What is the difference between factory paint and repaint?
3 Answers
From the perspective of paint layers, factory paint consists of four layers, while repaint only has three layers, lacking the electrophoretic layer. As a result, repaint may develop color differences after some time of use. In terms of application techniques, factory paint is applied by machines, ensuring even spraying, excellent adhesion, and high-temperature resistance. In contrast, repaint is done manually, which can lead to issues like peeling and fading. Below are some advantages of factory paint: Factory paint has a very thin coating: The thickness does not exceed 0.1 millimeters, equivalent to the diameter of a strand of hair. Despite its thinness, factory paint boasts strong adhesion, high hardness, and good wear and corrosion resistance. Factory paint provides uniform color: During production, manufacturers use the same type of paint, sometimes even custom-made specialized paint. Whether in terms of color or type, the paint is perfectly matched to the product, ensuring consistent thickness and uniform color without any color discrepancies.
The original factory paint is baked at high temperatures in the automobile manufacturing plant, reaching around 100 to 200 degrees Celsius. This results in a thicker, more uniform paint layer with stronger adhesion, providing better rust and UV protection, thus ensuring long-lasting durability with minimal color changes even after three to five years. In contrast, repainting is mostly done in repair shops at much lower baking temperatures, perhaps around 70 to 80 degrees, with less refined techniques. The paint layer is thinner, prone to color mismatches or yellowing, especially noticeable under sunlight, where subtle differences can be seen. I also believe that original factory paint offers better protection for the car body, saving money and hassle in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repairs. When opting for repainting, it's crucial to choose a professional shop, as low-quality paint may fade or bubble within a few years. As for cost, original factory paint comes standard with new cars, while repainting is cheaper but incurs higher maintenance costs. Overall, if the budget allows, it's best to avoid damaging the original paint whenever possible.
Last time my car got a deep scratch on the side and had to be repainted. It looked good when fixed, but within half a year of sun exposure, it started fading and became spotty, far less durable than the original factory paint. The factory paint is baked at high temperatures during production with strong adhesion - mine lasted years without issues. The repaint used normal temperature baking, with thinner paint layers that couldn't withstand weathering. While it saved me hundreds in repair costs, the quality difference is significant. For minor scratches, I'd recommend just using touch-up paint pens. Also, paint maintenance is crucial - frequent washing with quality cleaners can extend repaint longevity. I learned one thing: after repainting, try to park away from strong sunlight to prevent accelerated aging.
