We can bet that you are here because your bike or car has some chrome parts and understandably so because there is something alluring about chrome.
That said; chrome tends to scratch and chip over time depending on the state of the roads you drive in and other factors.
If you are worried that your chrome bumper is losing its shine and making your car look unappealing, you may want to consider using the best chrome spray paint to restore its glory.
After hours of research, our top pick has to be the Krylon Original Metallic Premium Chrome. For one, this paint is easy to use and hence great for beginners. It delivers an attractive, lustrous finish that although does not look exactly like chrome, is metallic and silvery. The consistency of this product is just right, as it is not lumpy or runny. What has us sold on this paint however is the fact that it is full coverage.
We narrowed the list down to 10 of the top-rated options in the market to make your job easier.
Table of Contents
Chrome Spray Paints: Comparison
| Ranking | Product Name | Color | Weight |
| 1 | Krylon K01010A07 Premium Metalic Original Chrome | Original Chrome | 10.7 ounces |
| 2 | Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Bright Coat Spray | Metallic Chrome | 91.04 ounces |
| 3 | ]VHT SP525 Quick Coat Silver Chrome | Silver Chrome | 15.5 ounces |
| 4 | Krylon KSCS032 Short Cuts Aerosol Spray Paint | Chrome | 0.32 ounces |
| 5 | Spaz Stix 2 Pack Ultimate Mirror Chrome | – | 3.5 ounces |
| 6 | Dupli-Color Shadow Chrome Black-Out Coating Kit | – | 31.2 ounces |
| 7 | Martha Stewart Crafts Multi-Surface Metallic | Rose Chrome | 0.8 ounces |
| 8 | Montana Cans Montana | – | 8.1 ounces |
| 9 | Automotive Spray Paint | – | – |
| 10 | Rust-Oleum 267727 Specialty Mirror Spray | Silver | 8.8 ounces |
Top Chrome Spray Paints
1. Krylon Premium Metallic Original Chrome
We begin our list with the Krylon Metallic Chrome. Produced in the US, this particular spray paint claims to provide a high-quality, smooth, and elegant finish.
You should expect the result to look like real chrome plating. Moreover, the finish should be glossy and deep.
What we liked about it
Since you are probably the one who is going to spray paint your car, you want the paint to apply smoothly and seamlessly and this is what you will get with the Krylon Metallic Chrome.
This spray paint also produces an appealing, glossy silver finish. Although the finish will not look exactly like chrome, it will be a bit reflective with a bright silvery metallic appearance.
However, what we find most appealing about this product is that it does not run or drip and it provides full coverage.
What Could Have Been Better
The spout of this spray paint appears to be quite weak because there have been reports of it breaking even when not used heavily.
Of course, this can cause a mess and frustration. We feel that the manufacturer should have made the spout a bit steadier.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Lustrous finish
- Quick dry
Cons
- Takes several coats to get the perfect finish
2. Rust-Oleum Chrome Metallic Spray
If you are looking for a paint option that combines value and quality, this is it as it is among our well-performing but affordable choices.
Rust-Oleum delivers high quality, lustrous finish on almost all materials. This product also claims to be chip-resistant so you can be assured of its longevity once sprayed.
What we liked about it
This spray paint is as versatile as they come and can be used on different surfaces. This includes metal, wood, and concrete. We love that it does not limit you to metal.
With this product, you can rest assured of an appealing metallic finish that will make you the envy of your neighbors and friends.
That said; what we liked most about chrome paint is that it retains color and is chip-resistant. This means that it will maintain its state for a long time after spraying.
What Could Have Been Better
Regrettably, this spray paint loses several points when it comes to drying time. Most of the paints in this list take a few minutes to dry but this one takes a whooping hour to do the same.
This increases the chances of something else coming into contact with the sprayed surface and compromising the quality of the finish.
We feel that the manufacturer could have done something about that when producing the paint.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Sleek finish
- Chip-resistant
Cons
- Dries slowly
Also read the article on Best Ceramic Coating for your Cars
3. VHT Chrome Coat Quick Spray Paint
If you are looking for a paint that is going to withstand all weather conditions, the VHT Quick Coat spray is a great option.
It is anideal option for touching up as well so if you just want to improve the chrome finish on your car, this product offers a great way to do it.
What we liked about it
Do you know how spray paints usually contain harsh chemicals? This particular chrome paint does not comprise lead or any other harmful substances.
