May have the opportunity to buy some older stock paint at a pretty good discount, but I'm concerned what the shelf life is of typical good quality paints and primers. Figured you guys that have worked in the shops or rep'd would have some good experience.

Are automotive paints dated the way food is? Beyond a serial number or a run number, is there a way to tell exactly how old a can is? Obviously a 20 year old can of paint would be avoided, but what about a 5 yr old can? 3...? 1...? What about 6 mos...?

In other words, if I look at a can of PPG primer or paint... Is there a way to decide that it should be avoided if it's a new looking can?

There should be a year code at least on the can? I've gotten stuff from Standox that was a year old with no problems. I keep all my old paint and have used basecoat that is probably 5 years old with no problem. As long as the stuff was kept warm I would think a year or two you should be safe. Thinners and such would last much longer, hardners I would think would have the least amount of shelf life, if you open it and it's as thick as molasses it's probably bad!!!

IMO as long as it was in a stable environment and not opened. A vary long shelf life. As for opened and left over mixed Base, I have used PPG and Dupont Base coat that have sat for many many years , on little projects. With no problem. Primers 2k and Uro types.. I aslo see no problem...