Choosing a paint sprayer for painting a car

Spray Gun Selection Guide – Complete guide for hobbyists and professionals

Painting a car with a spray gun doesn’t require a professional booth, but a great result does require the right tools, the right technique and a suitable paint system. In this guide we cover everything you need to consider when choosing a spray gun for automotive refinishing — whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional.

Choosing a spray gun can feel overwhelming — there are many models, technologies and nozzle sizes. The right choice is crucial because it directly affects finish quality and how smoothly the work goes. The wrong gun may lead to uneven finish, runs or poor coverage.

This guide helps you understand the differences between spray guns and pick the model that fits your needs. We explain gun types, technologies, nozzle sizes and the essential accessories for a successful project. You’ll also find tips on maintenance and cleaning to keep your gear in top shape.

From Automaalit.net you’ll find quality spray guns and accessories for all refinishing tasks. We’ve also included recommendations for different use cases so you can confidently choose the best option.

What is a spray gun and how does it work?

Basic principle

A spray gun atomizes paint into a fine mist and lays it evenly onto the surface. Most guns used in automotive refinishing are air‑powered: compressed air mixes with the paint and breaks it into droplets. This produces a smooth, professional finish that’s hard to achieve with brushes or rollers.

The main components are:

• Paint cup for holding material
• Nozzle where paint and air exit
• Needle controlling paint flow
• Trigger for starting/stopping the spray
• Adjustment knobs for paint flow, airflow and fan pattern

When you pull the trigger, air flows through the gun and draws paint from the cup. Paint and air mix in the gun and are sprayed through the nozzle. With the controls you can tune paint volume, fan shape and atomization.
 

Why a spray gun beats traditional methods

Spraying offers several advantages:

Uniform, high‑quality finish — Paint is applied very evenly, reducing spatter and runs. The result is a smooth, professional surface with no brush marks.

Faster coverage — Large panels can be coated far quicker than with a brush or roller; especially valuable when painting an entire car.

Versatility — Works on many materials and shapes, and makes it easy to reach tight areas and edges.

Controlled film build — Achieving an even film thickness is critical in refinishing and is simpler with a spray gun.

Compatible with many paint systems — Primers, basecoats, metallics and clear coats are designed to be sprayed.

A good spray gun won’t do the job for you, but it makes great results much easier. Chosen and used correctly, it’s indispensable.

Gun types and technologies

Automotive refinishing primarily uses two technologies: HVLP and LVLP. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right tool.
 

HVLP spray guns (High Volume Low Pressure)

HVLP is the most common today. The name means high air volume at low pressure. The technology reduces overspray and improves transfer efficiency.

Pros of HVLP:

• Less paint waste — Lower pressure minimizes overspray so more paint reaches the panel.
• Better control — High precision for detail work.
• Cleaner workspace — Less airborne mist around you.
• Greener choice — Less paint in the air.

Cons of HVLP:

• Needs a stronger compressor — High air volume puts demands on the compressor.
• Somewhat slower application — The low pressure can make application slower.

From Automaalit.net you’ll find quality HVLP guns such as Sagola 3300 GTO CAR (HVLP) 1.3mm, a great professional choice. The Sagola Mini Xtreme
1.0mm HVLP is also popular for fine detail work.
 

LVLP spray guns (Low Volume Low Pressure)

LVLP is a newer approach that uses less air while keeping pressure low — ideal when you run a smaller compressor.

Pros of LVLP:

• Works with smaller compressors — Lower air demand.
• Efficient transfer — High transfer efficiency reduces waste.
• Good control — Comparable feel to HVLP.
• Fast application — Often quicker than HVLP.

Cons of LVLP:

• Less common — Fewer models on the market.
• Can reward experience — Some guns need a practiced hand for the best results.
   

Air‑powered vs. electric spray guns

Automotive work is almost always done with air‑powered guns, though electric units exist. Here’s how they differ.

