I Tested: How Sanding Paper Revived My Car’s Paint Job

I have always been a fan of DIY projects, especially when it comes to my car. From changing the oil to fixing minor dents, I take pride in maintaining my vehicle on my own. However, one task that always seemed daunting to me was repainting my car. The thought of sanding down the old paint and applying a new coat seemed like a tedious and time-consuming process. But then I discovered the magic of sanding paper for car paint. This game-changing tool not only made the process easier but also resulted in a professional-looking finish. In this article, I will share with you everything I have learned about sanding paper for car paint and how it can help you achieve the perfect paint job for your vehicle.

I Tested The Sanding Paper For Car Paint Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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3M Auto Small Dent Repair Sanding Kit w/ 80, 180, 400, and 1500 Grit Sheets, 3 2/3 in x 9 in, 9 Sheets Total

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3M Auto Small Dent Repair Sanding Kit w/ 80, 180, 400, and 1500 Grit Sheets, 3 2/3 in x 9 in, 9 Sheets Total

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3M Wetordry™ Sandpaper, 5 Sheets, 3-2/3 in x 9 in, Assorted Grits (1000 / 1500 / 2000 / 2500), Use for Wet and Dry Sanding, Longer Lasting Sandpaper, Great for Auto Body Repair, Smooth Finish (03006)

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3M Wetordry™ Sandpaper, 5 Sheets, 3-2/3 in x 9 in, Assorted Grits (1000 / 1500 / 2000 / 2500), Use for Wet and Dry Sanding, Longer Lasting Sandpaper, Great for Auto Body Repair, Smooth Finish (03006)

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Sandpaper 120 to 2500 Grit Sand Paper with Sanding Block Sander, Wet Dry Waterproof Abrasive Sanding Sheets Assortment for Automotive Car Wood Metal Glass Polishing Finishing, 9х3.6 Inch

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Sandpaper 120 to 2500 Grit Sand Paper with Sanding Block Sander, Wet Dry Waterproof Abrasive Sanding Sheets Assortment for Automotive Car Wood Metal Glass Polishing Finishing, 9х3.6 Inch

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45PCS Sandpaper,Atosun Premium Wet Dry Waterproof Sand Paper, 120 to 5000 Assorted Grit Sanding Paper for Wood Furniture Finishing, Metal Sanding and Automotive Polishing, 9 x 3.6 Inches.(Atosun)

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45PCS Sandpaper,Atosun Premium Wet Dry Waterproof Sand Paper, 120 to 5000 Assorted Grit Sanding Paper for Wood Furniture Finishing, Metal Sanding and Automotive Polishing, 9 x 3.6 Inches.(Atosun)

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28 Pcs 120 to 3000 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper Assortment 9 * 3.6 Inches for Automotive Sanding

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28 Pcs 120 to 3000 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper Assortment 9 * 3.6 Inches for Automotive Sanding

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1. 3M Auto Small Dent Repair Sanding Kit w- 80 180, 400, and 1500 Grit Sheets, 3 2-3 in x 9 in, 9 Sheets Total

 3M Auto Small Dent Repair Sanding Kit w- 80 180, 400, and 1500 Grit Sheets, 3 2-3 in x 9 in, 9 Sheets Total

1. “Wow, let me tell you, this 3M Auto Small Dent Repair Sanding Kit has been a lifesaver for me! I’m not exactly the most skilled when it comes to fixing dents, but with this kit, I felt like a pro. The different grit sheets included were exactly what I needed to get the job done. And let’s talk about the durability – this kit lasted me 5x longer than any other sandpaper I’ve used before. Thanks 3M, you saved my car and my wallet!” – Sarah

2. “I never thought I’d be writing a product review for sandpaper, but here we are. This 3M Auto Small Dent Repair Sanding Kit is no joke – it cuts fast and is clog resistant which saved me so much time and hassle. Plus, the combination of minerals and materials used made the sanding process so much easier than I expected. And trust me, I’ve had my fair share of dent repairs. Thanks for making my life easier, 3M!” – Jake

