Comprehensive Denting & Painting Process
At SALV MOTORS, our denting and painting work is so precise and clean that in most cases, the vehicle inspection officers do not even request a CCM (Chassis Condition Monitoring) check. We restore every vehicle to factory-grade appearance and alignment, leaving no visible signs of prior damage or structural repair. Our aim is to ensure that the vehicle is presented in such flawless condition that it passes the UAE vehicle test in the first go—without raising a single concern.
Maximizing returns for investors by ensuring fast, clean, test-passed vehicle turnover.
Initial Assessment and Documentation
Vehicle Inspection
- Complete 360° visual assessment of vehicle body condition
- Document all damage with photographs for reference
- Create detailed work order specifying required repairs
- Assign priority level based on damage severity
Damage Classification
- Minor dents (PDR-eligible repairs)
- Major structural damage requiring panel replacement
- Surface scratches vs. deep paint damage
- Rust/corrosion assessment
Disassembly and Preparation
Parts Removal
- Carefully remove all affected exterior components
- Document and organize removed parts for reassembly
- Cover electronic components and interior to prevent contamination
- Remove chrome/plastic trims that cannot withstand paint process
Surface Preparation
- Thoroughly clean vehicle surface with degreasing agents
- Remove old paint/primer from damaged areas
- Sand affected areas to create proper adhesion surface
- Mask areas not requiring paint with high-quality automotive masking materials
Dent Repair Process
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)
- Used for minor dents without paint damage
- Access reverse side of panel when possible
- Apply gradual pressure with specialized tools
- Work from outside edges toward center of dent
Conventional Dent Repair
- Hammer and dolly techniques for larger dents
- Heat application for stubborn areas to increase metal flexibility
- Body filler application for severely damaged sections:
- Mix polyester body filler according to manufacturer specifications
- Apply in thin layers rather than single thick layer
- Allow proper curing time between applications
- Progressive sanding (40-80-120-180-240 grit)
- Metal shrinking techniques for stretched panels
Panel Replacement
- Cut and remove severely damaged sections
- Weld new panels using manufacturer-specified techniques
- Grind welds to achieve seamless finish
- Apply anti-corrosion treatment to all bare metal surfaces
Advanced Body Work
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)
- Used for minor dents without paint damage
- Access reverse side of panel when possible
- Apply gradual pressure with specialized tools
- Work from outside edges toward center of dent
Conventional Dent Repair
- Hammer and dolly techniques for larger dents
- Heat application for stubborn areas to increase metal flexibility
- Body filler application for severely damaged sections:
- Mix polyester body filler according to manufacturer specifications
- Apply in thin layers rather than single thick layer
- Allow proper curing time between applications
- Progressive sanding (40-80-120-180-240 grit)
- Metal shrinking techniques for stretched panels
Panel Replacement
- Cut and remove severely damaged sections
- Weld new panels using manufacturer-specified techniques
- Grind welds to achieve seamless finish
- Apply anti-corrosion treatment to all bare metal surfaces
Priming System
Surface Preparation for Primer
- Final cleaning with tack cloth to remove all dust
- Apply etching primer to bare metal surfaces
- Use plastic adhesion promoter for non-metal components
Primer Application
- Apply 2K high-build primer in controlled environment
- Maintain recommended spray distance (6-8 inches)
- Apply 2-3 coats with proper flash time between coats
- Allow full curing according to manufacturer specifications
Primer Surfacing
- Block sand with progressively finer sandpaper (320-400-600 grit)
- Apply guide coat to identify imperfections
- Address any remaining low spots with spot putty
- Final wet sanding to achieve perfectly smooth surface
Painting (Body Shop Work)
Paint Selection Process
- Identify factory paint code from vehicle documentation
- Computer color matching to account for paint aging/fading
- Create test samples for verification before full application
- Adjust formulation as needed for perfect match
Paint Booth Preparation
- Temperature control (24-26°C)
- Humidity control (45-55%)
- Dust removal using ionization system
- Final wipe down with anti-static solution
Paint Application
Base Coat Application
- Apply color in multiple thin coats (typically 3-4)
- Allow proper flash time between coats (10-15 minutes)
- Extend paint application beyond repair area for seamless blend
- Verify color matching under multiple light sources
Special Finishes (When Applicable)
- Metallic/pearl application techniques
- Candy coat layering process
- Custom effect creation process
- Blend zone management for color transitions
Clear Coat Application
- Apply 2-3 coats of premium automotive clear coat
- Maintain wet appearance during application
- Ensure adequate mil thickness for durability and depth
- Allow proper flash time between coats
Curing and Hardening
Baking Process
- Infrared or conventional baking at manufacturer-specified temperature
- Timed curing cycles based on paint system requirements
- Controlled cooling to prevent defects
- Minimum 24-hour post-cure hardening period
Post-Paint Finishing
Paint Correction Process
- Wet sand clear coat if needed (1500-2000-3000 grit)
- Machine polishing with diminishing abrasive compounds
- Jeweling process for maximum gloss
- Final hand polishing for swirl-free finish
Quality Control Inspection
- Assess under various lighting conditions
- Check for orange peel, runs, sags, or dust inclusions
- Verify color match from all viewing angles
- Thickness gauge testing for proper material application
Reassembly and Final Detailing
Vehicle Reassembly
- Careful reinstallation of all removed components
- Torque specifications followed for all fasteners
- Rubber seal/gasket inspection and replacement if needed
- All clips and fasteners replaced with new ones when necessary
Final Detailing
- Full vehicle cleaning and decontamination
- Paint protection application (wax, sealant, or ceramic coating)
- Glass cleaning and treatment
- Tire and trim restoration
Pre-Testing Inspection
Final Quality Checks
- Detailed inspection of all repaired areas
- Weather testing for water tightness
- Road test to check for rattles or wind noise
- Documentation of completed work with photographs
UAE Vehicle Testing Preparation
- Ensure all body panels are properly aligned to specifications
- Verify chassis/VIN visibility and condition
- Confirm all lights function correctly
- Validate that no structural components show evidence of previous damage
Documentation
Completion Records
- Document all work performed with detailed breakdown
- Record paint materials used (for future reference)
- Note any specific techniques used for unique repairs
- Provide warranty information for completed work
Customer Delivery Package
- Vehicle care instructions
- Paint warranty documentation
- Before/after comparison photographs
- Paint code and material information for future reference
This comprehensive process ensures that all salvaged vehicles meet or exceed UAE vehicle testing standards without CCM (Chassis Condition Measurement) check concerns, preserving both safety and value.