Which process follows after determining if alternative finishes have been applied?

The step that follows after determining if alternative finishes have been applied is mixing the color. This is an essential part of the painting process, as it ensures that the correct color match is achieved based on the existing finishes. Proper color matching is critical to achieving a seamless repair or repainting job, especially when dealing with vehicles that may have unique or custom colors.

Determining the finish type enables the technician to understand how the existing layers might affect color application. Different types of finishes can have distinct properties that influence the color mixing process, including the need to adjust for underlying tones or the way the paint will interact with these finishes. Once it is confirmed which alternative finishes are applied, the technician can mix the color accordingly to ensure an optimal result.

The other processes, such as cleaning the surface, applying primer, and applying clearcoat, are vital components that occur at different stages of surface preparation and finishing. However, they come into play after color mixing, making that the decisive next step once the finish types have been assessed.