FREE SHIPPING FOR ALL ORDERS OVER $150.
What Can Body Shops do to Achieve a Mirror-Like Finish

What Can Body Shops do to Achieve a Mirror-Like Finish?

How to Achieve Show-Room Quality Results

When restoring or customizing a vehicle, the final polishing and buffing stages are often the difference between a merely good job and a mirror-like finish that turns heads. You can elevate your work to professional standards with the right products and techniques. Below, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide using some of Ben-Ami’s recommended materials to achieve that flawless, mirror-like shine.

Step By Step Guide for a Mirror-Like Finish to a Vehicle

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

A clean, well-lit, and dust-free environment is essential. Before you begin, ensure your garage or workshop floor is swept, and the vehicle’s surface is wiped down with a quality surface cleaner and lint-free cleaning wipes. Dust and debris can cause swirl marks and imperfections during the polishing process.

Recommended products:

Ben-Ami Wax and Grease Remover – For removing grease, oils, and dust

Lint-Free Tork Cleaning Clothes – Ensures a streak-free, professional finish on auto body surfaces

Ben-Ami Auto Body Surface Workspace

 

Step 2: Evaluate Your Paint Condition
Before selecting your polishing compounds, examine the paint. Are there swirl marks, minor scratches, oxidation, or dullness? Understanding the severity of imperfections will determine what type of compound and pad you need. For instance, moderate surface imperfections may call for a medium-cut compound, while a finishing polish is suitable for lighter imperfections and adding depth.

Recommended Product Pairings:

  • Medium-Cut Compound + Foam Cutting Pad – For moderate swirl marks and light scratches.
  • Finishing Polish + Finishing Pad – For removing faint haze and bringing out a deep gloss.

Recommended Products:

  • Rupes Color Codes Pads and Compounds – The Rupes Polishing System employs a color-coded approach for simplicity and consistency. Each pad color corresponds to a specific polish or compound, making it easy to choose the right combination for each stage of correction. Rupes’ carefully formulated polishes and compounds are engineered to optimize results when used with their machines and pads. These products break down evenly, generate minimal dusting, and wipe off easily. They are also compatible with various paint types—from conventional clear coats to ceramic coatings—ensuring a safe, effective finish across many surfaces.

Rupes Color Pads and Compounds

Virtus Polishing Compounds

 

Step 3: Begin with the Right Tools
A high-quality dual-action (DA) polisher or rotary buffer ensures more consistent results than hand-polishing. DA polishers are especially user-friendly and greatly reduce the risk of creating new swirl marks or “burning” the paint.

Recommended Product: 

RUPES: LHR21ES 6″ Electric Random Orbital Polisher

RUPES: LHR21IIII 6″ Electric Random Orbital Polisher

RUPES: LHR 15IIII 5″ Electric Random Orbital Polisher

RUPES DA Polishers

Step 4: Polish in Sections
Work on the vehicle panel by panel. For each section (about 2’x2′), apply fresh compound to your pad. Set the polisher at a low speed to spread the product evenly before increasing it to a moderate speed to begin correcting the paint. Use slow, controlled passes—overlapping each pass by about 50%—to ensure uniform coverage.

Auto Body Polishing In Sections for a Mirror-Like Finish

Pro Tip:
Keep the pad level to the surface and apply moderate pressure. Let the polish do the work; pressing too hard can generate heat and cause more harm than good.

Step 6: Finish with a Fine Polish
After you’ve addressed the major imperfections with a medium-cut compound, switch to a finer finishing polish. This step refines the surface, removing any micro-marring left behind and enhancing the gloss. Use a softer finishing pad and repeat the same process—low speed to spread, then moderate speed for polishing passes—until the paint glows with clarity.

Recommended Product:

  • Rupes DA Fine Polishing Compound – delivers moderate defect removal along with an incredible finish quality on most paints. The formula has been tuned for easy wipe-off and an optimized user experience with any of the yellow D-A System Pads.

Rupes DA Fine Polishing Compound for a Mirror-Like Finish

Conclusion 

Achieving a flawless, showroom-quality shine is all about patience, the right products, and proper technique. With Ben-Ami’s carefully curated range of polishing compounds, finishing polishes, tools, and protective coatings, you’ll have everything you need to elevate your work from ordinary to extraordinary. Give these steps a try, and watch your hard work pay off in the form of a radiant, mirror-perfect finish.

Collision Core Paint Mixing

Unlocking Precision: Valspar Collision Core for Paint Mixing

Ben-Ami Auto Care: Your Source for Valspar Collision Core and More

At Ben-Ami Auto Care, we carry the Valspar Collision Core System For Paint Mixing, to help your body shop operate at peak performance.