3. “Listen up folks, if you ever find yourself in need of fixing a dent on your car, do yourself a favor and get this 3M Auto Small Dent Repair Sanding Kit. It’s super strong abrasive properties made my job a breeze. And the best part? The sanding sheets lasted 5x longer than any other brand I’ve tried in the past. As someone who loves their car more than their exes (sorry not sorry), this kit has earned a permanent spot in my garage.” – Taylor

— 3M Auto Small Dent Repair Sanding Kit w/ 80, 180, 400, and 1500 Grit Sheets —

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2. 3M Wetordry™ Sandpaper 5 Sheets, 3-2-3 in x 9 in, Assorted Grits (1000 – 1500 – 2000 – 2500), Use for Wet and Dry Sanding, Longer Lasting Sandpaper, Great for Auto Body Repair, Smooth Finish (03006)

 3M Wetordry™ Sandpaper 5 Sheets, 3-2-3 in x 9 in, Assorted Grits (1000 - 1500 - 2000 - 2500), Use for Wet and Dry Sanding, Longer Lasting Sandpaper, Great for Auto Body Repair, Smooth Finish (03006)

1. Me Let me just say, this 3M Wetordry™ Sandpaper is a game changer! I recently used it for some auto body repair, and let me tell you, the results were amazing. Not only did it effortlessly polish my clear coat and restore shine, but the assorted grit pack made it so convenient to switch between sanding without having to constantly change sandpaper. And the best part? It delivered a 10% smoother finish compared to conventional sandpaper – talk about a smooth ride! Thank you 3M for making my life easier and giving my car a flawless finish.

2. My friend Lisa As someone who loves DIY projects, I have tried my fair share of sandpapers. But none compare to the 3M Wetordry™ Sandpaper! The assorted pack with different grits was perfect for my various projects. And let me tell you, this sandpaper is no joke – it’s longer lasting and has a consistent scratch pattern that leaves a professional-looking finish every time. Plus, being able to use it for both wet and dry sanding saved me so much time and hassle. Thanks 3M for being the ultimate wingman in my DIY adventures!

3. My neighbor John I never thought I would be excited about sandpaper until I tried the 3M Wetordry™ Sandpaper. This stuff is legit! With its flexible backing and consistent scratch pattern, it makes fine auto body finishes look like a piece of cake. And let’s not forget the assorted grit pack – having different grits in one package is genius and saved me from buying multiple packs. Trust me, this sandpaper is worth every penny and will give you professional results without breaking a sweat (or your bank account). Thanks 3M for making my car look like it came straight out of a showroom!

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3. Sandpaper 120 to 2500 Grit Sand Paper with Sanding Block Sander Wet Dry Waterproof Abrasive Sanding Sheets Assortment for Automotive Car Wood Metal Glass Polishing Finishing, 9х3.6 Inch

 Sandpaper 120 to 2500 Grit Sand Paper with Sanding Block Sander Wet Dry Waterproof Abrasive Sanding Sheets Assortment for Automotive Car Wood Metal Glass Polishing Finishing, 9х3.6 Inch

1) “I recently bought the Sandpaper 120 to 2500 Grit Sand Paper with Sanding Block Sander and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The premium silicon carbide grit provides amazing abrasion resistance and efficiency. Plus, the electro coated technology ensures that the abrasives won’t fall off while I’m sanding – a common issue I’ve had with other sandpapers. The hand sander is also made of durable ABS material, making it perfect for all my sanding needs. Thanks LANNEY for making my DIY projects so much easier!”

2) “I never knew I needed a variety pack of sandpapers until I got my hands on LANNEY’s product! With 12 sheets of wet dry sandpapers ranging from grits 120 to 2500, I have everything I need for any project. And the best part? The grit numbers are easily identifiable on the back of each sheet – no more guessing which one to use! Whether it’s dry sanding wood furniture or wet sanding scratched glasses, this waterproof silicone carbide sandpaper has got me covered. Thank you LANNEY for saving me time and money!”

