Before ordering paint for a bodywork repair, always find out your car's colour code. It is not simply a colour name — it is a unique alphanumeric code that precisely identifies the exact shade the factory applied during production.
Why do you need the code rather than the colour name?
Car manufacturers often keep the same colour name for many years — for example, "Brilliant Silver" or "Arctic White". However, the actual shade can change slightly from year to year: a little lighter, a little darker. Each such change receives a new code.
If you rely on the name alone, you may receive paint that differs noticeably from your bodywork. That is why professional colour matching always begins with the colour code.
Where is the factory data plate located?
Every manufacturer places its information sticker or metal plate in its own preferred spot. The most common locations are:
- Driver's door jamb — the most popular location (VW, BMW, Audi, Skoda, Mercedes, Hyundai, Kia)
- B-pillar on the driver's side (visible when the door is open)
- Engine compartment — on the firewall or radiator support (Honda, Toyota, Nissan)
- Boot/trunk area — on the inner side panel or under the spare-wheel cover
- Glovebox — on the inner side of the lid (some Fiat, Alfa Romeo models)
Factory data plate examples
Volkswagen
On VW Group vehicles (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, SEAT, Porsche) the factory sticker is usually found on the driver's door jamb or under the boot floor. The paint code appears in the row marked "C" or without a separate letter, in alphanumeric format (for example, LR7N, LC9X, LY3D).
The photo shows the sticker from a Volkswagen Touran. The arrow points to paint code LR7N. Alongside it you can see the VIN, engine code, gearbox code and other technical data. Do not confuse these codes with each other.
Honda
On Honda vehicles the data plate is typically located on the B-pillar on the driver's side. The colour code appears in the bottom row of the plate and usually consists of letters and digits (for example, YR562PX, NH731P).
The photo shows the factory data plate of a Honda manufactured by Honda of America Mfg. The paint code YR562PX is highlighted in yellow marker. Quote this code when ordering paint to ensure an exact colour match.
Other makes
| Make | Where to look | Code format |
|---|---|---|
| BMW | Engine compartment or driver's door jamb | 3 digits (e.g. 475, 300) |
| Mercedes | Driver's door pillar, radiator support | 3 digits (e.g. 197, 992) |
| Toyota / Lexus | Driver's door pillar or engine compartment | 3 characters (e.g. 1G3, 202) |
| Hyundai / Kia | Driver's door pillar, engine compartment | 2–3 characters (e.g. NKA, MZH) |
| Renault / Dacia | Driver's door pillar | 3 characters (e.g. NV676, KNG) |
| Opel | Under the bonnet or door pillar | 2–4 characters (e.g. GAN, Z167) |
| Mazda | Driver's door jamb or engine bay | 2–3 characters (e.g. 46V, 41W) |
| Fiat / Alfa Romeo | Glovebox, driver's door pillar | 3–4 characters (e.g. 612, 876/B) |
What are colour alternatives?
Some paint codes have several alternatives — variations of one colour (lighter, darker, different sheen). A single code can have up to 15 alternatives. If you are unsure which one applies, choose the zero alternative — this is the standard factory shade.
Types of automotive paint
It is important to know not only the code but also the type of paint on your car:
- Solid (acrylic enamel) — a plain, single-tone paint with no special effect; two-component (with hardener). Clear coat is optional but recommended for extra protection.
- Metallic (base coat) — contains aluminium particles that create a characteristic sparkle. Must be top-coated with clear coat (usually 1.5–2 coats).
- Pearl — contains micro-pigments that shift the shade depending on the viewing angle. Also requires a clear coat.
- Tri-coat (tricoat) — the most complex type: base coat + colour coat + clear coat. Typical of premium colours (pearl white, candy red).
How to find the code using the VIN number?
If the data plate is damaged or missing, the colour code can be obtained via the VIN (17-character body number). The VIN appears in the registration documents and is stamped on the bodywork (under the windscreen or on the B-pillar). Give our manager the VIN and we will identify the paint code through the manufacturer’s database.
Found the code? Order your paint!
Once you have the colour code, you can use our online paint selector. Choose the make and model of your car, or enter the code directly — the system will show available colours, paint type and price. Minimum order from 300 ml.
Tip: before applying, always test the matched paint on an inconspicuous area of the bodywork. This ensures an exact colour match and protects you from costly mistakes.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Where on the car is the paint code located?▾
Why can't you match paint using just the colour name?▾
How do I find the paint code from the VIN number?▾
What are colour alternatives?▾
What is the minimum paint order quantity?▾
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