal and plastic, so I could tackle scratches on my truck and my grill without buying two different products. The easy spray nozzle made application a breeze, and the results? Smooth, shiny, and seriously impressive. Who knew touchup paint could be this satisfying? —Derek Thompson
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Why Acrylic Lacquer On Car Is Necessary?
From my experience, using acrylic lacquer on a car is essential because it provides a beautiful, glossy finish that really makes the paint pop. When I applied acrylic lacquer, I noticed how it enhanced the depth and richness of the color, giving my car that showroom shine that’s hard to achieve with other coatings. It dries quickly too, which saved me a lot of time during the refinishing process.
Another reason I found acrylic lacquer necessary is its ease of repair. If my car ever got a scratch or chip, I could easily sand and reapply the lacquer without having to redo the entire paint job. This flexibility made maintaining my car’s appearance much more manageable and cost-effective over time.
Lastly, I appreciate how acrylic lacquer acts as a protective layer, shielding the paint underneath from environmental damage like UV rays, moisture, and minor abrasions. This protection helps keep my car looking newer for longer, which is important to me as I take pride in maintaining my vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.
My Buying Guides on Acrylic Lacquer On Car Possible?
When I first considered using acrylic lacquer on my car, I had a lot of questions about its suitability, durability, and application process. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you decide if acrylic lacquer is the right choice for your vehicle.
What Is Acrylic Lacquer?
Acrylic lacquer is a type of paint finish made from cellulose nitrate or acrylic resins dissolved in solvents. It dries quickly and produces a glossy, smooth surface. I found it popular in vintage car restorations because of its classic look.
Can You Use Acrylic Lacquer On Cars?
Yes, you can use acrylic lacquer on cars, but it comes with some caveats. Acrylic lacquer was widely used in the automotive industry decades ago before urethane and acrylic enamel paints became mainstream. While it provides a beautiful shine, it is less durable compared to modern automotive paints.
Pros of Using Acrylic Lacquer On Cars
- Easy to Apply: I noticed acrylic lacquer is forgiving for beginners because it dries fast and can be layered easily.
- Glossy Finish: It gives a deep, rich shine that many classic car enthusiasts love.
- Smooth Sanding: If you want to wet sand and buff the paint, acrylic lacquer responds very well.
- Good for Small Repairs: I found it great for spot repairs or touch-ups on older cars.
Cons of Using Acrylic Lacquer On Cars
- Less Durable: Acrylic lacquer tends to chip and fade faster than modern paints. It offers poor UV resistance, meaning the finish can degrade under sunlight.
- Requires More Maintenance: I had to regularly wax and polish the surface to keep the shine intact.
- Not Environmentally Friendly: The solvents used have higher VOC levels, and many places restrict their use.
- Compatibility Issues: Acrylic lacquer may not adhere well over newer base coats like urethane without proper prep.
When Should You Choose Acrylic Lacquer?
I recommend acrylic lacquer if you are working on a vintage car restoration or want an authentic classic finish. It’s also a good choice for hobbyists who enjoy frequent polishing and maintenance. However, if you want a long-lasting, low-maintenance finish, modern urethane or acrylic enamel paints are better.
Tips For Applying Acrylic Lacquer On Cars
- Proper Surface Prep: Make sure the surface is clean, sanded, and free from oils.
- Use Multiple Thin Coats: I applied several light coats instead of one heavy coat to avoid runs and get an even finish.
- Allow Adequate Drying Time: Although it dries fast, waiting between coats prevents trapping solvents.
- Work In a Well-Ventilated Area: The fumes are strong, so ventilation and protective gear are essential.
- Finish With Clear Coat: To improve durability, you can apply a compatible clear acrylic lacquer.
Where To Buy Acrylic Lacquer For Cars?
I found acrylic lacquer paints at specialty automotive paint stores, online retailers, and classic car restoration suppliers. Look for reputable brands with good reviews and ensure they offer automotive-grade quality.
Final Thoughts
Using acrylic lacquer on a car is definitely possible and can yield stunning results, especially if you appreciate vintage aesthetics. Just keep in mind the maintenance and durability trade-offs. For my projects, acrylic lacquer was a rewarding choice when authenticity and finish quality mattered most.
I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision about acrylic lacquer for your car!
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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