Is there a difference between original factory paint and 4S store touch-up paint?
2 Answers
Original factory paint and 4S store touch-up paint do have differences, which are: 1. Different spraying environments: The OEM paint shop in the original factory is a sealed positive-pressure workshop with air filtered through multiple layers and oil-water separation; 4S store touch-up paint is done in a separate paint room or outdoors. 2. Different construction tools: Original factory paint uses robotic automatic spraying in the OEM; 4S store touch-up paint is done manually with ordinary spray guns. 3. Different baking methods: Original factory paint in the OEM paint shop uses thermal radiation to bake the car body at temperatures reaching 200 degrees Celsius; 4S store touch-up paint uses lamp baking.
Last time I had my car door repainted at the 4S shop, it looked fine when I first drove back, but after a few days I noticed quite obvious color differences - some areas appeared darker and some lighter under sunlight. The mechanic explained that the factory paint is applied through high-temperature baking when the car is new, with multiple even layers. Although 4S shops use original paint formulas, their manual spraying with lower oven temperatures than factories can easily cause bubbles or orange peel texture. Now I understand it's better not to touch up minor scratches since factory paint is more durable. If repainting is necessary, find professional services. Whenever I notice dull spots while washing the car, I worry they might crack. Regular waxing for protection helps.
