11 best automotive high temperature paint

Automotive high-temperature paint is a specialized type of paint designed for use on surfaces that are exposed to high temperatures. It is commonly used in the automotive industry for various applications, especially on parts of a vehicle's engine and exhaust system that become very hot during operation. Here's what you should know about automotive high-temperature paint:

  1. Heat Resistance: One of the primary characteristics of automotive high-temperature paint is its ability to withstand extreme heat. These paints are formulated to resist temperatures far higher than regular paints can endure. This makes them suitable for components such as exhaust manifolds, headers, and other engine parts that can reach very high temperatures.

  2. Prevents Corrosion: High-temperature paint not only provides a protective coating but also helps prevent corrosion and rust on metal surfaces exposed to heat and moisture. This is crucial for components like exhaust systems, which are susceptible to rust due to the combination of heat and moisture exposure.

  3. Types of Formulations: There are various types of high-temperature paint formulations available, including silicone-based and ceramic-based options. The choice of formulation depends on the specific application and the level of heat resistance required. Silicone-based paints, for example, are known for their flexibility and durability, while ceramic-based paints offer excellent heat resistance.

  4. Color Options: Automotive high-temperature paint is available in a range of colors, allowing vehicle owners and enthusiasts to customize the appearance of their exhaust systems and other high-heat components. Popular colors include black, silver, and various metallic shades.

  5. Preparation and Application: Proper surface preparation is crucial when using high-temperature paint. Surfaces should be clean, free from grease and rust, and often primed with a high-temperature primer before applying the paint. Application methods can include brush, spray, or even powder coating, depending on the product and the specific component.

  6. Durability: High-temperature paint is known for its durability and resistance to flaking, peeling, and chipping, even under extreme heat conditions. This ensures that the coating remains intact and continues to protect the surface over time.

  7. Maintenance: While high-temperature paint is durable, it may still require occasional maintenance, especially in high-heat areas that experience significant temperature fluctuations. Regular inspections and touch-ups can help maintain the protective and aesthetic qualities of the paint.

  8. Safety Considerations: When applying high-temperature paint, it's important to follow safety guidelines, including proper ventilation and the use of protective gear, as some formulations may release fumes during the curing process.

In summary, automotive high-temperature paint is a specialized coating designed to withstand extreme heat and protect metal surfaces, particularly in the automotive industry. It is essential for preserving the appearance and functionality of components exposed to high temperatures in vehicles.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best automotive high temperature paint on the market
  

VHT ESP451007 Anodized Blue Color Coat Can - 11 oz.

VHT

Based on 643 reviews Check latest price

Product description

VHT SP451 Anodized Blue Anodized Color Coat Paint allows DIYers to create an anodized look under their hoods. The unique transparent coating creates an anodized effect over properly prepared chrome, shiny bare metal and faux chrome-like surfaces for a spectacular metallic finish. VHT Anodized color coat is formulated for high temperature and high performance engine paint applications. It withstands intermittent temperatures up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit. To create the anodized metal look over non metal and or painted surfaces first prime with VHT anodized base coat. Then apply VHT anodized color coat when dry. VHT provides a multi-high performance coating system for the ultimate protection and quality. The system includes a recommended adhesion promoter, paint and clear coat. Dries to the touch in 30 minutes, thoroughly overnight. Does not require curing. Follow all steps outlined on each can for best results.

  • Dries to the touch in 30 minutes
  • Dries thoroughly overnight
  • No curing required
  • Provides a multi-high performance coating system
  • This item is not for sale in Catalina Island

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use this for ovens
Answer: on outside sure / very low quality paint - I wouldn't buy it again
Question: painting headers and exhaust can this paint hold up? And what prepping will I need
Answer: I doubt very much this would hold up on headers - other post-cat exhaust components? Maybe - certainly tips.
Question: Do I have to wet-sand the base coat or wet sand after this is applied
Answer: No. Do them at the same time. I had great results. Do light coats a cpl minutes apart for base. Then go straight in and do the purple. The purple is hard to get perfect so take your time. Mine turned out great
Question: how many square feet does a can cover
Answer: One can did 2 coats of a BBQ grill cover roughly 9sf with plenty left over

Product features

VHT Anodized Color Coat

This unique transparent coating creates an anodized effect over properly prepared chrome, shiny bare metal and faux chrome-like surfaces for a spectacular metallic finish. VHT Anodized Color Coat is formulated for high temperature and high-performance engine paint applications. It withstands intermittent temperatures up to 550°F (228°C).

