What is 2K clearcoat and its differences

A 2K clearcoat is a two-component automotive clearcoat system that consists of a base and an activator. The term “2K” refers to the two components that are mixed together prior to application. This type of clearcoat is commonly used in automotive refinishing to provide a high-gloss and durable finish to a vehicle’s paint job.

The main difference between 2K clearcoats is the level of gloss and durability they offer. There are three main types of 2K clearcoats:

  1. High-Solid Clearcoat: This type of clearcoat has a high solids content and provides a very high gloss finish. It is also very durable and resistant to scratches and other types of damage. This type of clearcoat is typically used on high-end vehicles or for show cars.
  2. Medium-Solid Clearcoat: This type of clearcoat has a slightly lower solids content than high-solid clearcoats, but still provides a good level of gloss and durability. It is often used on mid-range vehicles and for general automotive refinishing.
  3. Low-Solid Clearcoat: This type of clearcoat has a lower solids content than the other two types, which means it provides a lower level of gloss and durability. It is typically used on lower-end vehicles or for touch-up work.

Overall, the choice of 2K clearcoat will depend on the specific needs of the job and the level of gloss and durability desired. It’s important to select the appropriate type of clearcoat to ensure a high-quality and long-lasting finish.

We offer one of the best 2K clearcoat options 2025 Which is a high solids 2K spraymax, and has a very glossy finish.

2 thoughts on “2K Clearcoat and How is it Different?

  1. Avatar
    jd says:

    hi. i’m considering ordering the following kit:

    https://americantouchup.com/product/automotive-spray-paint-basecoat-spraymax-2k-clearcoat-kit/

    my question is, when i click my color code for my vehicle website displays “greige metallic”. as i understand nissan called this color code “pebble beach metallic”. are these the same color or is there an error somewhere. vehicle is 2007 altima color code C43.

    also what is the difference between your “regular” clear and the 2k clear as far as durability/longevity? i am ok with a decreased gloss as car is an old girl/daily driver and a low gloss may make the “refinishing” i’m doing under the shade tree a little more forgiving to errors and dust; but i don’t want to sacrifice the durability if it’s that significant forcing me to do this again in the future. thanks

    • Avatar
      AmericanTouchUp says:

      Hello! Thank you for your question. Many vehicle manufacturers will use the same color code, but they could have different names for marketing purposes however if the color code is the same, the color will be same despite the difference in the names.

      The regular or “1k” clear coat doesn’t include a hardener like the 2K’s. So this makes it the cheaper alternative and it does still hold up well to fading and keeping a shine, albeit it won’t outlast the 2K in most conditions. The 1K not having a hardener does keep the shelf life in the can extended to a few years of repeat use for small jobs. With the 2K option once its mixed, it will have to be used or the rest will be unusable and wasted. The 2K option, though more expensive, will have a much higher resistant to fading and shine loss.

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