It also dries up pretty fast so you can get your desired lustrous finish within no time. It is ideal for household and automotive projects as well and we like that.
What Could Have Been Better
Unfortunately, this spray paint does not work wellon its own. It looks good after applying a coat or two, which does not give full coverage.
The problem is that when you add more coats, the finish tends to distort and darken. That is not a good look and we feel that the manufacturer should have made it full coverage.
Pros
- Moderately priced
- Weather-resistant
- Safe for use
Cons
- Not full coverage
4. Krylon Short Cuts Chrome Spray Paint
The Krylon Short cut spray paint is a quick-dry, acid-free, and high-gloss product. It is also versatile and can be applied on several surfaces including plastic, glass, and metal.
It comes in a smaller can compare to the paints we have discussed above and is therefore ideal for smaller projects.
What we liked about it
No one likes a bumpy or uneven finish when painting. Well, you can rely on this product to give you an even and smooth finish.
It is also easy to use and provides a decent amount of coverage. That is not all though because this paint also dries quicker, is lustrous, and looks appealing. We are not mad about any of that.
What Could Have Been Better
The manufacturer of this paint seems not to have put a lot of thought into color matching. This is because this product delivers more of a silver finish than real chrome.
>A better job could have been done with respect to that.
Pros
- Fast dry
- Suitable for different surfaces
- Smooth finish
Cons
- Can too small for big projects
5. Spaz Chrome Stix Spray Paint
Are you on a budget? The Spaz Chrome paint may be a good fit for you. It is one of the lower priced options in this list.
However, that may be the only greatest thing that this paint has to offer.
What we liked about it
This product is actually a set of 3.5-ounce spray paint cans. You can choose to use it as a base coat to another color, a primary color, or accent color. We love that it gives all these options.
What this means is that you can use this product to create mirrored chrome finishes on different car surfaces.
You can also create a personalized look by layering this paint with Candy Colors a line of paints from Spaz as well.
What Could Have Been Better
If you are looking for that reflective element that real chrome offers, you will not find it in this paint. Besides, this paint is prone to chipping and fades quite fast.
It works if you are looking for a less costly short-term solution, but you would be better off spending a bit more for something else if you want longevity.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Versatile
- Easy to use
Cons
- Prone to chipping
6. Dupli-Color Chrome Spray Paint
You will love this paint if you are looking for something specific for your car. We actually think that the Dupli-color spray paint kit is the best option for painting car rims.
However, you should keep in mind that this product does not produce the chrome like color that the rest of the paints on this list do. It is more of a tinting spray paint.
What we liked about it
This paint is specifically for car rims and is therefore manufactured with that in mind. You will get a nice, seamless paint job with this paint.
It gives a smooth and glossy finish that will last a long time and we love that because you will stay a while before having to repaint your rims.
What Could Have Been Better
By far, this is the priciest paint we have come across so if you are strapped financially, this might not be the paint for you.
The manufacturer should have a cheaper alternative that delivers similar results.
Pros
- Long lasting
- Lustrous
- Suitable for car rims
Cons
- Pricey
7. Martha Stewart Crafts Metallic Acrylic Craft Paint
Martha Stewart Crafts metallic chrome paint is a premium product designed to deliver impressive results.
It is water-based meaning that it is safe for use. With no toxic materials in this product, it will deliver a desired smooth and glossy finish without any issues.
What we liked about it
If you like experimenting with colors, you will appreciate this product as it comes in various tints. It is also suitable for all kinds of metal and can be used on other surfaces as well.
Therefore, if you intend to spray anything wooden, glass or fabric, this paint works well. What we liked most about it is that it is full coverage and does not contain any toxic ingredients.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some customers, this spray paint fails to deliver the desired chrome finish. We feel that the manufacturer could have done a better job of making that possible by increasing the coverage of this paint.
Pros
- Comes in various colors
- Safe ingredients
- Great coverage
Cons
- Smaller in quantity
8. Montana Spray Cans Chrome Paint
If you are looking for a spray paint that delivers a glossy, reflective finish that looks more like chrome, the Montana Chrome Paint is a great choice.
It also works for different surfaces so imagine what you can do with this product.
What we liked about it
We are here for the longevity that this paint offers. Whatever surface you choose to spray it on, you can be sure that it will not be chipping the next day.
