where is the paint code on a car

That moment you notice a new chip or scratch on your car’s paint can be a little heartbreaking. Whether you’re planning a professional repair or a simple DIY touch-up, matching the color perfectly is the key to a seamless finish. The secret to finding the exact shade lies in a small but crucial piece of information: your car’s paint code. Knowing where is the paint code on a car is the first step to getting a perfect color match and restoring your vehicle’s flawless appearance.

The Most Common Places to Find Your Paint Code

While the location can vary by manufacturer, there are a few usual suspects you can check first. The most common place to look is inside the driver’s side door jamb. Open the door and look for a sticker or metal plate on the door frame or the central pillar (the B-pillar). This sticker contains vital information about your vehicle, including tire pressure and, importantly, the paint code. It’s often labeled clearly as “Paint,” “Color Code,” or “C/TR.”

Other Spots to Check for the Code

If you don’t find the code in the door jamb, don’t worry. Car manufacturers sometimes place this information in other accessible areas. A frequent alternative is under the hood. Check the strut towers (where the shock absorbers mount), the radiator support, or the firewall (the wall between the engine and the passenger compartment). The code might be on a sticker or stamped directly onto a metal surface. The glove box is another good spot; sometimes the code is printed on a sticker inside or on the service manual.

How to Decode the Paint Information

Once you locate the sticker, you’ll likely see a combination of letters and numbers. The paint code itself is usually a short sequence, like “GJW” or “B90.” It’s important not to confuse this with the longer Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). While the VIN can sometimes be used by professionals to find paint information, the specific paint code is much more direct and reliable for purchasing touch-up paint. If you’re unsure, take a clear photo of the entire sticker and show it to an auto parts store associate for help.

What to Do When You Have Your Code

With your paint code in hand, you’re ready to get an exact match. You can visit an automotive paint supplier, a dealership parts department, or order online from a reputable touch-up paint company. Simply provide them with your car’s make, model, year, and the paint code. They will be able to mix or supply the precise color you need in a pen, spray can, or bottle.

Locating your car’s paint code is a simple task that saves you time, money, and the frustration of a mismatched repair. With this small bit of information, you can confidently tackle any minor paint flaw and keep your car looking its best for years to come.