Yet, another primer question

OK, I am getting back into modeling after about 25-20 years (I am 36 if you want to do the math). I know from past that priming models before painting is a choice thing so paint doesn’t peel and such. My question is: can you use other-than model primer? Is automotive primer good, or is there some other kind? I have a lot of auto paint primer left over from doing my car and it costs about the same, but there is more, making it cheaper.

Please help a come back beginner![:p]

I know of lots of people that uses primer other than ‘modelling’ primer. The only issue with Automotive primer is that they are usually lacquer based? And some may be too ‘hot’ and eat into plastic. If you have a stash, I would try it on some extra sprues to make sure its safe first.