Auto Technical Reference Library
Auto Refinishing

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Introduction

A comprehensive overview of automotive refinishing, including equipment and terminology is included in this section of the ATRL.

Refinish operations are introduced during the manufacturing process to protect sheet-metal surfaces and give vehicles a distinct appearance. Proper application of refinish materials relative to the repair process, helps ensure customer satisfaction and long term durability of the repairs.

Although refinishing does not affect vehicle safety, it does affect the customer's evaluation of the repair. If the refinish process is not done properly, paint defects will appear and be easily seen. Following proper application procedures as specified by the paint manufacturer is key to ensuring successful vehicle refinishing.

In the Paint Manufacturer Procedures section of this module, five paint manufacturers' refinishing products and application procedures are listed for their most popular paint lines.  Included are blending recommendations for color (base) and clear coats, and proper procedures for cleaning, prepping and refinishing unprimed and primed plastic parts.  You will also find links the paint manufacturer websites.