top of page
Employee at Phoenix Collision in Springfield, Illinois fixing the door of a car after a crash.

Stay Road-Ready

Auto Maintenance and Repair Insights by Phoenix Collision of Illinois

Search

Car Paint Matching 101

  • Writer: Phoenix Collision
    Phoenix Collision
  • Aug 7
  • 2 min read

Your car needs a repair. Whether it’s from an accident, a scratch, or simple wear and tear one of the most important steps in the process is restoring the paint to a perfect match. At Phoenix Collision, we know that even the smallest difference in color can stand out, especially in sunlight. That’s why we use advanced custom paint matching techniques to ensure your repair blends seamlessly with the rest of your vehicle.


Here's a behind the scenes look of our color precision process so you can see how we bring your vehicle back to looking brand new.

Why Does Paint Matching Matter?

Rows of spray paint cans labeled "DIAMONT" on shelves, featuring gray nozzles and orange accents. Labels display various color codes.

A flawless repair is about more than fixing dents and scratches, it’s about making the damage disappear completely. If the paint doesn’t match perfectly:

  • The repaired area may be obvious in different lighting conditions.

  • It can lower your car’s resale value.

  • The finish may not look factory-original.

By investing in professional auto paint matching, you’re protecting both your vehicle’s appearance and its long-term value.

The Science Behind Paint Matching

Car manufacturers use hundreds of thousands of paint colors, and those colors can vary slightly from batch to batch. Add in factors like sun exposure, weathering, and age, and no two vehicles (even of the same make, model, and color) are identical.


That’s where our paint color-matching technology comes in. Here’s how it works:


1. Factory Color Codes

Every car has a factory color code located on a label inside the door jamb or under the hood. This is our starting point, it tells us the exact formula the manufacturer used.


2. Digital Color Matching

We use computerized spectrophotometers to read the paint on your car and analyze how it reflects light. This gives us precise measurements that account for natural fading or subtle variations.


3. Expert Blending

Our skilled technicians mix small test batches, spraying them onto sample cards and comparing them to your vehicle in natural and artificial lighting. This step ensures the paint is indistinguishable from every angle.


4. Seamless Application

Once the match is perfected, we apply the paint with controlled spray patterns, blending it into surrounding panels so there’s no visible line where the new paint begins.


Beyond Color: Matching the Finish

Matching the paint color is only half the job, matching the finish is just as important. Depending on your car, this might include:

  • Gloss level (from high-shine to satin or matte)

  • Metallic or pearl effects

  • Clear coat thickness

Our process ensures both the color and finish are identical, giving your vehicle a factory-fresh appearance.

Why Choose Phoenix Collision for Paint Matching?

  • Cutting-Edge Technology: We invest in the latest paint-matching tools for unparalleled accuracy.

  • Experienced Technicians: Our team has years of hands-on expertise in both collision repair and automotive refinishing.

  • Attention to Detail: From prep to finish, we take the time to make sure every repair looks flawless.

When you pick up your vehicle from Phoenix Collision, you won’t just see a repair. You’ll see perfection.

Person in a spray booth painting a car, wearing protective gear and a mask, holding a spray gun. White and gray surroundings.

Get Your Color Match Started

If your vehicle has damage that needs repair and refinishing, don’t settle for “close enough.” Get a free digital estimate and let us show you how precision paint matching can make your repair look invisible.


bottom of page