Automotive refinishing goes far beyond applying a new coat of paint. It is a technical and thorough process that requires accuracy, experience, and the right supplies at every stage. Whether you work in a collision repair shop, restoration facility, or automotive detailing business, this guide will guide you on how to achieve outstanding results using specialized products from FANDELI, a leading brand in abrasives and automotive refinishing products.Forma

What is automotive refinishing?

Automotive refinishing is the set of processes that restore a vehicle to its original aesthetic appearance after damage from a collision, scratches, or wearing. It involves five main phases:

1. Damaged paint removal
2. Structural sheet metal repair
3. Filler or putty application
4. Surface preparation for painting
5. Painting, polishing, and final finishing

For every stage of the process, FANDELI has developed a specialized line of abrasives designed to maximize performance, minimize operating times, and deliver professional finish.

Phase 1: Sheet Metal Repair – Bodywork

In this stage, damaged paint is stripped away, rust is removed, and the sheet metal geometry is restored using a hammer and dolly or tools such as a spotter. Selecting an abrasive that is gentle on the metal structure yet aggressive enough to eliminate impurities and properly prepare the surface is essential.

Recommended products:

Conditioning Disc Removal Disc 
Designed for rapid cleaning of paint and rust.

Ideal for fast removal of paint and rust. Features a quick-change system.
Applications: Steel, non-ferrous metals, and lacquered surfaces.Forma

Phase 2: Leveling and Surface Preparation

Once the sheet has been repaired, it is essential to smooth out any imperfections and create the proper texture to ensure optimal adhesion of the primer or base coats. At this stage, sanding may be performed either dry or wet, depending on the workshop’s preferred technique.

Recommended products:

PROTECH H-99 Water Sheet
Waterproof sandpaper with a non-slip backing. Ideal for both wet and dry sanding applications.
Applications: Lacquer and paint.
Advantage: Achieves a uniform finish with durable silicon carbide.

BW80 SPEEDKUT Stearate Blade
High cutting speed with excellent resistance to clogging. Ensures precise contour leveling.
Applications: Steel, automotive paints, and plastics.

Phase 3: Primer Application and Base Sanding

After applying the primer, the surface must be carefully sanded to eliminate defects and create a uniform base. This step requires abrasives that are gentle enough to avoid deep scratches or compromising the primer layer.

FAQ

– What sandpaper should be used after applying automotive primer?
Use wet sandpaper with grits ranging from P320 to P600 (BW80 CC and PC 26 families) to achieve a smooth, even finish before applying the color base coat.

Phase 4: Clear Coat, Polishing, and Defect Correction

The transparent coating must be applied to a contaminant-free, level surface. During the correction phase, imperfections are removed to achieve the desired final shine.

FANDELI Products for Finishing:

B-99 PLUS Sheet (microfine) PC26 1000 – 2000 and B99 1000 – 2500
Water-resistant sandpaper with microabrasive for pre-polishing. Highly flexible, does not scratch varnish. Uses: Correcting defects in varnish.

Double-Sided Buffing Pad – For Cutting or Polishing
An essential accessory for mechanical polishing. Removes sanding marks with micro-grit abrasives.
Application: Lacquer and paint.

Black Polishing Sponge
Used in the final stage of polishing. Ideal for achieving a mirror-like finish.
Benefit: Provides uniformity with zero holograms.

Phase 5: Polishing and Waxing

This phase defines the quality of the final finish. FANDELI offers specialized compounds to remove scratches and holograms for a deep, long-lasting shine.

Recommended Products:

PROTECH Polishing
A professional-grade, silicone- and filler-free formula that eliminates scratches from micro-fine sandpapers.
Uses: All types of paint, including solid and metallic colors.

PROTECH Finishing Polish
A professional-grade, silicone- and filler-free formula that eliminates scratches from micro-fine sandpapers.
Tip: Use an orbital polisher for consistent, uniform coverage.

Benefits of Using the FANDELI Line for Automotive Refinishing

✅ Full compatibility: Works with all automotive paint systems.
✅ Efficiency: Reduces processing time and minimizes wear for the user.
✅ Premium finishes: Ensures flawless results from sanding to final shine.
✅ Durability: Long-lasting abrasives.
✅ Cost-effectiveness: Optimized value for each product.

 

How to Select the Right Abrasive

Process	FANDELI Product	Application Type
Rust/paint removal	Remover Disc 76426	Initial roughing
Paste repair	Laminated Disc BW80 CC and PC 26	Leveling and shaping
Wet sanding	PROTECH H-99 / B-99 PLUS / PC 26	Fine finish, pre-polishing
Dry sanding	BW80 SPEEDKUT CC and PC 26	Fast and uniform leveling
Fast and uniform leveling	Double-sided buffing	Correction and final shine
Final polishing	Polish / Black sponge	Protection and mirror finish

FAQ

– What abrasive should I use to remove automotive paint?
Use conditioning discs or removal discs such as FANDELI’s 76426. They are safe for sheet metal and remove paint without leaving residue.

– What is the best sandpaper for leveling putty?
The FANDELI disc offers an optimal combination of aggressiveness and smooth finish. On flat surfaces, BW80, CC 26, or PC 26 abrasives are recommended.

– Can I sand dry and wet?
Yes. Sheets such as PROTECH H-99 allow both applications. FANDELI offers you flexibility according to your working technique. Dry sanding BW80 CC and PC 26 on discs and sheets.

Automotive refinishing is a blend of skill, experience, and dependable materials. FND not only provides top-quality abrasives but also delivers a comprehensive solution for every stage of the process. From paint removal to the final shine, you can rely on their technology and expertise to achieve long-lasting, high-quality results. If you want to elevate the quality of your work, save time, and enhance the final finish, choose FANDELI. More than just abrasives, FND represents performance, efficiency, and confidence.

Do you need a printable guide or training for your workshop?

Download our automotive refinishing catalog at www.fandeli.com