A paint code is the factory color identification code assigned to your vehicle when it leaves the manufacturer. This code is used when repairing scratches, repainting a panel, respraying an entire vehicle, or ordering paint that matches the original factory color.
Many vehicle owners rely only on the color name, but color names can vary between manufacturers, model years, and vehicle trims. For this reason, the paint code remains the most accurate way to identify the correct color for your vehicle.
In this guide, you'll learn where to find your car's paint code, how to read paint code labels, and how to locate paint code information for the most popular vehicle brands.
What Is a Car Paint Code?
A car paint code is a unique code assigned by the vehicle manufacturer to identify a specific factory paint color.
The paint code helps accurately identify the original color of the vehicle and serves as the primary reference when ordering matching automotive paint.
Where Can You Find Your Vehicle's Paint Code?
The paint code is usually located on a manufacturer label or sticker inside the vehicle.
Common locations include:
- Driver's door jamb
- Under the hood
- Inside the trunk
- Engine bay labels
- Vehicle information stickers
Vehicle Documents
In some cases, paint code information may also be available in:
- Owner's manual
- Vehicle documentation
- Dealer records
How to Read a Paint Code
The paint code is often listed next to one of the following labels:
- Paint
- Color
- Paint Code
- C/TR
Examples of paint codes include:
- 070
- 085
- 1G3
- NH883P
- PW7
These codes are the correct reference when ordering matching automotive paint.
Before selecting paint products, it is important to identify the correct paint code for your vehicle. Since paint code locations vary by manufacturer, choose your vehicle brand from the list below to view a detailed guide.
Find Your Paint Code by Vehicle Brand
Toyota
Learn where to find Toyota paint codes and how to identify the correct color code.
Lexus
Find the paint code location and color information for Lexus vehicles.
Nissan & Infiniti
Learn how to locate paint codes for Nissan and Infiniti vehicles.
🔗 Nissan & Infiniti Paint Code Guide
MAZDA
Complete guide to MAZDA paint code locations and color identification.
Honda
Complete guide to Honda paint code locations and color identification.
Hyundai & Kia
Find paint code locations and color information for Hyundai and Kia vehicles.
🔗 Hyundai & Kia Paint Code Guide
Chevrolet & GMC
Learn where to find paint codes for Chevrolet and GMC vehicles.
🔗 Chevrolet & GMC Paint Code Guide
Ford
Complete guide to Ford paint code locations and color identification.
BMW
Learn how to find BMW paint codes and factory color information.
Mercedes-Benz
Find Mercedes-Benz paint code locations and color information.
Land Rover & Range Rover
Complete guide to Land Rover and Range Rover paint codes.
Geely
Learn where to find Geely paint codes and color information.
Changan
Complete guide to Changan paint code locations and color identification.
Genesis
Find Genesis paint codes and factory color information.
Mitsubishi
Learn how to locate Mitsubishi paint codes and identify the correct color.
Suzuki
Complete guide to Suzuki paint code locations and color identification.
Isuzu
Find Isuzu paint code locations and color information.
Dodge
Learn where to find Dodge paint codes and factory color information.
Can't Find Your Paint Code?
In some cases, the paint code sticker may be damaged, faded, missing, or difficult to read.
If you cannot locate your vehicle's paint code, you may be able to identify the correct factory color using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the color name enough to identify the correct paint?
No. Color names can vary between manufacturers and model years. The paint code is the most reliable way to identify the exact factory color.
Can I find my paint code using the VIN?
In many cases, yes. The VIN can help identify the original factory color assigned to the vehicle.
Can the same paint code be used across different models?
Yes. If the paint code matches, the factory color is generally the same regardless of the vehicle model.
What if my paint code sticker is missing?
If the label is damaged or missing, you can use the VIN number or contact the manufacturer to obtain the original paint information.