Powder Coating – What Does It Take to Powder Coat a Car?
Powder Coating and Sand Blasting – What Does It Take to Powder Coat a Car?
If you're thinking about powder coating parts of your car and you're located in Salt Lake County, Utah County, Davis County, Weber County, or Cache County, it's important to understand exactly what goes into the process. At Full Blown Coatings, we specialize in both powder coating and sand blasting for automotive components. Whether you're restoring a classic car or customizing your ride, powder coating offers durability, protection, and a custom finish that paint simply can't match.
Why Powder Coat Car Parts?
Extreme Durability in Harsh Utah Conditions
Powder coating provides a resilient barrier against the elements. Unlike traditional liquid paint, powder coating is resistant to:
- Chipping and scratching
- UV radiation
- Corrosion from salt and moisture
With Utah's icy, salt-covered roads in winter and intense summer UV exposure, powder coating is the smart choice. A client from Layton brought in a set of steel bumpers that had rusted from just one winter. After we blasted and coated them in textured black, they were ready to face years of rough weather and off-road abuse.
Aesthetic Versatility
Powder coating allows for a wide range of finishes:
- Glossy, matte, or satin
- Metallic, candy, or textured
- Custom color matching
A recent project from Ogden involved powder coating a custom roll cage in a high-gloss safety orange to match the client’s Jeep build. The result was both functional and visually stunning.
Eco-Friendly Finish
Powder coating contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and generates minimal waste, making it safer for the environment and shop workers.
What Parts of a Car Can Be Powder Coated?
At Full Blown Coatings, we commonly coat:
- Wheels and rims
- Brake calipers
- Valve covers
- Suspension components
- Roll cages and frames
- Engine brackets and skid plates
- Bumpers and grilles
From show cars to off-road builds, powder coating can enhance both performance and appearance.
Step-by-Step: How Powder Coating Works
Step 1: Sand Blasting for Surface Prep
Proper surface prep is critical. We use abrasive blasting to remove old paint, rust, and grime. This creates a clean, textured surface for the powder to bond to.
We had one customer from Provo who tried DIY coating without blasting first—the finish started peeling after just a month. When they brought it to us, we sand blasted the parts correctly and applied a fresh coat that has held up flawlessly.
Step 2: Cleaning and Degassing
After blasting, parts are cleaned and pre-baked in an oven to release any gases or oils trapped inside the metal. Skipping this step can result in bubbling and flaking during curing.
Step 3: Powder Application
We use electrostatic guns to apply a dry powder that adheres evenly to every curve and corner of the part. The charged powder clings instantly, ensuring even coverage.
Step 4: Curing in an Industrial Oven
The parts are then baked at around 375-400°F for 15 to 20 minutes. This heat melts the powder into a smooth, continuous, and durable coating.
How Long Does It Take?
Most jobs are completed in 3–7 business days. Complex or multi-part jobs may take longer. We offer rush service for customers on tight deadlines.
We recently had a customer from Spanish Fork preparing a car for a SEMA event. We coated multiple suspension and engine components in a candy red finish with a clear top coat—all completed in just four days.
How Much Does It Cost?
Pricing depends on:
- Size and number of parts
- Condition and prep time
- Type of finish (standard, candy, metallic)
Examples:
- Wheels: $100–$200 each
- Valve covers: $75–$150
- Full suspension set: $300+
You get premium, lasting results for far less than replacing parts or repeatedly repainting.
Common Questions
Can you powder coat over chrome? Yes, but it requires complete removal of the chrome layer first. We use chemical stripping and aggressive blasting to prep the part properly.
Can you match factory colors? Yes. We have a vast inventory of stock and custom powders, and we can usually match most OEM colors.
Is powder coating safe for high-heat components? Yes, up to certain temperatures. We use special high-temp powders for parts like brake calipers and engine bay components.
Do you offer sand blasting only? Yes, we provide standalone blasting services for customers preparing for welding, painting, or custom fabrication.
Why Choose Full Blown Coatings?
We serve Salt Lake, Utah, Davis, Weber, and Cache Counties with full-service powder coating and sand blasting. Our state-of-the-art facility and experienced technicians ensure flawless results. From custom colors to industrial-grade prep, we treat every part with precision.
Final Thoughts
Powder coating automotive components is more than just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a smart investment in durability and protection. From initial blasting to final curing, Full Blown Coatings delivers quality you can see and toughness you can trust.
Ready to transform your ride? Contact Full Blown Coatings today for a quote or to schedule your project.