Paint & Colour Basics
An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) code is the series of letters and/or numbers that identify the exact colour formula used by the vehicle manufacturer. This code is entered into our paint system to bring up the precise paint mix recipe for that particular vehicle and colour.
The base colour is the pigmented paint that provides the actual colour of your vehicle. It is mixed to an accurate colour recipe using the OEM code. On its own, it offers colour but very little environmental or UV protection, which is why it is normally finished with a clear coat (lacquer) on top.
Clear coat (or lacquer) is a UV-stable, transparent protective coating applied over the base colour. It protects the paint from the elements, adds gloss and depth, and helps the repair blend more seamlessly with the surrounding original finish.
Almost all modern automotive paint systems are designed to use clear coat.
All major vehicle manufacturers and body shops use it, and any reputable
touch-up company should too.
Clear coat protects your paint’s colour. It has UV and chemical resistance
as well as other protective qualities. Paints are engineered to be used
with clear coat, so without it you may not get the correct depth, gloss,
or long-term durability you expect.
You can usually find your car's paint code in the owner's manual, on a
label inside the driver's door jamb, under the bonnet, or in the boot
area. Once you have the code, you can search our website to find the
exact colour match.
If you’re unsure, send us your registration/VIN and clear photos of your
vehicle and we’ll help you identify the correct colour.
Our paints are mixed using OEM-matched formulas designed to match your car’s original factory finish. However, factors like age, sun exposure, previous repairs and polishing can slightly change the shade of your existing paint. For best results, apply in thin layers and blend the edges so the repair transitions smoothly into the surrounding area.
Yes, our paints can be used on most painted automotive surfaces including metal panels, plastic bumpers and trims, and motorcycles, as long as they are properly prepared, clean, and free from grease. For bare plastic, we recommend a suitable plastic primer before applying the base colour and clear coat.
Using Touch-Up & Aerosol Paint
Car touch-up paint is a specialised paint designed to repair small scratches, chips, stone impacts and blemishes on your vehicle's exterior. It helps maintain your car's appearance, prevents rust by sealing exposed metal, and can significantly improve the look and value of your vehicle without the cost of a full body shop respray.
We provide detailed instructions with each product. In general:
1. Clean and degrease the damaged area thoroughly.
2. Lightly sand any rough edges or rust and, if needed, apply primer.
3. Apply the base colour in thin, even layers, allowing each coat to dry
before applying the next.
4. Once the colour is even and fully dry, apply clear coat to protect
and add gloss.
5. Allow the repair to cure, then optionally polish to blend further.
Our aerosol products are designed for easy at-home use, making it
possible to achieve a professional-looking finish with basic preparation
and patience.
Primer is recommended if the scratch or chip has gone through to bare metal or plastic. Primer improves adhesion, corrosion resistance and overall durability of the repair. For light surface marks where the original primer is still intact, you can often apply colour directly without additional primer.
Drying times will vary with temperature and humidity, but as a guide:
• Touch-dry: usually within 20–30 minutes per coat
• Recoat time: typically 30–60 minutes between light coats
• Clear coat application: after 2–4 hours, once the colour has flashed
off
• Full cure: 24–48 hours for most conditions
Avoid washing, waxing or polishing the repaired area until the paint has
fully cured.
For best results, apply touch-up and aerosol paints in a dry, dust-free environment at a moderate temperature (typically between 15°C and 25°C). Cold or damp conditions can slow drying times and may affect the finish. If you must work in cooler weather, try to use a well-ventilated indoor space such as a garage and allow extra drying time between coats.
As a general guide, when stored correctly (upright, tightly closed and
away from extreme heat or frost):
• Paint Pen: around 1+ year
• Paint Bottle: around 3+ years
• Aerosol: around 3+ years
Always shake well before use and check the paint looks smooth and mixes
properly. If in doubt, contact us before applying to your vehicle.
Orders, Delivery & Support
Yes. Our products are formulated using high-quality automotive-grade pigments and resins to match your car's factory finish as closely as possible. When applied correctly with the recommended clear coat, they provide a durable, long-lasting repair that stands up to everyday use and weather conditions.
If you have recently placed an order with us and want to track its progress, give us a call on +44 (0) 2866 322720 or contact us with your order number. We will supply you with your tracking details and an update on your delivery status.
Delivery times can vary depending on your location and the shipping method selected at checkout. Most UK orders arrive within a few working days once dispatched. International orders may take longer due to customs and local postal services. You will receive confirmation when your order has been shipped, and tracking is available on most services.
Yes, we ship to many countries worldwide. Shipping options and charges are shown at checkout once you enter your delivery address. Please note that local customs rules may apply and could affect delivery times or incur additional charges in your country.
If you believe you have received the wrong colour or ordered an incorrect code, please contact us as soon as possible with your order number and, if possible, photos of the issue. If the error is on our side, we will work with you to correct it. For full details on exchanges and returns, please refer to our returns policy or get in touch with our support team for advice before using the product.