The 8 Best Chassis Paints

Find the best chassis paint for your car or truck frame, and learn how to use it effectively.

The chassis or frame is your car or truck’s undercarriage and supporting structure. Due to its constant exposure to the elements, it is extremely susceptible to corrosion, scratches, nicks, cracks, and other types of damage. 

Fortunately, regular application of quality car and truck frame paint is a great way of dealing with this problem. Use this review catalog and buying guide to whittle down the best chassis paints on the market. Short on time? Here’s a quick rundown of our top picks.

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Best Chassis And Truck Frame Paint Reviews

Using a quality car and truck frame paint is important for keeping your beloved vehicle in the best shape possible; however, it’s not the only car fluid you should be using on a regular basis. Check out these other essential car products after completing this guide:

Keep reading for our list of highest-rated chassis paints…

1. Magnet Paint Co Chassis Saver

Magnet Paint is a household name in the world of high-performance specialty coatings, and their aptly-named Chassis Saver is our top choice for best car and truck frame paint.

Made from a moisture-curing polyurethane formula that both beautifies and protects your car while meeting the latest safety standards, the Magnet Paint Chassis Saver has garnered a solid reputation for its effectiveness at shielding a vehicle chassis against all types of damage.

The formula, which creates a strong and flexible bond, has unique rust removal qualities that allow it to be applied directly over rusted areas after less thorough surface preparation than required by other chassis paint.

It protects not only the vehicle’s frame and floorboard but also its trunk areas, firewalls, rocker panels, and under fenders, shielding them from damaging substances like rain, snow, dirt, and mud, and preventing chips, cracks, or peels.

The Magnet Paint Chassis Saver is remarkably potent and fast-acting, requiring only a single layer to get the job done and 3 to 4 hours to dry. 

Things we like

  • Very durable, forms a strong bond
  • Easy to apply
  • Easy to paint over
  • Affordable

What we don’t like

  • Only available in black
  • Prone to fading

Bottom Line 

The Magnet Paint Chassis Saver will be the best option for most people looking for a versatile and effective car and truck chassis paint. CHECK LATEST PRICE

 2. POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating

Although not our top pick for the best chassis paint, the POR-15 45404 Rust Preventative Coating is an excellent rust inhibitor that gives the Magnet Paint Chassis Saver a run for its money.

Its special chemical formula neutralizes rust and shields against  impacts, stains, and abrasion chemicals, bonding strongly to rusty, textured surfaces and forming a very hard and durable material once hardened.

The POR-15 is waterproof and highly heat-resistant, capable of withstanding temperatures of up to 450 Fahrenheit (232 celsius). It also doesn’t wrinkle or peel after application, thanks to its excellent adhesive properties,

Interestingly, its remarkable heat-resistance doesn’t make it impervious to the damaging effects of sunlight. Although the coating doesn’t break down when exposed to UV rays, its semi-gloss appearance will fade over time.

You can use the POR-15 45404 on the frame, as well as on bare metal parts and steel sliders. Even though it can be applied directly over rust, you would be wise to prepare the framework beforehand. 

Things we like

  • Very durable
  • Many color options
  • Heat-resistant paint
  • Waterproof

What we don’t like

  • Sunlight causes gloss appearance to fade
  • Can be difficult to open

Bottom Line 

The POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating is a premium product that delivers premium results for a very reasonable price. CHECK LATEST PRICE

3. KBS Coatings 4501 Gloss Black RustSeal

KBS Coatings is recognized globally for producing effective rust and corrosion-preventing paints, so it’s not surprising that the 4501 Gloss Black RustSeal delivers amazing sealing for vehicle chassis.

This car and truck frame paint hardens once it comes into contact with your car, not only stopping rust from spreading, but also preventing road salts, fluids, chemicals, and other damaging substances from seeping into and breaking down the chemical composition of metals.

Even more, it doesn’t chip, peel, scratch, or crack once hardened.

The 4501 Gloss Black RustSea is an extremely versatile paint that can be used on other rust-prone items other than a car or truck chassis, such as those in a home or farm setting. It’s also easy-to-use, inexpensive, and durable, with a single application lasting years.

