How Does Car Paint Matching Work at an Auto Body Shop?
When you get body work and repairs done on your car, the final step to the process is always painting the new parts to match the rest of your vehicle. Paint matching is an important part of the car body repair process, as it ensures that any blemishes or damage to your car’s paint job are seamlessly repaired and blended in with the original color. Car paint matching can be done in a variety of ways at an auto body shop, but here are some of the more common methods:
1. Visual Matching:
This is the oldest and simplest method of paint matching, in which a technician uses their eyes to match a color sample to the original paint on your car. While this is the oldest method, it isn’t always the most accurate anymore due to an increase in manufacturers and custom paint colors.
2. Color Scanning:
A colorimeter is a tool used by technicians to measure and analyze the exact color of your car’s paint. This device can provide a very precise and accurate color match, but it is expensive and can be difficult to use correctly. However if you have a custom color this may be the best way to go.
3. Paint Code Matching:
More recently, manufacturers have created color coding for their different makes and models that stand apart from the others. Most cars now will have a paint code that identifies the exact shade of paint used on your car’s exterior. This paint code can be used as a reference when purchasing replacement materials from the auto body shop.
4. Spectrophotometer:
A spectrophotometer is a tool used to match the exact color of your car’s paint. This device works by bouncing light off the paint and analyzing it at different angles and depths in order to get the most accurate results. Spectrophotometers are very precise but can take longer than other methods due to having to scan the entire car.
5. A Combination
Another way auto body shops can paint match is by using a mix of the above methods. This is common when trying to match custom colors or if your car has multiple shades of paint. No matter what method they use, technicians need to be extremely precise and aware of the exact color of your vehicle’s paint in order to get a perfect match. The right combination of tools and expertise can make all the difference in the finished product.
No matter which method you and your technician decide on, proper paint matching is essential for a successful repair job. A good auto body shop will have a variety of methods available so that you get the best results possible. With a few simple steps, you can be sure that your car looks as good as new! Paint matching is a delicate process that requires precision and expertise, so it’s important to make sure you have chosen a qualified auto body shop with experience in paint matching to ensure the best results. With that, your car’s paint can be perfectly matched to its original condition in no time!