When purchasing a car, the colour often plays a decisive role. Today’s drivers in the UK are presented with a vast spectrum of paint options, ranging from striking metallics and sophisticated matte finishes to complex multi-layer tri-coat applications.

However, while the colour might be what initially catches the eye, many consumers are unaware that not all automotive paint is the same. Choosing or repairing with the wrong type of paint can lead to unexpected costs and complications down the line, particularly if your vehicle boasts a non-standard colour.

Specialty paint options, such as metallic or pearlescent finishes, often incur additional costs when buying new. Kevin Abrahams, a paint specialist at the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), highlights that these premium colours can add a significant amount to the initial price.

Furthermore, their maintenance and upkeep often demand greater care. Matte finishes, for instance, are particularly delicate and can prove challenging to clean and repair effectively. “Sunlight, weather, and routine washing can cause these special colours to fade subtly over time, and achieving an exact match for touch-ups can be tricky,” Abrahams notes.

“Modern automotive paints are no longer solely about aesthetics; they are a complex blend of chemistry and advanced technology,” explains Abrahams. “Tri-coat finishes, for example, utilise multiple layers, including tinted basecoats, pearlescent midcoats, and clearcoats, to achieve remarkable depth and shimmer. Replicating these intricate systems accurately requires the use of OEM-approved products and specialised equipment.”

Additionally, some custom or limited-edition colours are exclusive to specific models or production years and may not always be readily available, necessitating custom mixing directly from the manufacturer, which inevitably increases costs for future repairs. Matte paint is particularly challenging to repair seamlessly.

“Any polishing or blending attempts can negatively affect the unique flat finish, often requiring a full panel respray, or even a complete vehicle respray in some instances. Generally, more standard colours like white and silver are easier to match and tend to be more straightforward when it comes to vehicle resale,” he advises.

“Modern automotive refinishing is an incredibly specialised field,” emphasises Abrahams. “It’s not simply about spraying on a colour that looks similar; it involves utilising cutting-edge paint systems, adhering strictly to manufacturer specifications, and ensuring expert application to achieve a durable, precise, and safe finish.”

Advancements in automotive coatings include the development of high-solid (HS) and ultra-high-solid (UHS) clearcoats, which offer enhanced durability and superior gloss retention. Low-VOC (volatile organic compound) systems are now prevalent to ensure environmental compliance, and UV-cured primers are used to expedite drying times. Some manufacturers are

even incorporating self-healing clearcoats and ceramic-infused layers to significantly improve scratch resistance and extend the longevity of the paint finish.

While professional body shops and automotive refinishers in the SA are equipped with sophisticated colour-matching tools, achieving a flawless repair often necessitates blending the new paint into adjacent panels to ensure a seamless transition that is imperceptible to the naked eye.

“Regardless of the specific type of paint finish your vehicle has, it’s crucial to ask the right questions when your car requires repairs – both of your insurer and your chosen repairer,” advises Abrahams. “Colour matching is paramount, but the quality of the paint used is equally important for a lasting and aesthetically pleasing repair.”

Source: Cathy Findley PR