Who here uses paint depth gauges?

[psnt1ol]

A paint depth gauge comes in handy in developing an approach to the vehicle. It also came in handy when purchasing a vehicle. I also brought my gauge along the last time I shopped for a pre-owned car. The salesman's reaction to me questioning him on the different readings was priceless since he told me the car was never been repainted prior. I used that as a negotiation tactic and got several thousands off the vehicle. LOL

[Spikey Mike]

I do. It comes in particularly handy when I have to wet sand.

[Dan Tran]

I have denied plenty of good paying jobs because of a paint depth gauge. Not worth the risk of polishing out thin paint for no reason.

[UncleDavy]

I am by no means a professional, but I use one if I am breaking out the polisher on my own vehicles or especially a friend's or family's vehicle. If you are a professional, it would be a good idea to invest in a high quality gauge. I purchased a cheaper one on Amazon. I use the door jamb test to get an indication of the thickness of the clearcoat.

[98CayenneTA]

I use the door jamb test to get an indication of the thickness of the clearcoat.

Another good place to measure is on the bottom side of the hood, especially on American vehicles where it's usually not cleared, just primed and base.

[RZJZA80]

I use one before any polish, and have refused to polish many because the paint was too thin.