In the fast-paced world of automotive refinishing, precision is everything. Whether dealing with a minor touch-up or a full vehicle respray, getting the color right can make or break the final result. This is where Valspar Collision Core comes in—a state-of-the-art paint mixing system designed to streamline your workflow, improve color accuracy, and ensure that every job is completed with professional-grade precision.

Sherwin-Williams Collison Core

Why Valspar Collision Core For Paint Mixing?

Valspar, a trusted name in the automotive refinishing industry, created the Collision Core to address daily body shop challenges. This includes inconsistent color matching, inefficient workflows, and the additional cost of mistakes. This innovative system is designed to simplify paint mixing, offering you the control and precision needed for even the most challenging jobs.

Here’s a closer look at how Valspar Collision Core can transform your paint-mixing process:

1. Advanced Color Matching Technology

At the heart of the Valspar Collision Core is its cutting-edge color-matching software. This system is equipped with a comprehensive database of thousands of automotive colors. This key feature allows you to find the perfect match with ease. With this system, you can mix paint to match factory finishes or custom colors with unmatched accuracy.

Valspar’s advanced software ensures that the color blends seamlessly with the rest of the paint job. This will reduce the risk of mismatches and costly redos.

2. Streamlined Workflow

Time is money in any body shop, and Valspar Collision Core helps you save both. The system is designed to integrate seamlessly with your current operations, making the paint-mixing process faster and more efficient. The intuitive user interface and step-by-step instructions guide technicians through the mixing process.

The result? Less wasted product, faster turnaround times, and more satisfied customers.

3. Improved Accuracy and Consistency

Valspar Collision Core also eliminates many of the variables that can lead to color inconsistencies. Its precision scales ensure that each component of the paint is measured accurately, while its intelligent software adjusts the formulas to account for environmental factors such as temperature and humidity. This ensures that every batch of paint is mixed perfectly, regardless of the conditions in your shop.

4. Cost Efficiency

Inaccurate paint mixing can lead to waste, and cause your body shop to lose valuable time and money. Valspar Collision Core helps minimize product waste by ensuring that the exact amount of paint needed is mixed, eliminating guesswork. This not only helps reduce your overall material costs but also improves profitability by reducing the time spent on color corrections and reworks.

5. Ongoing Support and Training

Valspar doesn’t just provide the tools for success; they also offer extensive training and support to help you get the most out of the Collision Core system. Whether you’re new to paint mixing or an experienced technician, Valspar’s support team is there to guide you through any challenges and ensure you’re using the system to its fullest potential.

Take Your Paint Mixing to the Next Level

In an industry where precision is key, the Valspar Collision Core system is a game-changer. From its advanced color-matching capabilities to its ability to streamline workflows and reduce waste, this system empowers automotive professionals to deliver consistently outstanding results.

If you’re ready to take your paint mixing capabilities to the next level, consider incorporating Valspar Collision Core into your shop’s operations. With the right tools and technology, achieving flawless finishes has never been easier.

Valspar Collison Core

Transtar No Mix Refinishing System

Why Choose Transtar No Mix Refinishing System?

What Is the Transtar No Mix Refinishing System?

The Transtar No Mix Refinishing System is an advanced, easy-to-use refinishing system designed to simplify the paint process. As its name suggests, the system eliminates the need to mix paints or materials, allowing you to focus on achieving a flawless finish without the stress of potential errors.

The system is ideal for everything from small touch-ups to full panel restoration jobs. Transtar has engineered this solution to be versatile, efficient, and reliable, meeting the needs of both professional body shops and weekend warriors.

Transtar No Mix Auto Body Paint System

Key Benefits 

1. Time-Saving Precision

Mixing paint requires careful measurements, proper tools, and time—lots of it. With the Transtar No Mix system, you can skip this step entirely. This means more time focusing on the application, reducing overall job time, and increasing productivity in your workshop.

2. Consistent Color Matching

One of the biggest challenges in auto body refinishing is achieving consistent color matching. Transtar’s pre-formulated colors ensure that you get the exact shade you need every time. No more guesswork or costly mistakes! Whether you’re repairing scratches, or dents, or repainting a full panel, the color accuracy is spot-on.

3. Enhanced Finish Quality

The No Mix system provides a smooth and professional finish that meets or exceeds industry standards. It’s formulated to work well with both OEM and custom finishes, ensuring excellent adhesion and long-lasting durability.