We also loves that it gives a reflective and glossy finish that mimics real chrome. It will be hard to tell that this is actually paint when you use it on your car rims.
What Could Have Been Better
The only flaw we found with this paint is that it is not full coverage. As such, you would have to use several cans to get that chrome look.
The manufacturer should have given it more coverage so that you do not have to burn several cans to get the desired effect.
Pros
- Glossy finish
- Chip-resistant
- Versatile
Cons
- Not full coverage
9. Automotive 2004 Metallic Silver Spray Paint for Nissan Murano
The Automotive Spray Paint is a professional product that comes as a full kit. It is specially formulated to match the paint on your car.
With this product, you do not have to look elsewhere for the things you might need for your paint job.
What we liked about it
This kit contains everything you need to give a quality and professional finish. It is specially formulated to be used on the Nissan Murano so you do not have to worry about the paint matching your car.
It is also long lasting and chip resistant so no need to worry about touching up your vehicle any time soon.
What Could Have Been Better
The unfortunate thing when it comes to this paint is that it probably will not match your car if it is not created for your model.
You also cannot opt to buy just the spray can because this product is sold as a kit. Of course, this will be costlier compared to our other spray paints.
Pros
- Great match for the Nissan Murano
- Chip resistant
- Quality finish
Cons
- Can only be bought as a kit
10. Rust-Oleum Mirror Specialty Spray
If you have been wanting to make your wheels look shiny, the Rust-Oleum Mirror Spray delivers just that. You can also get a mirror-like effect from any glass item using this paint.
An oil-based formula will deliver a durable, reflective, and glossy finish.
What we liked about it
This product repels chemicals and brake dust while maintaining the original appearance of your wheels. It is specially formulated for heavy-duty projects and dries up faster.
We also loved that this spray paint is easy to use. Its slender, unique can allows you to spray comfortably from any angle.
What Could Have Been Better
Although this product claims to deliver a mirror effect, there have been reports that it is not as reflective.
The paint also has a watery consistency, which makes it runny. The manufacturer could have done a better job with the consistency.
Pros
- Quick dry
- Suitable for huge projects
- Easy to use
Cons
- Drippy consistency
Factors To Consider For The Best Chrome Spray Paint
As you search for the perfect chrome spray paint, you want to consider several crucial factors such as:
Paint Color
Chrome paint comes in several colors and brands. With some brands, you need a single coat to achieve the desired effect while for others; you have to apply several coats.
You want to pay close attention to the spray can’s lid color as it gives you an idea of what finish to expect.
Ease of Use
As we said, chrome paints come in different brands. Some may be easier to apply while others may require some patience.
Usually, you need more than one coat of paint to get the job done but you want to avoid something that has to be applied multiple times to get the desired effect.
Surface Type
Unfortunately, chrome spray paint may not be ideal for some surfaces. For instance, a spray may adhere to metal but fail to do the same for plastic.
You need to ensure that the paint you pick is compatible with whatever you want to paint, or you will not get a great finish that lasts.
Drying Time
Some paints dry faster than others and those are the ones you should be more inclined to. If paint takes longer to dry, chances are high that it will be tainted in the process.
If you will be painting in an enclosed area, you can opt for longer drying paints but if you will be doing it in an open space, go for a quick dry option.
Handy-Tips for Using Chrome Spray Paint
We want your experience of applying chrome paint to be as seamless as possible. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.
- Clean your surface before applying the paint. Wash it with hot water and soap after the paint dries. This ensures that the paint lasts longer.
- Do your painting in a well-ventilated area to dispel paint fumes. These fumes are toxic and you do not want to inhale them.
- Chrome spray paint has some corrosive elements so ensure that you protect your eyes when using the paint.
- Apply primer on your surface before spray-painting it. Doing this ensures that your selected best chrome spray paint adheres better to the surface.
- Hold the can about 10 inches away from surface when painting. Begin at the top and work your way towards the bottom. This will give you a better finish.
- Apply a clear coat over your chrome paint for extra protection. This will improve the longevity of your paint job.
Benefits of Chrome Spray Paint
Why should you use chrome spray paint? Here are a few reasons.
- It offers an easier way of upgrading the style and look of your motorcycle or car.
- The extra coat of paint helps protect surfaces against chips and scratches.