To create the anodized metal look over non-metal and/or painted surfaces, first prime with VHT Anodized Base Coat. Then apply VHT Anodized Color Coat when dry.

POR-15 44118 Black High Temperature Paint Flat - 15 fl. oz.

POR-15

Based on 172 reviews Check latest price

Product description

POR-15 High Temp paint is capable of withstanding extreme temperatures up to 1200°F / 648. 8°C and will resist cracking, chipping, and peeling. It is also extremely weather, salt and moisture resistant. POR-15 High Temp is the most uniform heat-resistant coating available anywhere, and will maintain rich, brilliant colors without burning off or discoloring. Can be used on all cars, domestic or foreign. Meets or exceeds properties and requirements of MIL-C-13370. Replaces POR-20, Black Velvet, Fire Seal 2000, and Factory Manifold Gray

  • Resists Extreme temperatures up to 1200 F
  • A rich flat black color that won't burn off

User questions & answers

Question: Is this suitable for going directly onto fibreglass (heat shield
Answer: On my wife's 2017 Challenger GT AWD. It is a little bit lighter, than the yellow jacket yellow. Still looks really good, the wife likes it.
Question: Bottom of my metal fire pit is rusty. Can I prepare the metal and spray it with this paint? Food is not cooked on the fire pit
Answer: I used the BCP404 blue kit on the black Dodge RAM 1500 I use to have and it turned out great. I had the truck for over a year after I applied the paint and I saw no chipping / wear on the paint so it holds up well and it is worth it. Hints: (1) Get a lot of good brake cleaner, clean the calipers well and dry them completely before starting. (2) Open the kit and throw away the paint brush that comes with it. It's a hard bristled application brush, not a paint brush. Invest a few dollars in 2 or 3 soft bristled paint brushes for models / arts & crafts and use them. This will take the streaks out of the paint and keep it smooth. (3) If possible, let the paint dry but then also wait a day before you drive the vehicle to let it cure well before you put heat to the calipers. I think you'll love the results.
Question: Is this gasoline restistant? I want touse it on a carburator
Answer: Ignore Carlos, he's a jerk. We all know what you're asking... I'd imagine with the right prep and such, this paint would bond to plastic.
Question: Do I need to prime the headers first
Answer: Not for a rookie painter's first project. Like any superior paint project, the secret is Prep, Prep, and Prep. I cleaned with Simple Green @ 50% solution first; next, roughed up with aluminum oxide sandpaper and wire brush; then brake cleaner (2 cans for 4 calipers) for final cleaning prep. Set up a good light so that you can see what you are doing inside the fender well. I use a 500 watt halogen work light.My front calipers on both cars are large 4 piston, fixed mount, with a lot of surface area. Plan on at least two coats, there is plenty of paint in the can for 8 calipers X 2 coats, with some left over to touch up chips later. Plan your brush stroke approach ahead, work from bottom to top (gravity may cause runs). Keep the wet edge of paint moving, as the paint dries very quickly; that's why you have to plan your stroke strategy, to minimize the width of the wet edge. Don't go back to cover a thin or missed spot for at least 20-30 minutes, it will stick and pull if you do. The directions on the package are ambiguously worded.I concur with other reviewers, get a decent brush, I used both 1/2 inch and 1 inch brushes. The packaging does not specify any thinner/solvent at all. I successfully used common mineral spirits paint thinner, both to thin the paint a little (use sparingly) if the humidity is low, and to clean brushes. Use a separate cup/bowl to apply from (don't use a Styrofoam coffee cup, the paint dissolves it). Pour from the paint can to your working cup/bowl (stir each time), so that you don't contaminate the unused paint and close the lid on the source can so that the source paint's thinner doesn't evaporate. Each caliper may take you 45 minutes to apply one coat. Make yourself comfortable with a stool or kneeling pad, this becomes a marathon job to do right. Putting the car on a lift makes the job easier than using jack stands. Don't forget to use newspaper or cardboard to protect the garage floor or driveway from paint drips... the stuff is hard to get off once it sets up.I had to move the cars after the 2nd coat had dried an hour. I was very careful mounting the wheels, as the freshly painted calipers would be very tender. I traveled at under 30 mph, with minimal brake use for 2 miles to my garage for the 24 hour drying time. That avoided heat and brake dust; it had no affect on the final quality. I am pleased with my results, close to concours quality.On previous cars, I used spray paint with good results, but color not as bright and glossy. This time I decided to save masking time (a lot of time to do a thorough and careful masking job) by using this brush on product. What I saved in masking time, I lost in painting time. Once masked, spray paint goes on quickly with good coverage. Applying with a brush and minimal masking requires a steady hand in some areas. Brushing the paint on is a tedious process. Each caliper may take you 45 minutes to apply one coat. My calipers are large, 4 piston, fixed mount. Make yourself comfortable with a stool or kneeling pad, this becomes a marathon job to do right. Putting the car on a lift makes the job easier than using jack stands. Good lighting is essential while working in the fender well. I used a 500 watt halogen work light.Remain conscious of paint setup time and drying time. You have to wait at least 20-30 minutes to start the second coat, but under 1 hour to start the second coat -- or if over 1 hour, then wait 5 days for curing before starting the second coat. Start the second coat with the same brushing pattern as you used for the first coat. So that means you can only have two calipers in the painting process of multiple coats in a session. Once those two are complete and drying, take a break, then start on next two calipers.

