What type of paint does Ford use?
Ford uses a water-based (waterborne) exterior paint system as part of a multi-layer coating process, including electrocoat primer, a primer layer, a waterborne basecoat for color, and a protective clearcoat.
Overview of Ford's paint system
Ford employs a multi-layer exterior coating designed for durability, color accuracy, and environmental compliance. The basecoat is waterborne, and the system typically includes an electrocoat primer, a primer surfacer, a waterborne basecoat, and a clearcoat to seal and protect the finish.
Core layers of Ford's exterior paint
The following are the principal layers typically involved in Ford's exterior coatings:
- Electrocoat (E-coat) primer – provides corrosion protection across vehicle metal surfaces.
- Primer surfacer – fills minor imperfections and improves adhesion between layers.
- Basecoat (waterborne) – adds color; formulated as a water-based pigment system.
- Clearcoat – durable, UV-protective finish that adds gloss and protects the color.
In short, these layers work together to protect the metal, ensure color fidelity, and deliver the durable gloss Ford customers expect from their vehicles.
Why Ford uses water-based coatings
Water-based coatings reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous emissions, aligning with environmental regulations and sustainability goals while maintaining durability, color stability, and weather resistance.
Notes on variability
Exact formulations and supplier choices can vary by model year and manufacturing region, but the industry-standard approach for Ford today remains a multi-layer, waterborne basecoat–clearcoat system with an electrocoat primer.
Summary
Ford uses a multi-layer, water-based paint system for its exterior finishes, consisting of E-coat primer, primer, waterborne basecoat, and clearcoat. This approach balances environmental requirements with durability, color accuracy, and a high-gloss finish.
