Can you buy touch up paint from a dealership?
Yes. Dealerships commonly sell OEM touch-up paint through their parts or service departments, but availability varies by brand and location.
This article explains how dealerships source touch-up paint, what you can expect when you ask for it, and practical tips for getting the right color.
What touch-up paint formats do dealerships offer?
Dealerships typically stock OEM touch-up paint in several formats. The exact options depend on the brand, model, and local inventory, but you’ll often find the following:
- Paint pens or small brush bottles containing the exact color code for spot repairs
- Small bottles or jars of OEM touch-up paint for minor chips and scratches
- Spray cans or spray kits that include color-matched paint and a clear coat or sealant
- OEM primer or clear coats sold as part of a repair kit for a complete touch-up job
Dealerships usually source these items through the parts department, and some may order them specifically for a customer if they’re not in stock. Prices tend to reflect OEM quality and the convenience of a color‑matched solution.
How to buy and what to expect
To purchase OEM touch-up paint from a dealership, you’ll typically need to verify your vehicle’s color information. The process often follows these steps:
- Provide your vehicle’s color code or VIN to the parts desk, usually found on the driver’s door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual.
- Confirm the exact color match for your vehicle’s year, make, model, and trim, since colors can vary by production batch.
- Choose the most suitable format (pen, brush bottle, spray can, or a repair kit), noting that some colors may require accompanying primer or a clear coat.
- Place the order and wait for the dealer to pull approved OEM paint or to confirm backorder timelines if it isn’t in stock.
- Pickup or arrange shipping, then follow the application instructions provided by the dealer or the paint manufacturer.
Be aware that some colors, especially specialty finishes like metallics or pearls, may be special-order items and could take longer to obtain. If you’re unsure about a color match, ask to compare a sample or swatch in daylight before purchasing.
Alternatives and tips for getting the right match
If your local dealership cannot provide an exact color match or you’re seeking potentially quicker options, consider these alternatives. They can also help you validate color accuracy before committing to a purchase.
- Use the manufacturer’s official touch-up paint program or online shop, which often offers OEM-matched colors and finishes.
- Visit an auto parts store that sells OEM-matched touch-up paint and supply your color code for a verified match.
- Consult a professional body shop for precise color matching, especially for metallic, pearlescent, or multi-layer finishes.
- Keep a copy of your color code with your vehicle records for any future touch-ups or repairs.
Color matching can be tricky, particularly with metallics, pearls, or two-tone schemes. OEM touch-up products typically yield the most reliable match, while aftermarket options may vary in fidelity.
Summary
Dealerships generally offer OEM touch-up paint through their parts or service departments, and availability can vary by brand and location. If you need a precise color match, bringing your color code or VIN to the dealer helps ensure the correct product. If the dealership cannot accommodate your needs, consider manufacturer official channels or reputable auto parts stores and professional body shops as reliable alternatives.
Do dealerships do paint repair?
Most dealerships equipped to offer auto body work and auto collision repairs can perform paint services. However, these services are typically limited to touch-ups and minor paint repairs. Fewer facilities have the equipment and skills to perform more extensive work, such as complete vehicle repainting.
Do dealerships fix paint scratches?
Former car salesman here- IF you have a good dealer, they will cover the cost of repair. Most bigger dealerships have a dedicated after market person to repair paint/minor damage on-site. Many vehicles are damaged in transit. Bumpers are replaced etc and you never know.
How much do dealerships charge for touch up paint?
The average cost for a professional dealer or auto body shop can charge anywhere from $800-$1200 in 2019. For small jobs it could be anywhere from $500-$800, anything less is not worth their time in labor.
Can you buy touch up paint at a dealership?
You can buy automotive touch up paint that matches your car from the dealership, from auto parts stores, or from online sources such as Amazon.