One downside is that repeated or prolonged exposure to direct UV light will alter its color and sheen. Like the POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating, it is by no means intended for use as a final finish. 

Things we like

  • Very durable, long-lasting
  • Highly versatile
  • Easy-to-use
  • Inexpensive

What we don’t like

  • Sunlight causes color and shine to fade

Bottom Line 

The KBS Coatings RustSeal is one of the most durable, versatile, and cost-effective rust-resistant chassis paints on the market. CHECK LATEST PRICE

4. Dynatron 544 Dyna-Pro Paintable Rubberized Undercoating

If you’re looking for a solid undercoat for rust-proofing for your car or truck’s underbody, look no further than the Dynatron 544 Dyna-Pro. It offers protection for all weather conditions, including an entire winter season.

The fast-drying, highly-flexible coat forms an electromechanical barrier against rust, corrosion, scratches, chipping, abrasion, dirt, road salt, and other potential hazards. 

You also get an easy spray-on and brush application and a textured finish that you can paint over with any OEM paint. It even insulates the undercarriage from road noise, resulting in a quieter ride for both you and your passengers.

As good as the Dyna-Pro is, it’s not perfect. Its adhesion on greasy surfaces or older undercoats is not great, so you’ll have to go through the trouble of removing them before applying the solution. 

It’s also a bit pricey for a rubberized undercoat and has a short shelf life once opened.

Things we like

  • Excellent sealing, effectively resists corrosion and rust
  • Strong and durable
  • Sound-deadening properties
  • Easy-to-use

What we don’t like

  • Poor adhesion to greasy surfaces
  • Short shelf-life
  • Expensive

Bottom Line

The Dynatron 544 Dyna-Pro is a highly-flexible coating that combines easy application with excellent sealing and corrosion resistance. Its sound-deadening properties and ability to be refinished with any OEM paint are a bonus. CHECK LATEST PRICE

5. Rust Bullet RBA54 Automotive Rust Inhibitor Paint

We won’t fault anyone who picks the Rust Bullet Automotive Rust Inhibitor Paint as their best chassis paint. It’s an easy-to-use, high-value formula that’s rust-resistant, chip-resistant, mildly resistant to UV rays, and very effective at removing and preventing rust.

In addition to the chassis, it can be applied to a vehicle’s undercarriage, suspensions, and other such parts using anything from a brush or roll to a spray apparatus. 

The fact that it’s thinner and uses more metal than Rust Bullet’s Standard formula makes it easy to apply. And while you can theoretically apply it directly to the dedicated surface without first prepping it, we don’t recommend that you do.

There are two minor issues with the RBA54 Automotive Rust Inhibitor Paint. First, it’s very expensive; second, it has a short shelf life.

The paint will harden and become thicker if left unused for extended periods, morphing into a useless, gluey-like liquid. Try to use up your entire can of paint within a year.

Things we like

  • Both eliminates and prevents rust
  • Highly versatile
  • UV- and chip-resistant
  • Very easy-to-use

What we don’t like

  • Very expensive
  • Short shelf life

Bottom Line 

While expensive, few other products can match the Rust Bullet RBA54 Automotive Rust Inhibitor Paint’s ability to remove and prevent rust. CHECK LATEST PRICE 

6. 3M 03584 Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating

This special rubberized chassis and truck frame undercoating from 3M is all about achieving great results.

It delivers an appealing, long-lasting black protective coating with anti-rust and corrosion properties. It’s resistant to scratches, chipping, and abrasions.

3M’s rubberized coating also acts as a sound-insulator that significantly reduces road noise. Moreover, the formula has a no-run composition (no dripping or clumping) and comes in an aerosol spray dispenser, making for very easy and clean applications.

All of these properties come together to make this chassis and truck frame paint a great all-around solution for vehicle undercarriages, fenders, wheel wells, quarter panels, and much more. It can be used on cars, trucks, RVs, vans… you name it. 

As for downsides, it has an unpleasant smell when wet, and you’ll need several coats to achieve a proper seal.