Product features

POR-15 High Temp Heat Resistant Paint

POR-15 High Temp paint is capable of withstanding extreme temperatures up to 1200°F / 648.8°C and will resist cracking, chipping, and peeling. It is also extremely weather, salt and moisture resistant. POR-15 High Temp is the most uniform heat-resistant coating available anywhere, and will maintain rich, brilliant colors without burning off or discoloring. Can be used on all cars, domestic or foreign. Meets or exceeds properties and requirements of MIL-C-13370.

Comes in three colors: Flat Black, Manifold Gray, and Aluminum

Available in Liquid or Aerosol spray

* Replaces POR-20, Black Velvet, Fire Seal 2000, & Factory Manifold Gray

G2 High Temperature Brake Caliper Paint System Set Blue G2162

G2

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Automotive Caliper Paint Kit Manufactured by G2 USA, Inc. Kit includes 4oz of paint, Reactor, Brake Cleaner, and Brush Packet.

User questions & answers

Question: It is glossy without the need of a clear coat? I was also considering smoothing the caliper with drimmel like a guy I saw on a video. suggestions
Answer: These are made in China and are made with great quality
Question: is this color a lime green or more of a standard green color? i am trying to match up the paint of my car which is dragon green and bright
Answer: No, there is no opening, it has a solid, inflated center
Question: I have never seen paint that sticks well to metal without primer. Does this have a primer in the kit
Answer: No Gus sorry
Question: I'm reading some people are using th VHT Caliper Clear Coat over this G2 kit, is it really needed
Answer: Yes! We all used these - ages 7 to adult.

Rust-Oleum 248904 Automotive High Heat Spray Paint, 12 Oz, Flat Aluminum

Rust-Oleum

Based on 342 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Rust-Oleum High Heat Enamel Spray Paint is formulated for use on surfaces that reach intermittent heat of up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. Protective enamel creates a durable coating that dries fast for quick completion. Convenient any angle spray technology with unique comfort spray tip reduces finger fatigue while painting.

From the Manufacturer

Rust-Oleum High Heat is a tough protective enamel that renews and protects surfaces subject to heat up to 2000°F (1093°C).

  • Ideal for use on automotive parts and surfaces subject to intermittent high heat up to 2000°F
  • Tough enamel features Stops Rust formula to prevent corrosion and rust with ultimate protection
  • Dries to touch in 30 minutes, covers up to 10 sq. ft. per can
  • Durable, long lasting coating protects against grease, oil, gas, salt, rust, humidity and other solvents
  • Creates a smooth, flat protective finish to renew the look of your car or truck

User questions & answers

Question: How do you cure the paint if you can't put the object in the oven? I want to use this to paint my oven
Answer: Works on plastic chrome grilles
Question: Can this be used on car rims for repainting
Answer: Yes
Question: Can I use it on brake rotors and calipers
Answer: Have not used regular Silver so not sure. First time using this product waiting to see how what happens once it gets brake dust on it.
Question: could I use this to replace a muffler heat shield that has fallen off
Answer: No, there is at least enough for two wheels and probably four if you don't waste it. Keep your can distance to about 6 inches and you should be able to do a full set.

