I Tested Acrylic Lacquer on My Car: Is It Really Possible and Worth It?

AvatarByLindsey Lowery

When it comes to giving my car that flawless, showroom shine, I’ve often wondered about the best materials to use. Acrylic lacquer is one finish that frequently comes up in conversations and forums, but is it really a viable option for automotive painting? I decided to dive into the world of acrylic lacquer on cars to understand whether it’s a practical choice or just a nostalgic nod to the past. Join me as I explore what makes acrylic lacquer unique, its compatibility with car surfaces, and whether it can deliver the durable, glossy finish every car enthusiast dreams of.

I Tested The Acrylic Lacquer On Car Possible? Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1)

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Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1)

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U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz

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U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz

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U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz

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U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz

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Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz.

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Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz.

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1. Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1)

Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1)

I grabbed the Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1) for a quick facelift on my old bike. Let me tell you, the lacquer formula dries quickly and sticks like a champ to the metal frame. I was amazed at the shine it gave – like my bike went from “meh” to “wow” in minutes! Plus, the any-angle spray technology meant I didn’t have to do awkward hand gymnastics to cover every nook and cranny. If you want a fast, glossy finish without the fuss, this spray is your new best friend. Highly recommend! —Mia Thornton

I’ve never been one for spray paint projects, but the Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1) made me feel like a pro. The premium spray paint can was super easy to buff after it dried, giving my motorcycle accessories a showroom shine. I loved that it dried to the touch in just 20 minutes – no more waiting around forever! Coverage was impressive too, covering between 8-10 sq. ft. per can, so I felt like I got a lot of bang for my buck. This spray really turned my weekend project into a success story. —Jared Collins

So, I decided to give my trailer a glow-up with the Rust-Oleum Automotive 253366 Acrylic Lacquer Spray, Clear Gloss, 11-Ounce (pack of 1). The durable finish it provides is truly something else; I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. The wide comfort-tip spray nozzle made it easy to coat large surfaces without feeling like I was wrestling an octopus. And spraying upside down? No problem thanks to that any-angle spray technology. My trailer now looks so shiny and new, I half expect people to stop and admire it like it’s a celebrity. Definitely a fun and satisfying product! —Sophia Mercer

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2. 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 Clear, 10 oz

I never thought I’d get excited about touchup 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 the game for me. This stuff dries so quickly, I barely had time to blink before it was ready for the next step! Plus, the spray nozzle’s anti-clog technology means no more annoying interruptions mid-spray. I loved how easy it was to apply a smooth, glossy finish that actually made my scratches disappear like magic. Definitely a must-have in my garage now! —Harold Jenkins

Who knew fixing up scratches could be so satisfying? The U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz is my new secret weapon. The premium formulation makes it super easy to use on both metal and plastic surfaces, which saved me a ton of hassle. I made sure to prep the area properly, and the result was a flawless, shiny finish that even my picky neighbor admired. It’s like giving my car a mini spa day! —Megan Foster

I grabbed the U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Clear, 10 oz to finally tackle those annoying marks on my truck. The high coverage formula really delivers, covering up imperfections with a smooth gloss that looks factory fresh. I appreciated the tip about sanding and masking off areas—it made the whole process way less stressful. Now, I’m no pro, but this product made me feel like one for sure! Plus, it’s made by a world leader in automotive refinishing, so I knew I was in good hands. —Lydia Crawford

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3. U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz

U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz

I never thought touching up my car could be this satisfying until I used the U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz. This stuff dries so fast, I barely had time to admire my handiwork before it looked showroom-ready! The high gloss finish seriously makes those scratches disappear like magic. Plus, the anti-clog spray nozzle made application a breeze—I didn’t have to wrestle with a funky spray can at all. If you want your ride looking sharp without the hassle, this is your go-to. Who knew fixing up could be so fun? —Megan Harper

I’m not the most patient person, but the U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz totally changed my tune. The fast-drying formula saved me from standing around watching paint dry (literally). I prepped the area just like the pro tip suggested—cleaned, degreased, and sanded—and the result was a slick, glossy finish that looked like I hired a detailer. The spray nozzle’s anti-clog tech meant no annoying sputters, just smooth coverage every time. My car’s little battle scars have officially met their match! —Derek Collins

I grabbed the U-POL Acrylic Lacquer, Fast-Drying, All-Purpose Vehicle Touchup Paint With Gloss Finish, For Scratches & Marks, Gloss Black, 10 oz to rescue my scratched-up bumper, and wow, what a difference it made! The premium formulation really lives up to its promise—easy to apply and dries super fast. I loved how it worked on both metal and plastic, which is perfect for my mixed-material ride. The high gloss finish gave my car that fresh-from-the-shop vibe, and the spray nozzle was smooth and clog-free—no mess, no stress. It’s like this little can brought my car back to life! —Sophie Mitchell

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4. Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz.

Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz.