Air‑powered guns:

• Better finish — Typically smoother, more professional results.
• More adjustments — Easier to fine‑tune for precision work.
• Long service life — Quality guns last for years with proper care.
• Require a compressor — Adds cost and space requirements.

Electric guns:

• Easy to get started — No compressor needed.
• Lower initial cost — Fewer components to buy.
• Limited scope — Best for small projects and hobby use.
• Fewer adjustments — Less fine control than air guns.

For professional‑grade results we recommend air‑powered HVLP or LVLP guns. Explore our air tools at Automaalit.net.

Choose a spray gun by use case

Different stages call for different guns. Matching the gun to the task is key to a high‑quality result.
 

Primer guns

Primers are thicker and contain more solids than basecoats. You need a gun that can handle higher viscosity and still lay down a smooth coat. There are also many wet‑on‑wet primers with higher viscosity — often paired with smaller nozzles.

What matters for primer guns:

• Nozzle size — Typically 1.8–2.0 mm to flow thicker materials.
• Robust build — Withstands the load from heavy products.
• Simpler adjustments — Less fine‑tuning than for basecoat.

Great options at Automaalit.net include Sagola Classic Pro XD 2.00mm and Sagola Classic Pro XD 1.8mm. For thinner primer types, consider Sagola 3300 GTO (EVO) 1.3mm.
 

Basecoat and metallic guns

Basecoats — especially metallics — demand a gun that atomizes finely and produces a very even film. Precision matters.

What matters for basecoat guns:

• Smaller nozzle — Typically 1.3–1.5 mm for a finer mist.
• Fine adjustments — Accurate control over paint, air and fan shape.
• HVLP technology — Reduces waste and improves uniformity.

Recommended picks: Sagola 3300 GTO CAR (HVLP) 1.3mm or Sagola Classic Pro XD 1.4mm. For professional use, also consider the DeVilbiss DV1 — state‑of‑the‑art for basecoats.
 

Clear coat guns

Clear coat protects the finish and adds gloss. You need extremely even atomization for a flawless, high‑gloss surface.

What matters for clear coat guns:

• Medium nozzle — Typically 1.3–1.4 mm.
• Excellent atomization — For a mirror‑like finish.
• Precise adjustment — To dial in flow and fan.

The same guns used for basecoats often work for clear, but you’ll get standout results with the Sagola 3300 GTO CAR (HVLP) 1.3mm. The DeVilbiss FLG‑5 is another solid choice.
 

Detail work with airbrush

Airbrush (”pen” guns) are designed for high‑precision tasks — ideal for small repairs, details and spot repairs.

What matters for airbrush:

• Very small nozzle — Usually 0.3–0.8 mm for extreme precision.
• Small and light — Easy to handle accurately.
• Small paint cup — Optimized for small jobs.

For details and small touch‑ups, we recommend Sagola Xtech 400 0.3mm.

Choosing the right gun for the task is step one. Next, let’s look at nozzle size and how to pick the right one.

Nozzle size: why it matters and how to choose

Nozzle size heavily influences results. The best choice depends on paint type, surface and the finish you want.
 

Common sizes and where to use them

Nozzles are measured in millimetres, typically from 0.3 up to 2.5 mm. Size affects how much paint flows and how fine the atomization is.

Typical sizes and use cases:

Nozzle size	Use case	Paint type
0.3–0.8 mm	Details, small repairs, precision work	Thin paints, touch‑up
1.0–1.2 mm	Clear coat, thin basecoat	Clear coat, thin basecoat
1.3–1.4 mm	Basecoat, metallics, clear coat	Basecoat, metallic, clear
1.5–1.8 mm	Heavier basecoat, primer	Primer, filler
1.8–2.5 mm	Thick primer, filler, textured materials	High‑build primer, filler

In the Sagola Classic Pro XD range you’ll find 1.4 mm, 1.8 mm and 2.0 mm versions — pick what suits your job.
 

