In collision repair, what should be done before painting a vehicle?

Prior to painting a vehicle, comprehensive surface preparation is essential to ensure the best adhesion and finish quality of the paint. This preparation typically involves cleaning the surface to remove dirt, grease, and any contaminants that could interfere with the paint's adherence. Sanding is also critical, as it helps to create a smooth surface and provides texture for the primer and paint to bond effectively. Additionally, applying a primer is necessary to enhance adhesion, improve durability, and promote a uniform finish.

Immediate application of paint without any preparation would result in poor adhesion and could lead to peeling, chipping, or other deficiencies in the paint job. While assessing customer preferences for colors is part of the overall process, it does not address the required technical steps for preparing the surface prior to painting. Removing non-paintable parts, while it could be part of a thorough repair process, is not specifically required before painting and may vary based on the area being painted and the vehicle's specifics. Importantly, comprehensive surface preparation is a foundational step that cannot be overlooked in collision repair and refinishing.