Car painting is no longer a skill reserved only for professional auto body shops. In Nigeria today, many car owners and auto enthusiasts are embracing DIY car painting as a cost-effective way to restore faded vehicles, repair scratches, or simply give their cars a fresh, modern look. With the right tools, paints, and finishing products, you can achieve a showroom-quality result right in your garage. One of the most trusted brands in the Nigerian automotive refinishing market is KAPCI, known for its reliable base coat and clear coat systems.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about DIY car painting in Nigeria using KAPCI automotive paints, ensuring your finish is durable, glossy, and professional.
Why Choose KAPCI Paints for DIY Car Painting?
When it comes to auto refinishing products in Nigeria, KAPCI is widely recognized for:
- High-quality coverage—their base coats provide vibrant and even color layers.
- Durability—KAPCI clear coats protect against UV rays, harsh weather, and scratches.
- Easy application—designed for both professional workshops and DIY enthusiasts.
- Availability—KAPCI products are stocked by leading automotive paint dealers like Fidel Associates in Nigeria.
Materials You Will Need for DIY Car Painting
Before you start your DIY car painting project, ensure you have the following materials:
- KAPCI Base Coat (choose your preferred color).
- KAPCI Clear Coat for final finishing.
- Automotive primer (for bare metal or repair areas).
- Sandpapers (ranging from 400 to 2000 grit).
- Spray gun and compressor (or aerosol if using pre-filled cans).
- Masking tape and plastic sheets (for covering areas the paint shouldn’t get to).
- Safety gear: gloves, respirator mask, and goggles.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Your Car with KAPCI
1. Surface Preparation
- Wash and degrease the car thoroughly.
- Sand down old paint, scratches, or rusted areas using coarse sandpaper.
- Apply automotive body filler if necessary and smooth it out.
- Use fine-grit sandpaper (600–800) to create a smooth surface for primer adhesion.
- Mask off windows, trims, and areas not to be painted.
2. Priming the Car
- Apply 2–3 coats of primer using a spray gun.
- Allow each coat to dry, then lightly sand with 800–1000 grit sandpaper.
- Wipe clean with a tack cloth.
3. Applying KAPCI Base Coat
- Mix the base coat according to KAPCI’s technical guidelines.
- Spray evenly in thin layers to avoid runs and uneven patches.
- Allow 10–15 minutes of flash time between coats.
- Apply 2–3 coats until the surface is fully covered with even color.
4. Finishing with KAPCI Clear Coat
- Once the base coat is fully dry, apply 2–3 layers of KAPCI clear coat.
- Use steady, overlapping strokes for even coverage.
- The clear coat enhances gloss and provides a protective barrier against Nigeria’s tropical sun and heavy rains.
5. Polishing for a Professional Finish
- After the clear coat cures (usually 24–48 hours), wet sand with 1500–2000 grit sandpaper.
- Buff with polishing compound to achieve a deep gloss.
- Finish with wax for long-lasting shine and protection.
Tips for DIY Car Painting in Nigeria
- Work in a dust-free environment to avoid paint imperfections.
- Always wear protective gear for safety.
- Don’t rush drying times—patience leads to a factory-quality finish.
- Buy original KAPCI products from trusted Nigerian distributors to avoid counterfeits.
Cost of DIY Car Painting in Nigeria
Compared to professional auto spray shops, DIY car painting is budget-friendly.
Here’s a price budget for DIY car painting using KAPCI products in Nigeria:
KAPCI base coat prices in Nigeria typically range between ₦15,000 – ₦25,000 per liter (depending on the color).
KAPCI clear coat kits (clear + hardener) cost around ₦20,000 – ₦35,000.
Additional costs include primer, sandpaper, masking materials, and polishing compounds.
Overall, a DIY project can save you 30–50% of professional spraying costs while still delivering excellent results.
Where to get premium quality KAPCI paint for your DIY car painting project in Nigeria
Now that we’ve dealt with the question of what I need to know to execute my car’s repainting project at home, let’s solve the mystery of where to get high-quality paint for the job.
When it comes to the best dealers and suppliers of KAPCI paint in Nigeria, look no further than Fidel Associates. At Fidel Associates, we believe every vehicle deserves a glow, no matter its present state. That is why we provide you with every paint you need for your project, plus expert guidance.
If you live in Lagos State, you can visit our shop at 66 Clegg Street, Ojuelegba, Surulere, Lagos State, Nigeria.
If you live outside of Lagos, you can purchase your KAPCI paint by visiting our website, www.fidelassociate.com.
Email us: hello@fidelassociatw.com, info@fidelassociate.com.
You can also give us a call: +2347031189787, +2348084888855.
