What can you use to determine if a car has clear coat?

Using sandpaper is an effective method to determine if a car has a clear coat. When you lightly sand an area of the vehicle's paint, if you observe the clear coat being removed without affecting the color layer underneath, it indicates the presence of a clear coat. The process usually involves sanding down to see if the underlying paint layer remains intact while the clear coat is diminished.

This technique allows you to assess the layers of paint and understand the extent of the paint job, as the existence of a clear coat can enhance durability and gloss. Evaluating the paint layers is crucial for appraisers when estimating damage or the condition of the vehicle's exterior.

The other methods mentioned either do not provide a reliable means of identifying a clear coat or are likely to damage the paint more severely, offering less clarity about the finish's condition.