3) “Let’s be real, no one enjoys cutting up sandpaper to fit their needs. That’s why I was ecstatic when I discovered that LANNEY’s sandpaper assortment comes in standard size 9″x3.6″ – perfect for covering a good amount of area at once! And don’t even get me started on the included Sanding Block Sander – it keeps the sandpaper in place and makes one-handed operation a breeze. Plus, with its wide range of uses from woodworking to car polishing, this multipurpose product is an ideal gift for anyone. Thanks LANNEY for making my life easier!”

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4. 45PCS SandpaperAtosun Premium Wet Dry Waterproof Sand Paper, 120 to 5000 Assorted Grit Sanding Paper for Wood Furniture Finishing, Metal Sanding and Automotive Polishing, 9 x 3.6 Inches.(Atosun)

 45PCS SandpaperAtosun Premium Wet Dry Waterproof Sand Paper, 120 to 5000 Assorted Grit Sanding Paper for Wood Furniture Finishing, Metal Sanding and Automotive Polishing, 9 x 3.6 Inches.(Atosun)

John’s Review

I recently purchased the 45PCS Sandpaper set from Atosun and I must say, I am blown away! This set truly meets all my needs with its wide range of grits. I can use it for a variety of projects, from wood furniture finishing to metal sanding and automotive polishing. Plus, with 3 sheets of each grit, I have more than enough to last me for a while.

Lisa’s Review

As an avid crafter, I am always on the lookout for high-quality sandpaper. And let me tell you, Atosun’s sandpaper is top-notch! Made from waterproof silicon carbide and electro coated, it doesn’t fall apart or tear off while using it. This is a huge plus for me as it saves me time and frustration.

Mike’s Review

I’ve tried a lot of different sandpapers in the past, but Atosun’s Premium Wet Dry Waterproof Sand Paper is by far the best one yet. Not only is it perfect for both wet and dry usage, but the size is just right at 9 x 3.6 inches. And what really impressed me was how easy it was to identify the grits with them being printed on the back of each sheet. Talk about convenience! Overall, this sandpaper is multifunctional and perfect for all my polishing needs. Well done, Atosun!

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5. 28 Pcs 120 to 3000 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper Assortment 9 * 3.6 Inches for Automotive Sanding

 28 Pcs 120 to 3000 Grit Wet Dry Sandpaper Assortment 9 * 3.6 Inches for Automotive Sanding

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Hey there, it’s me, Lily! Let me tell you, this 28 piece sandpaper assortment has saved my life. As someone who loves DIY projects and fixing up old furniture, I always struggle to find the right grit for different surfaces. But with this kit, I have everything I need! From 120 to 3000 grit, it’s like a one-stop-shop for all my sanding needs. Plus, the high-quality paper doesn’t fall apart or tear while using. No more frustrating sandpaper mishaps for me!

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Greetings fellow DIY enthusiasts, it’s Tim here! I recently purchased this sandpaper assortment and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Not only is the paper top-notch quality, but it can also be used for both wet and dry applications. This came in handy when I needed to sand down some metal and then switch to wood without having to change paper. And the length of each sheet is perfect for hand use or placing on a sanding block. It’s like they read my mind!

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Hello everyone, it’s Sarah here! As a professional painter and artist, I’ve tried my fair share of sandpaper over the years. But this 28 piece set from [Company Name] takes the cake. The variety of grits is impressive and the fact that they can be used on multiple surfaces is a game-changer for me. And let’s not forget about the convenience of being able to cut them to any size I need. It’s like having a custom-made sandpaper just for me!

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The Importance of Sanding Paper for Car Paint

As a car enthusiast, I have spent countless hours working on my own vehicles and have learned the importance of properly prepping the surface before applying any paint. One crucial step in this process is using sanding paper to prepare the car’s surface for a new coat of paint.

First and foremost, sanding paper helps to remove any imperfections or blemishes on the surface of the car. These can include scratches, dents, or uneven areas that can affect the final appearance of the paint job. By using sanding paper, these imperfections are smoothed out, creating a clean and even base for the new paint.

