News & Advice

Yes, a professional body shop can match factory paint on a vehicle. Modern body shops use advanced color-matching technology to ensure that the new paint matches the existing factory paint as closely as possible.

Here’s how they match factory paint…

1. Color Codes – Every vehicle has a specific color code associated with its factory paint. This code is often found on a sticker or plate inside the vehicle (e.g., in the door jamb, under the hood, or in the trunk). Body shops use this code to start with the exact color formula.
2. Computerized Color Matching – Many body shops have computerized color-matching systems. These systems can scan the paint on the vehicle and compare it to the original specifications or create a custom mix. This is especially useful for older vehicles where the paint may have faded over time.
3. Tinting to Match – Even with the exact formula, slight variations can occur due to factors like the age of the paint or exposure to the elements. Professional painters can tint the paint, adjusting the shade until it matches the rest of the vehicle.
4. Blending – To ensure a seamless match, body shops often blend the new paint with the surrounding areas. This technique helps the new paint transition smoothly into the existing paint, making it difficult to see where the old paint ends and the new paint begins.
5. Finish and Texture Matching – Matching the color is just one part of the process. Professional body shops also match the finish (glossy, matte, satin, etc.) and texture of the original paint, ensuring a uniform appearance across the vehicle.

While matching factory paint is a detailed and nuanced process, modern techniques and technologies allow body shops to achieve very close, if not indistinguishable, matches. The success of the match can depend on the skill of the technician, the quality of the equipment, and the condition of the existing paint.