Do dealerships sell touch-up paint?
Yes. Dealerships typically offer OEM touch-up paint in color-matched formats at the parts counter, and they can order exact shades for your vehicle.
Color-matched touch-up products from dealerships are usually tied to your car’s color code or VIN. Availability varies by brand and dealer, but most offer paint pens or small bottles in factory shades, and some kits include primer and clear coat. If you don’t have the color code handy, the parts staff can retrieve it from your VIN.
What dealerships typically offer for touch-up paint
Dealerships typically stock or can order the following touch-up options to match your car's factory finish.
- OEM color-matched touch-up paint pens or small bottles, formulated for precise color matches with your vehicle's paint code.
- Primer and clear-coat products designed to be used with the base paint for a durable finish.
- Touch-up spray cans or aerosol kits for larger chips or panels, when a pen or bottle isn't practical.
- Color-code lookup and VIN-based color matching services to ensure the closest factory shade.
In practice, you can usually pick a convenient format and either perform the repair yourself or seek guidance from the parts staff on proper prep and application.
How to obtain and use dealership touch-up paint
Here’s a practical approach to getting the right color and applying it correctly, whether you buy at the dealership or from an aftermarket source later.
Format options at a glance
- Locate your color code: check the door jamb sticker, under the hood, or the vehicle documentation; if needed, the VIN can be used to retrieve the exact shade from the dealer.
- Visit the dealership parts counter with your VIN or color code to request OEM touch-up paint, including any recommended primer or clear coat; confirm lead time and price.
- Choose the correct format for your repair: paint pen for small chips, bottle with brush for scattered chips, or spray kit for larger areas; ask for the included applicators and instructions.
- Prep and apply carefully: wash and dry the area, lightly sand rough edges, mask surrounding surfaces, apply thin, even coats, allow adequate dry time between coats, then apply clear coat if included.
Dealership staff can advise on whether a professional repair is preferable for deeper scratches or if blending into surrounding panels is required.
Summary
Dealerships generally offer OEM touch-up paint in color-matched pens, bottles, or spray kits, and can order the exact shade using your color code or VIN. While convenient and precise, dealership touch-up products can be pricier than aftermarket options. For many small blemishes, this is a solid, color-accurate option; for budget concerns or unusual colors, you may explore reputable aftermarket suppliers or professional body shop services.
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.
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.
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.
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.