- The only other alternative to spray painting is electroplating. This method is costlier and more complex. With spray painting, you get your car to look appealing at a more affordable cost.
- Chrome Spray paint is easy to use and contains fewer toxins.
- Spray paint can be used on a number of surfaces. It is therefore versatile and multi-purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you have a few questions when it comes to chrome spray paint. We have answered several below that can be of help.
Does chrome spray paint look like real chrome?
There are a number of them that come extremely close to looking like actual chrome but most chrome spray paints deliver a shiny silver color.
Is chrome spray paint suitable for my exhaust?
No, it is not. You will require special paint formulated for high temperatures for that.If you use chrome paint for your exhaust, it will probably end up just melting off.
Which is the best deal in the market?
There are many remarkable products from different brands so picking out one as the best would be hard. Look out for features such as paint consistency, ease of use, and drying time to guide you when making your purchasing decision.
How many coats of chrome spray paint are ideal for a good paint job?
Usually, it takes a few spray paint coats to cover a surface evenly. That said; you need to prep your surface before applying the paint and apply a clear coat once you are done for your paint job to last longer.
How to remove Chrome spray paint?
You can remove paint from surfaces using muriatic acid or paint remover or stripper, which you can purchase at any hardware store. Soak a rag in the acid, then wipe it over the paint. Rinse the surface with tap water and scrub with a scouring pad. Brush it dry, and the paint should come off.
Can chrome spray paint be dangerous?
Chrome spray paint, like any other spray paint, can contain lead. Lead is dangerous at high concentrations, as it is a known neurotoxin. If you are planning on spraying chrome spray paint indoors, be sure to ventilate the area you are working in.
How does Chrome spraypaint work?
Basically, chrome spray paint is a vapor paint that is made up of paint particles and chrome filler. The chrome filler is what creates the metallic finish.
Chrome spray paint (washable, removable, permanent) is eco-friendly, and works on most porous surfaces. Chrome spray paint is water-activated, and releases a spray of chrome particles, which bond to a surface.
What’s the chrome spray paint trick?
Chrome spray paint refers to spray painting certain objects with a chrome-like finish. It creates chrome accents and mirror-like finishes on plastic, metal, glass, wood, and leather.
Can you spray paint chrome parts on my motorcycle?
Yes, you can. However, we don’t recommend that you do this yourself. Chrome is very bright and will reflect the spray paint, making it too visible.
What color would you spray your chrome wheels to make them look new again?
If your chrome wheels are starting to look old, use a car wash and wipe them down. Then, spray the wheels with a chrome wheel cleaner.
The most popular wheels for chrome are black. But you shouldn’t change the color of chrome, go with same color what color it was before.
What color can you spray paint on chrome to make it black?
To spray paint chrome black, mix 10 1/2 oz black spray paint with 1/2 oz clear spray paint.
What type of paint do you use to spray chrome?
We use a chrome paint that has metallic flakes in it, similar to wet-sanded aluminum.
How much would you pay for a Chrome spray paint?
Chrome spray paint is more expensive than regular paint because it needs a special kind of paint that is only available to the chrome paint industry. A can of chrome spray paint costs about $8 to $15.
How to paint chrome parts without spray paint?
To paint chrome parts without spray paint, you can use polishing compounds. These compounds can remove paint, rust, and dirt from chrome parts, and that makes them look like new. You can use Auto Spa for chrome polishing as well. It can be done at any auto body shop.
What is Chrome spray paint used for?
Chrome spray paint is widely used for commercial applications in order to coat metal surfaces in chrome. Chrome spray paint can be used to decorate cars, bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, road signs, handrails, and other metal surfaces.
Final Thoughts
Your car is likely to get scratches and chips as long as you drive it. Therefore, whether you want to cover unsightly marks or give your vehicle a facelift, you may want to consider using a best chrome spray paint.
Of course, there are other options when it comes to improving the appearance of your car, but they are more complicated and expensive.
Chrome spray painting is a cheaper, faster, and easier option. We have provided you with all the information you need as you anticipate to spray paint your car so go ahead and make it happen.
I’m William Guzenski, ASE certified master automobile technician & automotive expert. I love to attend race events and car shows throughout the country. I also loves to travel 40-foot motorhome, exploring abandoned mines and ghost towns. I’m currently building another car for Bonneville Salt Flats and will be campaigning a drag car at several events.