Things we like

  • No-drip formula makes applications clean
  • Easy spray-on application
  • Sound-deadening properties
  • Versatile; can be used on various vehicles

What we don’t like

  • Unpleasant smell when wet
  • Requires multiple applications

Bottom Line

3M’s Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating is a sturdy, highly durable, and easy-to-apply solution for protecting the undercarriage of your car, truck, or RV against rust, corrosion, scratches, abrasions, and other damages. CHECK LATEST PRICE

7. Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection

Fluid Film’s best chassis paint is a durable, rust-preventive, and thixotropic lubricant that penetrates deeply into any metal base and doesn’t dry out. It’s so effective that even the aerospace and aircraft industries use it.

The formula is all-natural and, therefore, doesn’t contain any toxic chemicals. It provides protection against rust and corrosion; repels water, snow, ice, and other unwanted substances; and salvages severely corroded, frozen, and seized parts, such as nuts, bolts, and screws.

Ease-of-application is another plus, but some users might be put off by the liquid’s gooey consistency and strong odor.

Things we like

  • All-natural, non-toxic
  • Protects against moisture, grime
  • Repels water, snow, and ice
  • Easy-to-apply

What we don’t like

  • Gooey consistency
  • Strong odor

Bottom Line 

Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection is a no-nonsense, eco-friendly lubricant that will protect your car’s undercarriage for months on end. CHECK LATEST PRICE

8. Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Spray Paint

The Rust-Oleum ‘Stops Rust’ Spray Paint is a great solution for those who require a car and truck frame paint that comes in many different colors and can withstand high temperatures.

This special rubberized undercoating provides excellent, long-lasting protection against weather and corrosion. It doesn’t flake or chip, while a special spray apparatus makes it easy to apply.

It’s so versatile and durable that it can be applied to both the interior and exterior surface of metals, as well as to concrete, wood, masonry, and other materials.

Another big highlight has to be that there are many color variations to choose from. Unfortunately, the bottle is fairly small (you might need more than one), and it takes up to 4 hours to dry.

Things we like

  • Highly weather- and corrosion-resistant
  • Many color options
  • Works on a wide range of materials
  • Very durable

What we don’t like

  • Takes a while to dry
  • Bottles are rather small
  • Contains toxic chemicals

Bottom Line

The Rust-Oleum ‘Stops Rust’ Spray Paint is a rust-killer that you can have in other colors besides black. CHECK LATEST PRICE

Chassis Paint Buying Guide

This comprehensive buying guide provides a general overview of car and truck frame paints and highlights the factors you should consider when selecting the best chassis paint for your vehicle.

What Is Chassis Paint?

The chassis is your car or truck’s undercarriage and supporting structure. Its close proximity to the tires and the ground exposes it to road salt, water, dirt, and moisture, making it very prone to rust and corrosion, as well as nicks, scratches, cracks, and other types of damage.

Chassis and truck frame paint is a special type of coating that prevents water and air from reacting with a vehicle’s metal underparts, helping ward off rust and corrosion. 

It also beautifies the chassis to make it look more presentable and provides a layer of protection against external damage.

5 Reasons Why You Need Chassis Paint

There are many compelling reasons why you should use chassis paint for your car or truck frame. Let’s look at five key advantages.

1. Prevent rust and corrosion. The chassis is constantly exposed to external variables (dirt, rain, snow, mud, road salt, moisture, etc.), making it extremely susceptible to rust and corrosion. Applying chassis paint greatly addresses this issue.

2. Preserve value of vehicle. The resale value of a used car is mostly dependent on its condition, so it goes without saying that having a worn-out and rusty chassis will get you less money should you decide to sell your car or truck. Chassis paint helps preserve a vehicle’s value.

3. Minimize damage from accidents. Rust and corrosion weaken a vehicle’s chassis, compromising its structural integrity. If you want it to absorb the impact of a collision like it was designed to, and minimize the risk of serious damage or injury in the event of an accident, don’t wait to apply chassis paint to your vehicle’s frame.