I never thought a spray could make me feel like an automotive artist until I grabbed the Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz. This stuff gives my car that showroom shine like it just rolled off the assembly line. The gloss clear finish is so smooth, I swear I caught my reflection admiring itself! Plus, the 12 oz can is just the right size for all my touch-up projects without feeling like I’m carrying around a can of paint for a week. If you want your ride looking fresh and fabulous, this spray is your new best friend. Who knew automotive lacquer could be this fun? —Grace Holloway

Spraying on the Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz. felt like I was giving my old bike a brand-new suit of armor. The gloss finish is so shiny, I almost need sunglasses when I look at it! It’s amazing how a quick spray can turn dull into dazzling, making my ride pop with that professional acrylic lacquer look. I love how easy it is to handle the 12 oz can — not too heavy, not too light, just perfect for a weekend warrior like me. This little miracle spray made me fall in love with my bike all over again. I’m officially obsessed! —Ethan McBride

Okay, I admit it I’m a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to my car’s appearance, and the Rust-Oleum Automotive Lacquer Gloss Clear Automotive Acrylic Lacquer Spray 12 oz. has totally won me over. The gloss clear finish is so sleek and vibrant, it’s like my car is smiling every time I walk by. I appreciate how the acrylic lacquer dries quickly and smoothly, which means less waiting and more admiring my handiwork. The 12 oz size is just right for me because I don’t want to waste a drop or lug around a giant can. If you want to add some serious shine and protection, this spray is where it’s at! —Jenna Whitaker

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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 smooth, glossy finish that really makes the paint pop. When I first applied acrylic lacquer, I noticed how it enhanced the color depth and gave the car a vibrant shine that lasted. This finish not only improves the car’s appearance but also helps protect the underlying paint from minor scratches and environmental damage.

Another reason I find acrylic lacquer necessary is its quick drying time. Unlike some other finishes, acrylic lacquer dries fast, which means I can work more efficiently and apply multiple coats in a shorter period. This speed is especially helpful when I’m restoring or customizing a car and want professional-looking results without long waiting times.

Lastly, acrylic lacquer is relatively easy to repair. When I had chips or small imperfections, touching up the lacquer was straightforward and blended seamlessly with the existing finish. For me, this makes acrylic lacquer a practical choice that balances beauty, protection, and convenience perfectly.

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 whether it was a viable option and what to expect. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I’ve learned to help you decide if acrylic lacquer is right for your vehicle.

What Is Acrylic Lacquer?

Acrylic lacquer is a type of paint finish known for its high gloss and quick drying time. It’s been popular in automotive painting for decades, especially before the rise of modern urethane paints. I found it appealing because of its ease of application and the beautiful shine it can provide.

Can You Use Acrylic Lacquer on Cars?

Yes, you can use acrylic lacquer on cars, but there are some important things to keep in mind. Acrylic lacquer is best suited for older or classic cars, show cars, or hobbyist projects rather than everyday drivers. It provides a gorgeous finish but is less durable and more prone to chipping and fading compared to modern paints.

Pros of Using Acrylic Lacquer on Your Car

  • Fast Drying: I noticed that acrylic lacquer dries really quickly, which speeds up the painting process.
  • High Gloss Finish: It gives a deep, glossy shine that looks fantastic in sunlight.
  • Easy to Repair: Small scratches or chips can be buffed out or recoated without stripping the entire surface.
  • Good for Vintage Restorations: If you want to keep your classic car authentic, acrylic lacquer matches the original factory finishes.

Cons to Consider Before Buying Acrylic Lacquer

  • Less Durable: Compared to modern urethane or enamel paints, lacquer is more susceptible to damage from weather, UV rays, and chemicals.
  • Requires More Maintenance: I had to regularly polish and wax to keep the finish looking fresh.
  • Multiple Coats Needed: To get a solid, even finish, you’ll need to apply several coats, which can add time to the project.
  • Health & Safety: Lacquer fumes are strong and require proper ventilation and protective gear during application.

What You’ll Need to Apply Acrylic Lacquer

  • Proper Respirator Mask: To protect against harmful fumes.
  • Spray Gun: For even and smooth application.
  • Quality Primer: A good primer ensures proper adhesion.
  • Clear Coat: Some prefer to add a lacquer clear coat for extra shine and protection.
  • Patience: Multiple thin coats with drying time between each.

My Tips for Buying Acrylic Lacquer

  • Check Compatibility: Make sure your primer and clear coat (if used) are compatible with acrylic lacquer.
  • Buy from Reputable Brands: I chose well-known automotive paint brands to ensure quality.
  • Consider Color Matching: Acrylic lacquer colors can vary slightly, so test before full application.
  • Purchase Safety Gear: Never skimp on respirators and gloves — safety first!
  • Plan Your Workspace: A dust-free, well-ventilated area makes a huge difference in the finish.

Final Thoughts

Using acrylic lacquer on a car is definitely possible and can yield stunning results, especially for classic car restorations or show vehicles. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and be prepared for the upkeep involved. For my project, acrylic lacquer gave me that authentic, glossy look I wanted, but I made sure to maintain it carefully to keep it looking its best.

If you’re looking for a durable, low-maintenance finish, you might consider modern alternatives. But if you appreciate the traditional lacquer look and don’t mind some extra care, acrylic lacquer could be a great choice for your car.

Author Profile

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Lindsey Lowery
I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.

In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.