Eastwood Ceramic Nanotechnology Blue American Car Engine High Temperature Paint 1 Quart 32 oz

Eastwood

  • Hi-Temperature Paint With Ceramic Nanotechnology
  • Super Durable, Utilizing Ceramic Nanotechnology
  • Protects Up To 650 Degrees F,This Is The Highest Heat Resistance In The Industry!
  • For Greater Durability And Gloss, Also Purchase 21854Z Activator
  • This Item Does Not Ship To California Due To State Regulations

User questions & answers

Question: Can you paint Aluminium with this
Answer: It is huge! My husband used his air compressor. It doesn’t come with its own pump.

Dupli-Color - EDE161307 Engine Enamel,Black,16 oz. Size

Dupli-Color

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Engine Enamel, Black, Gloss Finish, Container Size 16 oz., Coverage Up to 14 sq. ft., Dry Time 25 min., Max. Temp. 500 Degrees F, VOC Content 0.57g/L, Matched to OEM

  • Automotive Paints and Coatings
  • Paint, Equipment and Supplies
  • Country of Manufactury: United States
  • Commercial Brand: Dupli-Color

User questions & answers

Question: customers who painted their brake calipers, how is this paint holding up
Answer: Buy caliper temp paint. I suggest the higher the better I used 1200 and it lasted awhile but 2000 on brake drums still is holding color on a semi I have
Question: I want to use this to paint my GPU shield would this handle the heat
Answer: I would think it would handle a graphics card just fine.
Question: Can more people please post pictures of paint jobs and list the color used so people can see what the colors truly look like? In various lighting too
Answer: Hi,Thats something that is not an option on amazon they only allow the picture of the item.Thanks,
Question: I want to coat a wooden box with this so it doesn't catch on fire from a high energy 1,000+ watt bulb placed inside. Will it work
Answer: Anytime you mix wood and heat you could be asking for trouble ! 1000 watts is approx. 400 degrees fahrenheit, like others mentioned testing, is caution with a positive outcomes. Proceed carefully.

Product features

Engine Enamel with Ceramic

Dupli-Color Engine Enamel contains Ceramic Resins for maximum heat dissipation and gloss retention. The resins offer protection from exposure to excessive heat and automotive fluids. Excellent for under-the-hood applications, Dupli-Color Engine Enamel will perform to the most rigorous standards of racing, street rod, and vehicle restoration enthusiasts. This durable formula resists temperatures up to 500°F intermittently and produces a finish that will not blister, flake, crack or peel.

POR-15 44116 Black High Temperature Paint Flat - 8 fl. oz.

POR-15

Based on 582 reviews Check latest price

Product description

POR-15 High Temp heat resistant paint is designed for use on metal surfaces subject to elevated temperatures. The coating is designed to protect steel that is exposed to heat ranges up to 1200°F. This coating system provides excellent weathering. Resists mild industrial fumes and properly cured films will resist thermal shock.

  • Withstands Temperatures up to 1200 Fahrenheit – 648. 8 Celsius
  • Resists Cracking, Chipping, and Peeling
  • Weather, Salt, and Moisture Resistant
  • Can be used on manifolds, headers, exhausts, and stacks

User questions & answers

Question: Should I use metal prep on exhaust pipes before painting with high temp paint
Answer: that's why i purchased it, no other product lasted on my electric stove top. this product has not discolored since i put it on about 3 months ago. all other stove top paints did not work,, glad to help
Question: Can I use an exhaust manifold without having to use a high temperature primer
Answer: My guess would be no, it's for high heat but probably not that high. I just spray the outside and legs after winter. It does a great job of covering the rust on my cheapo Walmart BBQ. Makes it look brand new every spring, this is my third season using it.
Question: Wii it stick to stoneWalled this work on a couple of stones behind a fireplace
Answer: I used this for the exterior of my BBQ grill not the metal racks but the enclosure/ exterior body. I personally would not spray this on my oven racks for safety reasons.
Question: can i use this on exterior wood stove
Answer: Here is a list of the contents; lead is not one of them: Acetone, Liquefied Petroleum Gas, Xylene, Ethylbenzene, Iron Manganese Oxide, Magnesium Silicate, Copper Chromite Black, Solvent Naptha, Light Aromatic, 1,2,4 Trimethylbenzene, and Carbon Black

Product features

POR-15 High Temp Heat Resistant Paint

POR-15 High Temp paint is capable of withstanding extreme temperatures up to 1200°F / 648.8°C and will resist cracking, chipping, and peeling. It is also extremely weather, salt and moisture resistant. POR-15 High Temp is the most uniform heat-resistant coating available anywhere, and will maintain rich, brilliant colors without burning off or discoloring. Can be used on all cars, domestic or foreign. Meets or exceeds properties and requirements of MIL-C-13370.