4. Save money, cut your expenses. Chassis rust that isn’t treated can spread to other parts of the car (e.g. engine, driveshaft, transmission, gas tank), giving you other expensive problems to worry about. Save your money — give your car’s chassis a paint job.

5. Versatile, multi-purpose use. Chassis paint is a very versatile product. In addition to beautifying and protecting your car or truck frame, it can be used to decorate and protect various areas of your home, garage, or workshop. The fact that these paints don’t require catalyzers and activators makes them very economical. 

Types Of Chassis And Truck Frame Paint

There are two major classifications of paint: Water-based paints and solvent-based paints.

Water-Based Paints 

These types of paint have water as their solvent. Everything from the fillers and pigments to the binders is dissolved in water.

Water-based paints contain a low level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them very safe-to-use and environmentally-friendly. They also have little to no smell, are easy-to-clean, and contrary to the old idiom “It’s like watching paint dry,” don’t take long to dry.

Finally, these paints are very versatile in their application. Not only can they be used on your vehicle chassis, but they are also suitable for surfaces in or around your home. 

The only downside is that they tend to be thinner than solvent-based paints and, therefore, less durable.

Solvent-Based Paints

Solvent-based paints contain compounds such as lacquer and urethane as their underlying solvents. Once dried, these compounds leave behind a thick, hard, and durable finish that easily resists nicks, scratches, and abrasions. 

Thanks to their thicker nature, solvent-based coatings are generally more resistant to extreme weather conditions than water-based paints and hide imperfections on surfaces better. However, they take longer to dry.

Unfortunately, the VOC in these paints can be powerful enough to cause adverse health effects, such as frequent headaches, difficulties breathing, and rashes. They also emit an overwhelming odor.

Top Chassis And Truck Frame Paint Brands

Of the many car and truck chassis paint brands on the market, KBS Coatings, Rust Bullet, POR 15, Magnet Paints, and Fluid Film are the most renowned.

KBS Coatings

KBS Coatings was founded in the heartland of America by a group of experts with over 85 years of collective experience in material science formulation and manufacturing of coatings. The KBS Coatings 4501 Gloss Black RustSeal is widely regarded as one of the top five best chassis paints on the market.

Rust Bullet 

Founded in 2001, Rust Bullet is a coatings manufacturer specializing in rust inhibitive and corrosion control coatings. Its products, including the very popular Rust Bullet Automotive Rust Inhibitor Paint, have been government-approved for a wide variety of applications.

POR 15 

Por15 has been innovating in the paint and coatings industry for over 35 years and produces a wide range of quality products for industrial, automotive, marine, and agriculture applications. The POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating is the very definition of a high-quality car and truck frame paint.

Magnet Paints

Magnet Paints has been a powerhouse in the fleet and industrial refinishing markets for over 100 years. The company’s high-performance specialty coatings are lauded by mechanics, engineers, and do-it-yourselfers alike, especially the Magnet Paint Co Chassis Saver.

Fluid Film

Fluid Film is an easy-use coating that was invented in the 1940s to protect U.S. navy ships from rust and corrosion during World War 2. The brand has since grown to include a range of similar products developed for industrial, military, and commercial use. The Fluid Film 1 Gallon Rust Inhibitor is a very popular choice.

How To Choose The Best Chassis Paint

Finding the best chassis and truck frame paint for your vehicle requires evaluating the following seven criteria:

1. VOC Compliance

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a large group of chemicals emitted by many products, including paints. Many of them are toxic and can cause serious health issues, such as skin reactions, constant headaches, dizziness, and fatigue, so the last thing you want is to be exposed to them over long periods.

Fortunately, VOC is regulated by many government agencies around the world, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the U.S. You will be safest using a car and truck frame paint that is VOC-compliant. 

Lead can also be hazardous, so avoid chassis paints that contain the material.

2. Solvent vs. Water-Based Truck Frame Paint

You’ll have to decide whether you need a water- or solvent-based paint, as each has advantages and disadvantages.

