Buffalo Customs & Collision, an independent, owner-operated collision repair shop in San Antonio, Texas, is highlighting its investment in digital paint color matching technology as part of its commitment to OEM-quality repairs.
The shop has adopted the PPG DigiMatch system, a compact multi-angle spectrophotometer and digital color camera designed specifically for collision repair environments. The device reads the color and texture of a vehicle’s existing finish and connects to PPG’s global color database to recommend highly accurate refinish formulas.
“Drivers notice paint long before they notice frame rails or welds,” said owner Chad Richardson. “If the color is off, it undermines their confidence in the entire repair. We brought in PPG DigiMatch to take the guesswork out of color selection and give our San Antonio customers a finish that looks like it never needed repair.”
According to PPG, digital tools like DigiMatch can capture color information from multiple angles, including how metallics and pearls behave under different lighting. That data is then processed through cloud-connected color software, which searches millions of formulas and variants to find the closest match to the vehicle’s current appearance—not just the factory code.
At Buffalo Customs & Collision, the process begins with a thorough structural and cosmetic repair plan. Once panels are repaired and prepped, a technician uses DigiMatch on an undamaged section near the repair area. Painters then mix a recommended PPG formula, verify it with controlled spray-out test panels, and blend the color into adjacent panels as needed.
Richardson explained that this approach offers two major benefits for customers: improved match accuracy and reduced rework. Traditional color matching methods often rely on printed chips and visual comparisons, which can require multiple attempts to get right—especially on complex finishes. Digital measurement helps painters narrow in on the correct variant more quickly, which can keep repair timelines on track and reduce the chance of a vehicle coming back for a repaint.
Buffalo’s team also notes that accurate color matching plays an important role in maintaining a vehicle’s value. Obvious color differences between panels can signal prior damage to potential buyers or appraisers, even when the underlying repairs are structurally sound. In a sunny market like San Antonio, where UV exposure is high year-round, a properly matched and protected finish is critical to long-term appearance.
“Paint is part of the safety and value story,” Richardson said. “You need sound structural repairs, but you also need coatings that protect from the elements and a color match that doesn’t scream ‘this car was wrecked.’ Using digital tools helps us deliver both.”
Buffalo Customs & Collision serves drivers throughout San Antonio and surrounding communities such as Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, Stone Oak, Shavano Park, The Dominion, and Castle Hills. The shop specializes in collision repair, auto body repair, frame and structural work, glass replacement, paint and finish, paintless dent repair, ADAS calibration, and light mechanical services. All workmanship is backed by a lifetime warranty for as long as the customer owns the vehicle.
Contact Information
Buffalo Customs & Collision
13734 Lookout RdSan Antonio, TX 78233
Phone: (210) 773-4708
About Buffalo Customs & Collision
Buffalo Customs & Collision is a boutique, owner-operated auto body and collision repair shop located in San Antonio, Texas. Founded by veteran technician Chad Richardson, the shop focuses on OEM repair procedures, advanced refinish technology, and strong customer advocacy during the insurance claim process. Buffalo provides collision repair, auto body repair, frame repair, glass replacement, paint and finish, paintless dent repair, ADAS calibration, and light mechanical services, and backs its workmanship with a lifetime warranty.
