Maaco’s 6-Step Painting Process

Established in 1972, Maaco is among the premier vehicle paint and collision repair companies in North America, with franchises in 44 U.S. states and six Canadian provinces. Branded as “America’s Bodyshop,” it has served more than 20 million people since its inception. The company promotes itself as a customer-friendly business, with affordable rates and reliable services supported by a nationwide warranty. In regard to its paint packages, Maaco offers a basic paint, preferred paint, and premium paint service.

While the premium paint is a two-stage service that provides a glossier finish and carries a longer warranty, all three packages follow the same six steps to ensure a perfect “MAACOVER.” To start, Maaco’s expertly trained technicians provide customers with a free estimate. Once the work has been approved, technicians begin the six-step body repair process.

Step 1: The first step involves the elimination of any blemishes, including unsightly scratches and small dents, from the vehicle. For dents, technicians grind away all paint from the targeted area and then work the body back to its original shape. This is followed by the application of a filler, which is then sanded and glazed; second and third coats of filler are added if necessary. Once dried, the area is sanded again and coated with a special grade of sealer.

Step 2: From there, technicians perform any necessary surface repairs to ensure the vehicle receives the highest possible gloss and smoothest finish. It’s not uncommon for small cracks to appear on a car’s surface over time, and if left untreated, these cracks can begin to penetrate the top coat of paint within a few years. This can ultimately cause the paint to peel and reveal bare metal. Heavy sanding is typically required in this case; in some instances, Maaco technicians have to strip the vehicle down to bare metal before beginning the painting process.

Step 3: To ensure the best possible gloss and shine longevity, Maaco technicians apply a surface sealer to the vehicle. This creates a barrier over the old paint, so that the new paint job maintains color consistency throughout, in addition to a higher gloss. Maaco offers three grades of sealer, the most effective being its premium urethane-based sealer, which has a special mixture that helps it bond more effectively with bare metal.

Step 4: Maaco customers can select from one of the three paint packages. The basic package includes the application of a single coat of enamel paint; the preferred paint package also includes a single coat but uses urethane, which is more resilient against chipping. The premium package, meanwhile, involves a two-stage process that leaves paint more durable, with the best possible glossy finish.

Step 5: A clear coat is typically applied to vehicles, both to protect the paint and to ensure gloss match accuracy.

Step 6: The final step of the process is in the hands of the owner of the vehicle. To maintain the glossy appearance and preserve the durability of the finish, vehicle owners should park in the shade but away from trees when possible. They should also avoid driving on sand or loose gravel, and wash and wax the vehicle regularly. The first waxing should be performed within six weeks of the paint job, with regular waxing performed every three or four months thereafter.