Because water-based paints contain water as the solvent, they are safer to use, eco-friendly, easy on the nose, and quick-drying. These paints are suitable for nearly every application, be it in the home, in the garage or workshop, or outdoors.

Solvent-based paints, on the other hand, utilize volatile organic compounds as solvents. Although this allows them to deliver a thicker, more durable coating that better resists damage and extreme temperatures, it gives them an overpowering smell and makes them potential health hazards. 

Solvent-based chassis and truck frame paints have fallen out of favor due to their strong odor and toxic ingredients, but they still have some use. This paint type is ideal for exterior coatings, especially in areas exposed to a lot of dirt and frequent temperature changes.

3. Single Stage Paint Vs. Two-Stage Paint

Single-stage paint is a 2-in-1 formulation that includes both base coat and clear coat. Not only does applying two good coats at once save time, but it’s also more cost-effective than buying a base coat and clear coat separately.

The problem with single-stage paint is that combining the base and clear coat in one formula can dilute the effectiveness of each coat. Two-stage paints require you to buy and apply both coats separately, but they tend to be more durable.

4. Durability, Bonding

Not only should your chassis paint last for a very long time, but it shouldn’t peel, chip, scratch, or even fade with the regular use of your vehicle.

The paint should be absorbable by the vehicle frame and form a strong, inseparable bond after drying.

It is to be noted that, in addition to the quality of the product, bond formation is also determined by how the paint is applied. We discuss how to properly paint a car and truck frame in a later section.

5. Extra Features

Not all chassis and truck frame paints have the same properties or capabilities. Most perform well in some areas and less so in others. Even the best chassis paint has shortcomings.

Always consider the advantages and disadvantages of the paint you’re considering and make sure it’s suitable for your specific needs. Live in a humid locale? Go with one that can withstand humidity. Plan to work with hot surfaces? Opt for heat-resistant paint. 

Ditto for UV-resistance for areas that are always sunny.

Bear in mind that factors such as the density of the paint and weather conditions affect the number of layers you’ll need to apply, and make sure that any extra features that come with the paint don’t compromise its ability to protect against rust and corrosion.

6. Volume

Know the measurement of your car or truck frame so that you buy an adequate amount of chassis paint.

You don’t need a completely exact quantity, since you may need several coatings of the paint. However, having a good estimate of how much you need will help ensure you don’t buy too much or too little.

7. Price And Brand

It pays not to be stingy. Many of the best chassis and truck frame paints come from reputable brands that often charge a higher price. These products can be a great value if they deliver unparalleled results.

However, as you probably already know, price doesn’t always get you a higher quality. There are some low-budget products that deliver the same results as their more expensive counterparts, if not better.

Regardless of who makes the product, always look for one with a warranty (the longer the better).

How to Paint A Truck Frame

Best chassis paint being applied to rusted truck frame

Painting a car or truck frame is a surprisingly straightforward process, but it requires time and patience. You must carefully apply the paint to ensure it protects your chassis from road and elemental hazards, especially rust and corrosion.

The following steps will help you do the job right.

Step 1. Clean And Degrease

A clean surface allows the chassis paint to bond correctly, so the process starts with cleaning the frame. 

To do this, you’ll have to place the vehicle on a lift to get access to its undercarriage, remove its wheels and any other components that block rusted areas, remove areas or components that need to be replaced, and scrape off all the rusted parts.

Once that’s done, you can pressure wash the areas that need painting before degreasing. 

Step 2. Remove Scaling

After the paint is applied, give it a few days to dry out. Then use a ball-peen hammer to break away any soft areas where scaling has developed, making sure to use sufficient force to remove loose material without causing any damage to your vehicle.

Step 3. Grind Away Rust

Grind away any rust you see using an air tool and air compressor. Make sure the air tool actually makes sanding down the surface easier for you.

An abrasive pad, eye protection, and a cartridge air filter mask are a must. Rust and dust particles can cause serious health issues.

Step 4. Applying Rust Converter

Unlike a rust remover, a rust converter penetrates and mixes chemically with rust to create a harmless black substance that is more resistant to moisture, protects the surface from further corrosion, and can be painted over. It basically transforms into a protective coating.