How to choose the right size for different paints

Too small a nozzle with thick paint causes clogs and a rough finish; too large a nozzle with thin paint leads to runs and wasted material.

Guidelines:

Clear coat:

• Most clears work best with 1.2–1.4 mm.
• Thinner clears: 1.2–1.3 mm
• Heavier clears: 1.3–1.4 mm
• Recommended gun: Sagola 3300 GTO CAR (HVLP) 1.3mm.

Basecoat and metallics:

• Most basecoats run best with 1.3–1.4 mm.
• Thinner basecoats: 1.3 mm
• Heavier basecoats: 1.4 mm
• Metallics: 1.3–1.4 mm (follow the paint maker’s advice)
• Recommended gun: Sagola Classic Pro XD 1.4mm.

Primer and filler:

• Thicker materials need larger nozzles.
• Thinner primers: 1.5–1.8 mm
• High‑build primers and fillers: 1.8–2.0 mm
• Recommended: Sagola Classic Pro XD 1.8mm or Sagola Classic Pro XD 2.00mm.

Wet‑on‑wet primers:

• Often pair well with smaller nozzles.
• 1.3–1.4 mm gives an even result.
• Recommended: Sagola 3300 GTO EVO 1.3mm.

Details and small touch‑ups:

• High precision needs small nozzles.
• Details and small repairs: 0.3–0.8 mm
• Recommended: Sagola Xtech 400 0.3mm.
   

Tips for selecting nozzle size:

1. Check the paint manufacturer’s recommendations — They usually specify a range.
2. Consider viscosity — Thicker paint → larger nozzle.
3. Think about the panel — Large, flat areas can use larger sizes; details need smaller.
4. Own more than one gun if needed — Professionals often keep several sizes for different stages.
5. Use interchangeable nozzle kits — Some models accept swap‑in needle/nozzle sets.

Choosing the right nozzle is a key factor. Automaalit.net offers many guns in multiple sizes to match your work.

Essential accessories

A quality spray gun is only part of the equation. The right accessories make the process smoother and the finish better.
 

Compressors and air pressure

An air‑powered spray gun needs a compressor with enough capacity. If the compressor is undersized, you’ll get an unstable pattern and poor results.

What to look for in a compressor:

• Air delivery (l/min or CFM) — The most important spec. Check your gun’s requirement and make sure the compressor can deliver at least that much.
  • HVLP guns typically need 250–400 l/min (9–14 CFM)
  • LVLP guns often work with 200–300 l/min (7–11 CFM)
• Tank size — A larger tank evens out pressure and allows longer continuous spraying.
  • Small jobs: 24–50 litres
  • Bigger projects: at least 50–100 litres
• Maximum pressure — Aim for at least ~8 bar / 116 PSI.
• Oil‑free vs oil‑lubricated — Oil‑lubricated tends to be quieter and longer‑lived but needs more service; oil‑free is simpler but often noisier.

Setting the pressure:

Correct pressure is critical. Too high = overspray and waste; too low = uneven finish.

• Follow the gun maker’s recommended working pressure (HVLP often 2–3 bar / 29–44 PSI)
• Use a regulator and water separator between compressor and gun
• Adjust before painting and test on cardboard or a test panel
   

Cleaning and service tools

Regular cleaning and servicing ensures consistent performance and long life. You’ll find everything at Automaalit.net.

Must‑haves:

• Cleaning kit — Spray gun cleaning kit, 12 pcs with brushes and tools.
• Cleaning agent — APP Gun Cleaner Spray 400ml for quick clean‑ups. Cellulose thinner is efficient for multiple guns.
• Cleaning set — Kemtex – Spray gun cleaning set for deep service.
• Seal/packing set — Seals wear over time and should be replaced. For example, DeVilbiss FLG‑5 needle packing. Check your manual or ask the retailer.
   

Disposable cups and filters

Disposable cups and filters streamline the process and improve quality — less cleaning, cleaner paint.

