A process for coating substrates of motor vehicle exhaust gas catalysts is described, and includes steps of applying a suspension (e.g., washcoat) to a substrate, allowing a shear force to act on the applied washcoat, as in pressure transmitted by gas (e.g., air), and then sucking and/or pressing the washcoat into the substrate. The process in inclusive of providing the suspension (washcoat) containing the catalytic material from above in a metered charge process. An apparatus for carrying out the noted process steps is also featured.