I've attempted to paint my console top (the black part w/ the cup holders in it) twice now. Now I've been using Dupli-Color automotive spray paint (which may be my problem) but it was an inexpensive way to do it. That was unless I have to keep doing it.
I prepped the area, and sanded, and used primer. I used a couple coats of color paint and clear coat. My problem is that where the driver seats rubs against it, it keeps rubbing it off down to the plastic from adjusting the incline of the seat back. Now you can't see it until you undo the top and pull it out, but I don't like that its a bad finish.
Am I not letting the paint cure long enough - should this paint hold up? I think I let it set inside overnight after painting it before installing it in the car (it said let cure for 4 hours before handling). Am I just going to have to pay to have it professionally painted at a body shop if I want anything that holds up?

 

You could try a paint specifically for plastic , it might hold up better. Also the longer you let it cure the better it will hold up , the can should say how long it takes to cure and then I'd add some time to that ...

 

start with an adhesion promoter.

 

It's gonna cost some money, but from my experience the only way to get the quality and durability you want is to have it painted at a auto body shop. Just my .02