The Science of the Spray: Behind the Scenes of a Professional Full Repaint

In our final deep dive with Mr. David from CKR Workshop, we pull back the curtain on the actual process of repainting a car. We learn why "mixing and matching" paint brands is a recipe for disaster and why surface preparation is the most critical step in the shop.

1. What is a "Full Repaint" Exactly?

Interviewer: Mr. David, when a customer asks for a "full repaint," what does that technically include?

Mr. David: Typically, a standard full repaint refers to the exterior panels. This means we spray all the outside surfaces but exclude the inner door frames or the engine bay unless the customer specifically requests a "total color change." To do it right, we must follow a strict Technical Data Sheet provided by the paint supplier and ensure the surface is perfectly prepared before the first drop of paint touches the metal.

2. The "Makeup Base" of Car Paint

Interviewer: You often mention "surface preparation." How important is this step?

Mr. David: It is everything. I like to compare it to a woman’s makeup base. No matter how expensive or high-quality your foundation or lipstick is, if the skin isn't prepared, the result won't look good. In our world, if the foundation (the surface) isn't prepped, the paint won't stick, and it won't last.

3. The Layers: How Many is Enough?

Interviewer: Most people think it’s just one layer of color. How many layers do you actually apply?

Mr. David: It depends on the condition of the car and the type of color:

• Standard Condition: Usually around 5 layers (Primer, Color, and Clear Coat).

• If Body Filler (Siming/Patty) is used: We need at least 7 layers because the undercoat primer is essential for the new paint to bond with the repair work.

• Crystal or Pearl Colors (Tri-Stage): These require an additional 2 to 3 layers of effect coating, bringing the total to 9 or 10 layers.

4. The "Full Range" Secret: Why CKR is Different

Interviewer: You mentioned that CKRR uses a "Full Range Kansai" system. Why don't other workshops do this?

Mr. David: Many outside workshops try to save costs by "mixing." They might use a high-quality color but mix it with a cheap, blended clear coat or a low-grade solvent.

At CKR, we are specialized and Certified. Anyone can buy Kansai paint, but not everyone undergoes the official training to get a certificate. Using a Full Range System (where the primer, thinner, color, and clear coat are all from the same brand) ensures a perfect chemical bond.

5. Warranty and Accountability

Interviewer: What happens if something goes wrong with a paint job?

Mr. David: This is the biggest reason to use a Full Range system. If you mix brands and the paint starts to peel, no supplier will take responsibility because they don't know which chemical caused the failure. But if you use 100% Kansai or 100% Nippon, the technical team from that company will stand behind their product. We provide that peace of mind to our customers.

Interviewer: And how long does this whole process usually take?

Mr. David: For a high-quality exterior repaint, we usually complete it within a week. We don't rush the drying and curing process because that is when the magic happens.

Mr. David’s Final Advice to Car Owners

"Always insist on a Full Range System. It doesn't matter if it's Kansai, Nippon, PPG, or Glasurit—just make sure the workshop isn't mixing brands. It is the only way to guarantee your car's paint is protected by a real warranty and technical support."