Disposable cups:

Very convenient: they reduce cleaning and enable fast color changes. Automaalit.net offers several sizes:

• Profix disposable cup 750ml, 10pcs
• Profix disposable cup 500ml, 10pcs

You’ll need the right adapter for your gun. See our adapters for different brands:

• Profix cup adapter, DeVilbiss, 10
• Profix adapter, Iwata/Max‑air/Pro‑Tek/Sata 8
• Profix adapter e.g. Sagola 3300 GTO and Classic Pro XD

Filters:

Filters are essential for a top‑class finish. They remove contaminants and clumps that could clog the gun or ruin the surface.

• Filter for top‑cup guns 10mm — sits in the cup and stops debris.
• Paint strainers — Always strain your paint when filling the cup.
   

Other handy accessories

More tools that make painting easier and results better:

• Two‑gun spray holder — keeps guns organized and prevents tipping.
• Pneumatic couplings — Make sure you have the right fittings between compressor and gun:
  • Air coupling 1/4" female
  • Air coupling 1/4" male

The right accessories streamline your workflow and help deliver a better finish.

Maintenance and cleaning

Consistent maintenance and cleaning are essential for performance and long service life. A clean gun sprays evenly and reliably.
 

Why cleaning matters

Clean the gun after every session — it’s critical:

• Prevents clogging — Dried paint blocks the small channels and nozzle.
• Ensures even results — Contamination causes an uneven pattern.
• Extends service life — Less wear and fewer replacement parts.
• Saves money — A well‑maintained gun just works.
   

Step‑by‑step cleaning

Thorough cleaning has several steps — once you learn the routine, it’s quick. At Automaalit.net you’ll find kits like Cleaning kit, 12 pcs and APP Gun Cleaner Spray 400ml.
 

1. Immediate clean‑up after spraying

Right after you finish:

1. Empty leftover paint — Pour back into the can or dispose of properly.
2. Rinse the cup — With suitable thinner/cleaner.
3. Fill the cup partly with cleaner
4. Spray through — Into paper or a waste container until the stream runs clear.
5. Repeat if necessary — Until no color remains.

2. Disassembly and deep cleaning

After the quick clean‑up:

1. Remove the air cap — By hand or with the proper tool.
2. Remove the fluid nozzle — Using the correct tool.
3. Pull the needle — Pull the trigger back and remove the needle.
4. Remove cup and seals — Inspect the condition of the seals.
5. Clean all parts — With cleaner and appropriate brushes.
6. Inspect — Replace worn or damaged parts.
7. Dry thoroughly — With a lint‑free cloth or compressed air.

3. Reassembly

When dry:

1. Install the needle
2. Install the fluid nozzle
3. Install the air cap
4. Fit the cup and seals
5. Test the gun — With cleaner or just air.

4. Ongoing maintenance

Regular service keeps performance consistent:

1. Check seals — Replace worn packings.
2. Inspect nozzles — Replace worn parts.
3. Keep air passages clean — Ensure they’re open and free of debris.
    

Tips for efficient cleaning

• Use proper brushes — Different sizes for different parts; be gentle with nozzles.
• No metal tools in nozzles — They can cause damage. Use brushes or wooden picks.
• Soak stubborn parts — Let them sit in cleaner first.
• Wear gloves — Cleaners can be harsh on skin.
• Ventilate — Work in a well‑ventilated area and wear a respirator.
   

Common cleaning mistakes

• Skipping the clean‑up — Leads to clogs and malfunctions.
• Wrong cleaner — Can damage parts or leave residues.
• Too aggressive cleaning — Damages delicate needles and nozzles.
• Poor drying — Can cause rust or problems next time.
• Damaging seals — Rough disassembly/reassembly harms packings.

Regular, careful cleaning is a small effort with a big payoff: a reliable gun, an even spray pattern and long service life.

Frequently asked questions

Below are answers to common questions about spray guns and automotive refinishing — helping you avoid typical pitfalls.

Choosing a compressor

How do I know if my compressor suits my gun?

