Full repaint of the car

When does the car need a full repaint?

A full repaint is the most extensive paint job we do, and there are several typical reasons to go all the way rather than settling for spot work. The most common causes are that the original paint is old and weathered after many years of sun and salt, that the car has undergone a major collision repair involving many panels, or that the owner wants to change colour — typically from a faded shade to something more exclusive, or vice versa from an unusual colour to a more saleable one. Classic and collector cars are also a big category, where a properly executed full repaint is often necessary to preserve and increase value.

The process — how we do it

First we remove every part that can be unbolted: mirrors, door handles, mouldings, lights and emblems. The car is thoroughly washed, and anything that cannot be removed is carefully masked with paper and tape. Then we begin sanding or, where required, sand-blasting to take the old paint off entirely — typically on panels with rust or deep damage. Smaller spots are filled, sanded back and re-prepared. Once the substrate is smooth and clean, a primer is applied to give correct adhesion for the colour layer. The colour itself is built up with 2–3 coats of base coat to ensure coverage, followed by 2–3 coats of clear coat which provides gloss and UV protection.

Time estimate and quality

A professional full repaint typically takes 5–10 working days. Much of the time is spent on flash-off between coats and on the final polish. Our spray booth maintains controlled temperature (20–25 °C) and humidity, and has filtered airflow that prevents dust particles from settling on wet paint — that's the difference between a job that looks good and one that looks perfect. We use colour-analysis equipment (a spectrophotometer) to read the existing paint or a desired reference, so that we hit the right shade even on pearl and metallic finishes.

Specialty finishes

Standard solid colour is the most common, but we also do metallic paint with aluminium flakes giving extra depth and gloss variation in sunlight, pearlescent paint (a 3-stage system with an interference layer) that shifts hue with viewing angle, and matte finish, which has become popular on premium cars. Each system has its own demands for both application and aftercare — we always explain what suits the desired look best.

Warranty and follow-up

We give a 5-year warranty on full repaints against flaking, cracking and fading under normal use. We recommend waiting around 30 days before washing, waxing or polishing once you collect the car, so the paint can fully cure. We always provide detailed care instructions, and you are welcome to come in for an annual check where we assess condition and polish out any minor wear scratches.

Book paintwork online or call us on 41 17 32 24.