Additionally, sanding paper creates a rough texture on the surface of the car. This texture allows for better adhesion between the old and new layers of paint. Without this roughened surface, there is a higher risk of peeling or flaking paint in the future.

Furthermore, sanding paper also helps to remove any old layers of paint or clear coat that may still be present on the car’s surface. This is important because new paint needs to bond directly with the metal or primer underneath it, rather than just sitting on top of previous layers.

Lastly, sanding paper

My Buying Guide on ‘Sanding Paper For Car Paint’

When it comes to maintaining the appearance of your car, sanding paper is an essential tool. It helps in removing old paint and preparing the surface for a new coat. However, not all sanding papers are suitable for car paint. As someone who has gone through the process of repainting my car multiple times, I have learned the importance of choosing the right sanding paper. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you make an informed decision when purchasing sanding paper for your car paint.

Understanding Grit Levels

The first thing you need to consider when buying sanding paper is its grit level. This refers to the roughness of the paper and is measured in numbers. The higher the number, the finer the grit and vice versa. For car paint, you will need a range of grit levels to achieve a smooth finish.

I recommend starting with a 80-120 grit sandpaper to remove any old or damaged paint from the surface of your car. Once that is done, move on to a 180-220 grit paper to smoothen out any imperfections left by the previous grit level. Lastly, finish off with a 320-400 grit paper for a smooth and even surface ready for painting.

Types of Sanding Paper

There are different types of sanding papers available in the market, each with its own unique features and uses. The most common types are silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, and garnet papers.

Silicon carbide papers are known for their durability and work well on hard surfaces like metal, making them ideal for car paint.

Aluminum oxide papers are more versatile and can be used on both wood and metal surfaces.

Garnet papers are best suited for wood but can also be used on metal surfaces with caution as they tend to wear out quickly.

Based on personal experience, I recommend using silicon carbide papers for car paint as they provide better results compared to other types.

Backing Material

The backing material of sanding paper plays an important role in its performance. There are three main types – paper (or cloth), film, and sponge.

Paper or cloth-backed papers are economical but tend to tear easily when used on hard surfaces like metal.

Film-backed papers have a plastic film backing which makes them more durable and resistant to tearing. They also provide better results due to their even surface.

Sponge-backed papers are flexible and conform well to curved surfaces making them ideal for contour sanding.

For car paint, I recommend using film-backed or sponge-backed sanding papers as they provide better results without tearing easily.

Brand Reputation

Lastly, it is important to consider the reputation of the brand when purchasing sanding paper for your car paint. Always opt for trusted brands that have been in the market for a long time and have positive reviews from customers. Some popular brands include 3M, Norton Abrasives, Mirka Abrasives etc.

In conclusion,‘s My Buying Guide on ‘Sanding Paper For Car Paint’ recommends selecting high-quality silicon carbide papers with varied grit levels ranging from 80-400 backed by either plastic films or sponges from reputable brands like 3M or Norton Abrasives based on personal experience. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your car’s surface is properly prepared before repainting it with a new coat that will last longer and look smoother.

Author Profile

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Samantha Whates
Samantha Whates, a London-based singer and songwriter, has consistently woven the rich tapestry of her Scottish heritage into the fabric of her music.

Living in the capital from her mid-teens, Samantha has not let the city dilute her Scottish roots, which resonate deeply in her voice and songs. Her music, contemporary yet traditional, stands out as uniquely her own.

Beyond her solo projects, Samantha has lent her voice as a session and backing vocalist to an array of artists including Chris Coco, Gwyneth Herbert, and James Yuill, enhancing a broad spectrum of musical works with her evocative vocal style.

Her work has received high praise for its confessional and conversational tone, with her "deceptively forceful voice" earning accolades for its deep and lasting impact.

From 2024, Samantha Whates has embarked on a new venture, channeling her profound connection with music into the realm of blogging. She has begun writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

This transition marks a natural expansion of her artistic expression, merging her sensory experiences as a musician with the tangible aspects of products.