Paintwork

When we refer to your car's paintwork, we are referring to the whole paint system applied to your car, which in all likelihood be 'clear-over-base'. However, on older or commercial vehicles, they may use one of several paint systems which we colloquially call 'solid colour'.

What it means

Paintwork is the painted finish on the outside of a car. On modern vehicles it normally consists of primer, a coloured basecoat and a clearcoat lacquer on top. Together these layers give the car its colour and shine and help protect the metal or plastic panels underneath from weather, UV and minor wear and tear.

Why it matters

• First thing people see: Clean, glossy paintwork makes a car look newer and better cared for, which affects pride of ownership and resale value.
• Provides protection: Healthy paintwork and clearcoat help shield the body from corrosion, UV damage and general weathering.
• Shows defects clearly: Scratches, stains, oxidation, bird mess etching and poor repairs all show up in the paintwork, so it is a key focus for detailing and inspection.
• Defines what can be restored: The thickness and condition of the paintwork decide how far you can safely go with polishing, sanding or correction before a respray becomes the sensible option.

Where you’ll see it

You will see the word paintwork on detailing menus, inspection reports and bodyshop estimates. Phrases such as paintwork correction, paintwork in poor condition, machine polish paintwork or paintwork requires respray are common. It usually refers to all the exterior painted panels: bonnet, roof, doors, wings, bumpers and tailgate.

Context

In day to day use, paintwork is a catch all term for the exterior finish of the car rather than one specific layer. Detailers talk about improving paintwork with washing, decontamination, machine polishing and protection such as wax, sealant or ceramic coating. Bodyshops talk about repairing or refinishing paintwork with flatting, priming, repainting and clearcoating. When assessing a car, professionals look at the paintwork for colour match, gloss, texture, defects and signs of previous repairs.

Common mistakes

• Confusing thin or tired paintwork that could respond to careful polishing with clearcoat that has already failed and really needs repainting.
• Assuming every defect in the paintwork can be fully removed safely, even where the clearcoat is already thin, especially on edges and high points.
• Neglecting regular washing and protection so contaminants, bird mess and UV slowly degrade the paintwork long before the car is mechanically worn out.
• Focusing only on shiny paintwork and ignoring poor colour match, heavy orange peel or overspray that still let down the overall finish.

Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 21/11/2025 14:56