The process varies on how much you pay. but here goes.

take the body and strip it bare (for a good job) and etch or epoxy prime.. this has to be done with minimal exposure of metal to air in this weather (humid).

a cheaper job, they may just scuff back the old paint only.

carry out all necessary repairs (welding in patch panels for rust repairs, knocking out dents etc).

apply filler.. rub back.

Hi fill / guide coat. rub back

this process is repeated until the guide coat shows it as smooth.
working down to 600 wet rubbed prior to base.

apply base coat (if metallic).
or colour coat (if solid).

Clear coat (if metallic).

Of course this is just a very basic summary.

no advantage of metallics as a paint, but they are applied as a "clear over base" .. advantage is colour choice is generally greater.

non metallic is reffered to as solid 2K.

Of course, the more hours they spend, the more you pay, the better the result.


here's a tip.... strip your body for them.. saves hours.

clean your car with a high pressure hose.. make sure there is no grease or dirt.

be wary about who you take your car to, most places only know how to "remove and replace" with untrained monkeys and a spray painter.