15 January 2026
How to Tell Genuine Car Paint From a Fake (and Why It Matters)
Cheap, fake paint fades, peels and cracks. Learn the simple signs of genuine Sikkens paint and how to protect your money.
If you've ever seen a car that looked great for a few months and then started fading, peeling or cracking, there's a good chance the problem wasn't the painter — it was the paint. In a market where fake and low-quality products are common, knowing what you're buying can save you a lot of money and frustration.
Why genuine paint matters
Genuine automotive paint, like Sikkens from AkzoNobel, is engineered to handle heat, sunlight, rain and dust — exactly the conditions our vehicles face every day in Tanzania. Fake or diluted paint might look fine on the day, but it often can't survive our climate. Within months it can lose its shine, change colour, or start to lift off the panel.
Simple signs to look for
Buy from a known supplier — genuine Sikkens is sold through recognised dealers, not from the roadside; if a price looks too good to be true, it usually is. Check the packaging — real products have clear, professional labelling, batch numbers and manufacturer information from AkzoNobel, Netherlands. Ask about the full system — a proper job isn't just colour, it's the right primer, hardener, thinner and clearcoat working together, and a genuine supplier will guide you through all of it. Look at past work — a trusted shop can show you vehicles they've painted that still look good after a year or more.
The bottom line
Repainting your car is an investment. Spending a little more on genuine paint and a proper process means you won't be paying again next year. When in doubt, come talk to us — we'll show you the real thing and explain exactly what your car needs.