The key spec is air delivery (l/min or CFM). Check the gun’s requirement (manual/website) and compare to your compressor’s output.

• HVLP guns typically need 250–400 l/min (9–14 CFM)
• LVLP guns work with about 200–300 l/min (7–11 CFM)

Note: the stated max output isn’t the same as continuous output. Continuous is usually ~60–70% of max. Make sure your compressor’s continuous output exceeds the gun’s demand.

What size compressor do I need for car painting?

We recommend at least 300–400 l/min (10–14 CFM) and a tank of 50 litres or more. That will run most HVLP guns without issues.

Smaller jobs and spot repairs may be fine with less, but full resprays need more capacity. LVLP allows a smaller compressor.

Can I use the same compressor for primer and basecoat?

Yes — as long as it delivers enough air for both. Note that larger nozzles used for primer may need more air.
 

Typical problems and fixes

Uneven spray or the gun “spits”

Possible causes:

1. Clogged nozzle or needle — Clean thoroughly.
2. Loose fluid nozzle — Tighten properly.
3. Damaged nozzle or needle — Replace parts.
4. Paint too thick — Thin according to spec.
5. Air pressure too low — Increase pressure.
6. Damaged seal — Inspect and replace.

Too much paint or runs

Possible causes:

1. Nozzle too large — Switch to a smaller size.
2. Flow set too high — Reduce paint flow.
3. Paint too thin — Check viscosity.
4. Spraying too slowly — Increase your pass speed.
5. Holding the gun too close — Aim for ~15–20 cm from the panel.

No paint or too little paint

Possible causes:

1. Clogged nozzle — Clean thoroughly.
2. Nozzle too small — Use a larger size for thick materials.
3. Paint too thick — Thin according to spec.
4. Air pressure too low — Increase pressure.
5. Feed blockage — Make sure paint flows freely from the cup.

“Orange peel” texture

Possible causes:

1. Paint too thick — Thin according to spec.
2. Air pressure too low — Increase pressure.
3. Wrong distance — Keep ~15–20 cm from the surface.
4. Drying too fast — Use retarder or paint in cooler conditions.
5. Poor technique — Spray evenly and overlap passes correctly.
    

Storing your spray gun

How should I store the gun between sessions?

To extend service life:

1. Clean thoroughly — Make sure the gun is spotless before storage.
2. Lightly oil moving parts — A drop of gun oil goes a long way.
3. Store in a dry place — Moisture leads to corrosion.
4. Use the original box or a gun holder — A magnetic spray gun holder keeps things tidy and safe.
5. Protect the nozzle — Some painters leave a little cleaner in the gun to prevent seals drying out.

How long will a spray gun last?

A quality gun can last for many years — even decades — if properly maintained. Lifespan depends on:

1. Build quality — Brands like Sagola and DeVilbiss use durable materials.
2. Usage — Heavy use wears parts faster.
3. Maintenance — Regular service significantly extends life.
4. Environment — Clean working conditions reduce wear.

Can I use one gun for different paint systems?

Yes, but keep in mind:

1. Deep cleaning between systems — Especially when switching between solvent‑borne and water‑borne.
2. Correct nozzle size — Match the nozzle to the paint.
3. Seal compatibility — Some paints can damage certain seal materials; check compatibility.

Professionals often keep separate guns for primer, basecoat and clear coat — both for the best results and to reduce cleaning time.

Still have questions? Contact Automaalit.net customer service — we’re happy to help.
 

Summary

Choosing the right spray gun is essential for a successful paint job. This guide has covered gun types (HVLP and LVLP), nozzle sizes, use cases, accessories, and maintenance and cleaning. We also answered common questions and highlighted recommended models available at Automaalit.net.

A quality spray gun is an investment that pays off in better finishes and longer service life. Chosen wisely and maintained well, it’s an invaluable tool.

Explore quality spray guns and accessories at Automaalit.net. If you need help choosing, contact our customer service — we’re happy to help.

Happy painting!