4. Less Waste, More Efficiency

Since there’s no need to mix paint in batches, you’ll reduce waste and save on materials. You’ll only use what’s necessary for the job at hand, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice.

Transtar No Mix Formula to Scale

How to Use 

Using the Transtar No Mix Refinishing System is straightforward:

  1. Preparation: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and properly prepped for refinishing. Remove any rust, old paint, or debris before starting.
  2. Application: Apply the Transtar No Mix product using a spray gun or other application tool. Follow the specific instructions for drying times and layering.
  3. Curing: Allow sufficient time for curing to ensure the finish bonds properly and maintains its durability.
  4. Finishing Touches: If needed, polish or buff the finished surface to achieve the desired gloss or sheen.

Why Choose Transtar?

Transtar has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality refinishing products that professionals trust. Their No Mix Refinishing System is no exception, offering superior performance and simplicity in one package. With over 40 years of industry experience, Transtar continues to lead the way in innovation and customer satisfaction.

In the world of automotive refinishing, efficiency and precision are key. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a DIY enthusiast, achieving that perfect finish can often be time-consuming and tricky. Fortunately, Transtar’s innovative No Mix Refinishing System has changed the game, offering a hassle-free solution that ensures top-tier results without mixing.

Why High-Quality Auto Body Refinishing Products Are Essential for Your Vehicle’s Aesthetics and Longevity

Why High-Quality Auto Body Refinishing Products Are Essential for Your Vehicle’s Aesthetics and Longevity

When it comes to auto body refinishing, the quality of the materials used can significantly affect the appearance and durability of the vehicle’s finish. In this blog post, we’ll explore why investing in high-quality refinishing products is crucial for achieving professional results and long-lasting finishes. We will also highlight some of our company’s top products, ensuring your vehicle shines and endures.

The Foundation of Quality: Paints and Coatings

The primary component in any auto refinishing job is the paint. High-quality paints contain better pigments, resins, and additives that ensure a richer color, superior adhesion, and greater resistance to fading and chalking. For instance, our premium line of water-based or solvent-based paints provides exceptional durability and a glossy finish that withstands harsh weather conditions and UV exposure. This type of paint is less prone to cracking, peeling, and erosion, making it a wise choice for any vehicle owner looking to enhance and protect their investment.

Paints and Coatings

Primers and Sealers: The Critical First Steps of Auto Body Refinishing 

The application of high-quality primers and sealers is essential for a flawless finish. These products ensure proper paint adhesion to the car’s body and can significantly enhance the lifespan of the paint job. Our epoxy primers, for example, are designed to offer excellent corrosion resistance and create a strong bond between the metal and the topcoat. Using a high-quality sealer can also protect the underlying material from moisture, preventing rust and further degradation.

DeBeer Primers and Sealers

 

 

 

Clear Coats: The Shield Against the Elements

A high-quality clear coat is what gives the painted surface its glossy finish and depth of color. It also serves as a protective barrier against scratches, contaminants, and environmental elements. Our line of acrylic urethane clear coats provides a high-gloss finish that not only enhances the vehicle’s appearance but also extends the life of the paint job by providing a tough, protective layer that is resistant to weathering and chemical exposure.

DeBeer Clear Coats

The Role of Professional-Grade Thinners and Additives for Auto Body Refinishing 

Using professional-grade thinners and additives is crucial for achieving the desired finish and consistency of the paint. These products help in the application process, ensuring the paint sprays evenly and adhere properly without running or sagging. Our specially formulated thinners are designed to work seamlessly with our paints, enhancing their performance and ensuring a smooth, even coat.

DeBeer Thinners

Why Quality Matters

Investing in high-quality refinishing products is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about value and longevity. Cheaper alternatives may save money upfront but often lead to higher costs down the line. This is because of the need for frequent touch-ups and refinishing. Moreover, a well-maintained vehicle with a professional-quality paint job provides value to your body shop. You will keep clients coming back to your body shop for their refinishing needs.

Highlighting Our Top Auto Body Refinishing Products

To help our customers achieve the best results, we offer a range of top-tier products, including:

DeBeers Paint: Known for its durability and brilliant finish.

DeBeers High Solids Clear Coat: Ensures a durable, shiny finish that lasts.

DeBeers Primers and Surfacers: Offers superior adhesion and protection.

In conclusion, using high-quality refinishing products is not merely a choice but a necessity. Doing this will provide premium results and a long-lasting finish. At Ben-Ami Autocare, we understand the importance of quality and provide our customers with the best products.

 

Shopping cart close