There’s no need to run to the auto shop for every scratch, scrape, gash, or graze on your vehicle. Maybe it’s time to invest in the best air compressor for painting cars instead. Who knows, you might end up trying to create your own designs for your car too?
Before you can start painting your car, make sure to prep and prime first. The vehicle should have a smooth base so clean the surface first and then begin to sand. Don’t forget to use tape for your painting project, if needed (for covering windows or making designs). You can then spray paint your vehicle using an air compressor. Here are some models you can check out:
Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars: DEWALT
DEWALT has been manufacturing machines as early as 1922. Throughout the decades, the company continued to create and deliver high-quality power tools and machines to boost productivity and also become solutions to different types of work. You can expect superior quality and performance from the DEWALT 20-gallon air compressor.
This unit can deliver a maximum pressure of 155 PSI. For ease of use in your garage or outdoor space, this air compressor comes with 2 pneumatic tires. You’ll also be able to handle this unit without much complication as it comes with working pressure gauges and a quick-set regulator as well as an on and off switch.
Another good thing about the DEWALT air compressor is it has a dual voltage motor. This means you can use it on a 120 voltage outlet with the possibility to convert it to a 240 voltage application.
Best Budget-Friendly Compressor for Painting Cars: Porter-Cable
It’s no secret that air compressors can cost quite a lot. But that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank to get something that you can use. The Porter-Cable Pancake Compressor does the job at a pocket-friendly price. This 6-gallon unit comes with rubber feet for stability and also has a water drain valve.
The Porter-Cable Pancake Compressor delivers a maximum pressure of 150 PSI and runs on a 120V motor. The durable pump means maintenance isn’t needed and can ensure a long-running life. Weighing only 30lbs, it’s easy to transport the Porter-Cable Pancake, so you can do paint jobs in different locations.
Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars at Home: California Air Tools
Do you plan on doing your car repairs or designing at home? You can with California Air Tools Air Compressor. Not only is this unit ultra-quiet (only 56 dB—conversations in restaurants are louder at 60 dB) but it also has a small footprint. You can easily find a spot in your garage for this compressor.
Moving around with the California Air Tools Air Compressor is an easy feat as it is only 29lbs. And since this compressor does not require oil and runs on electricity, maintenance is significantly lower. This compressor may be small and only has a gallon tank but it can deliver a maximum pressure of 120 PSI.
Best Portable Air Compressor for Painting Cars: DEWALT
DEWALT truly is a reliable brand when it comes to power tools and machines, including air compressors. What’s good about the DEWALT Cordless air compressor is it has the capability to run on a battery. Now, that is a very portable air compressor.
The DEWALT Cordless air compressor has an oil-free pump and a brushless motor. It can handle 2 gallons of air yet only weighs 21.5lbs. This unit has a maximum pressure of 135 PSI yet its operational noise is only at 79 dB. The cordless air compressor is made in the US and even comes with a heavy-duty roll cage for durability.
Best Air Compressor for Spray Painting Cars: 2-Stage Air Compressor Campbell Hausfeld
When it comes to spray painting cars, you need a lot of air and a lot of pressure. This is especially needed for larger projects. Maybe you need to repair an entire door or design the whole hood? The Campbell Hausfeld Compressor is up for the job.
What’s different with this unit is it is a 2-stage air compressor. This means the air is compressed twice, which enables the unit to deliver more pressure. The Campbell Hausfeld compressor has a maximum pressure of 175 PSI. and a capacity of 60 gallons.
Some of the benefits of the 2-stage air compressor include longer running time and longer unit life. You can also expect the Campbell Hausel compressor to have a quicker recovery and reduce the chances of overheating.
Air Compressor Considerations
When choosing the right air compressor, it may be a bit overwhelming at first. To help you narrow down your choices and finally pinpoint the right one, consider the following:
Size of Project
How big is your project? Will you be covering up a small ding on the door? Maybe you want to paint the trunk’s door? Of course, for smaller projects and DIYs, you can settle for air compressors that have smaller tank capacities. Go for large tanks and more pressure if you need to spray paint big areas.
Space
Air compressors with big capacities will require a lot of space. So, that is one thing you need to keep in mind. Do you have the right storage inside your home, workspace, or garage for it? You can’t just leave it outside your house. Air compressors may be heavy but they can cost a lot.
Sound
Check out the sound or noise levels that the air compressor produces. If you live in an apartment or semi-detached house, you don’t want to end up bothering your neighbors. Now, if you live alone with no neighbors in sight, then you don’t really have to worry about this one unless you have a problem with the noise.
Conclusion
For painting cars with an air compressor, always start small. You don’t want to be overwhelmed by taking on huge projects or serious damages at once.
Just like with other painting projects, you don’t paint immediately on the canvas. You have to start on a piece of scratch paper. Take time to practice and be sure to follow the guides and read the manuals of the air compressors before using them.
Did you find our guide on the best air compressor for painting cars useful? Then check out our other posts, such as the best art supplies for beginners or the best art desk! Thank you for reading!