Comes in three colors: Flat Black, Manifold Gray, and Aluminum

Available in Liquid or Aerosol spray

* Replaces POR-20, Black Velvet, Fire Seal 2000, & Factory Manifold Gray

Eastwood Ceramic Nanotechnology Universal Gloss Black Engine High Temperature Paint 1 Quart 32 oz

Eastwood

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price
  • Hi-Temperature Paint With Ceramic Nanotechnology
  • Super Durable, Utilizing Ceramic Nanotechnology
  • Protects Up To 650 Degrees F,This Is The Highest Heat Resistance In The Industry!
  • For Greater Durability And Gloss, Also Purchase 21854Z Activator
  • This Item Does Not Ship To California Due To State Regulations

VHT Duplicolor ESP823007 Orange High Temperature Plastic Paint, 11. Fluid_Ounces

VHT

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

VHT(R) Prime Coat(TM) is an excellent foundation for any enamel, acrylic or synthetic lacquer. It provides a tough, air-dry base with excellent adhesion to intermediate and top coatings. VHT(R) Prime Coat(TM) is specially formulated to fill scratches or pin holes caused by sanding or body fillers to form a strong corrosion barrier. It is a multi-purpose product, and can be used on metal, fiberglass, masonry, wood and most plastic surfaces. It is ideal for automotive, marine, aviation, home, farm, and industrial use.

  • Withstands temps up to 200°F
  • Interior or exterior plastics
  • Will not flake, chip or peel
  • Fit type: Universal Fit

OxGord Brake Caliper Paint Kit - High Heat 980-Degree F, Two-Part Gloss Paint with Cleaning Spray and Brush, Black Finish

OxGord

Based on 65 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Using OxGord’s Brake Caliper Paint Kit, you can now re-paint the caliper without removing it; plus, there’s no need to apply a primer. The brake caliper paint kit can withstand temperatures up to 980 degrees Fahrenheit. Not only will your brake calipers look like new, but the paint won’t peel, chip or crack. What are you waiting for? Hurry up and give your brake caliper a brand new bright shine today!

  • UNIVERSAL USE: OxGord’s brake caliper will work great with all motor vehicles, including high performance.
  • LONG-LASTING: A high heat resistance gloss that can handle up to 980 degrees Fahrenheit and won’t peel, chip, or crack.
  • TWO PART EPOXY SYSTEM: Approximately 3.5 ounces of paint & 0.5 ounces of reactor for a grand total of 4.0 ounces. This is enough for four calipers or two drums.
  • EASY TO USE: Simply paint directly onto your caliper. This item does NOT require a primer, and the brake caliper doesn’t need to be removed.
  • COMPLETE KIT: The brake caliper paint kit is fully stocked with gloss caliper paint for four calipers, reactor, cleaning spray, application brush, stirrer, and instructions.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this kit self leveling like the G2 product
Answer: Mine have been painted for 2 years as of July 2015, and have no chips or defects, etc. Just be sure to clean the crap out of them before you paint them and do multiple coats if possible. I think that I did two coats on the whole caliper and an additional on the exterior which you see from the road.
Question: Existing calipers need touch up. Will this work over existing red stock calipers
Answer: dont waste ur time n money does not do anything for you .
Question: I love the temp rating. can this be used on a commercial grade wood bbq/smoker for lettering only
Answer: Dont waste ur time it doesnt do a thing for you waste of money .
Question: Is it glossy or should purchase additional clear coat
Answer: Dont know but its not what they claim . I took it never felt anything at all not worth time n money .

Vht High Temperature Engine Enamel Gm Satin Black 11 Oz. Aerosol - Lot of 6

VHT

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EZ Touch Conical Nozzle.

  • Maximum Heat Dissipation And Durability
  • Ceramic Resins Resist Heat Up To 550 F
  • Dry To Touch In 30 Minutes / Handle In 1 Hour
  • Resistant To Oil And Other Automotive Fluids
  • Will Not Blister/Flake/Crack/Peel

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