Using a paintbrush and latex gloves, apply the converter to the rusted areas you wish to convert and protect.

Step 5. Degrease And Clean Again

Using a rush converter requires that you prep the car once more before a primer can be applied. You’ll have to re-clean the surface to remove any resultant dust, grease, or residue, which can be done by using a damp cloth with a grease remover and wax.

Step 6. Prevent Overspray

Take any necessary measures to prevent paint from hitting parts you don’t want to paint. Using tape, paper, or even a small garbage bag to cover the areas you want to avoid usually does the trick.

Step 7. Apply The Paint

With the preparation process complete, it’s time to apply the chassis paint. Make sure to protect your skin from dangerous chemicals when painting, and take your time to ensure you achieve proper surface saturation.

Epoxy Coating As A Chassis Paint Alternative

Epoxy coating is comprised of two liquid components — epoxy resin and hardener — that chemically react to create a tough, durable, and solvent-resistant finish that can be applied to a wide variety of materials and surfaces. When used on a vehicle’s frame, it forms a hard and durable seal that protects against moisture, rust, abrasions, spills, grease, stains, etc.

Just like chassis and truck frame paint, thoroughly cleaning and preparing the frame before applying the coating will help you achieve a smoother, more protective finish.

While epoxy coating is sometimes used as a chassis paint substitute, it’s most effective when used together with it. The solution can serve as a buffer that improves the adherence of chassis paint to your vehicle’s frame.

It must be noted that epoxy coating is not paint. Instead of drying when applied, the mix will cure. You must wait until it completely cures before applying any chassis paint.

Epoxy coating is not mandatory — using a high-quality car and truck frame paint, rust preventative, and rust converter should provide your vehicle’s chassis with all the protection it needs. However, tossing it into the mix will provide a better foundation for your chosen chassis paint, as well as another layer of protection for your car or truck frame.

Chassis Paint FAQs And Answers

Best Chassis paint FAQs and answers

Want to know more about chassis and truck frame paint? The answers to these frequently asked questions provide more insight into what they’re all about and how you can find the right one for your vehicle coating projects.

What Is The Best Truck Frame Paint?

The Magnet Paint Chassis Saver, POR-15 Rust Preventive Paint, and KBS Coatings Gloss Black RustSeal are three of the best car and truck frame paints for long-term rust and corrosion prevention. Brands such as Rust Bullet, Fluid Film, and 3M also offer quality chassis paints.

How Long Do Chassis Paint Last After Application?

This will depend on a number of factors, including the quality of the paint, environmental conditions, and the preparation process. For one thing, overapplication and/or exposure of the paint to direct sunlight for a long duration can cause flaking and bubbling.

Regardless, the best chassis paints should be able to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years if applied properly.

Should I Prepare The Car Or Truck Frame Before Painting it?

While it’s not always necessary that you prep the frame of your vehicle before painting it (follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions), it always helps to do so. Sanding, cleaning, and applying an anti-rust formula to the frame often result in a much smoother finish and a longer lifespan.

Can I Paint Over The Truck Frame’s Underbody Paint?

Yes. However, make sure the underbody paint is dry before painting over it. Moreover, while prepping the frame isn’t necessary, taking some time to do a quick scuff sanding will improve adhesion.

How Long Does Chassis Paint Take To Dry?

Depending on the temperature, humidity, and the type of chassis paint you’re working with, it can take anywhere from 3 hours to several days for the paint to dry. It takes longer for paint to dry in humid weather conditions than drier ones, and water-based solutions dry much quicker than solvent-based ones.

Final Thought

Finding a quality car and truck frame paint can seem like a daunting task considering all the great and not-so-great options out there; however, with the right information and some patience, you will find the right one for your vehicle.

The Magnet Paint Chassis Saver is our choice for the best chassis paint due to its efficiency and versatility, specifically its ability to act as both a beautifying and rust-prevention paint. For other superb long-term rust prevention solutions, consider the POR-15 Rust Preventive Paint and KBS Coatings Gloss Black RustSeal.