Hi, I'm in the process of getting a front lip for my 14 non f sport.
​I want to paint it myself using black glossy spray paint to match my black exterior.
Does anyone have suggestions on what type of paint I can use to prevent rock chips?

If such paint does not exist, my next option is to take it to the shop or wrap it. Any suggestion on wrapping vs body shop?

Thanks!

 

I don't believe "anti-chip" paint exists. Your best bet is paint it then let it cure for 30-60 days. Then after paint is cured, go get Paint Protect Film (PPF). If you're in Socal, I can recommend a good PPF installer.
Even with PPF, you're not 100% protected from paint chips. You're bound to get a cut or tear in the film eventually, especially since the lip is so low on your car. Not sure if all the hassle is worth it.
I was planning on getting my front bumper and lip repaint then PPF, but holding out for some nicer '16+ aftermarket bumper conversion kit to come out.

 

​​​​​Ahhh I​I see. In that case maybe I should just wrap it?
I'm in NorCal, everything is more expensive here.

 

I was advised against wrapping front lip. It's too narrow in some place to get a good wrap. Plus mine is always scrapping on the pavement, wrap would not last very long.
I'd go with paint but have realistic expectation. If you drive alot, especially on dirt roads, you'll get chips eventually.
My lip now is PlastiDip. It was super easy to do, but the paint is already ripping in some places. And I rarely drive my GS.

 

Make sense. Thanks for the suggestion!

 

Agreed with fellow member @jdpdata : I was going to paint my rear valence either gloss black or white and the shop I went to advised me against it (owner is a family friend). He said the valence would chip and look terrible after a little while. He recommended I plastdip the valence and use the glossifier to help make it shiny. He mentioned to do the same with the front lip I have as well as that would be messy after just a few months on NYC streets.

After he said this, I initially plastidipped the front lip (L-Style lip off eBay) to see how it looked and preferred its original matte black finish. But I bought the white plastidip and still have the glossifier if I ever get the urge to go for a different look at some point. The plastidip smells like a chemical and so does the glossifier but its easy to work with and peels right off if you mess up somehow.

Check out this guy who plasti-dipped the front of his IS's bumper to give you an idea:

 

Powder-coat?

 

You can't powder coat plastics to my knowledge, only metal objects due to the baking process.

When painting lips/body kit parts - it's best to use primer and paints with flex additives.
Paint - cure - film. Get the "self curing" film - it will hold up way better over time.

Plasti-dip imo is a poor choice for body panels unless you're okay with re-doing the panel on a regular basis. It's designed to be removable, so any small hiccup will raise an edge and make it look like crap. Great for emblems, trim, and objects out of harm's way. Not so great for areas of abuse like front ends or wheels.
I also agree with not vinyl wrapping a lip for similar reasons. Once the vinyl gets a chip or starts to bubble you're screwed and will need to be redone.

When the lip is off the car - it's a lot easier to prep and paint properly so I say spend the time and money up front and never worry about it again.

 

You could use 2k clear. That 2 part clear I use on my calipers and it's super strong.

 

I never heard of a paint that doesn't chip, I am sure some companies may try to claim it but that is likely under very specific conditions, you would have to wrap it in order to provide the best paint chip protection.