How do I find out what color my car is originally?
Understanding the original color of your car can be essential for various reasons, such as restoring its appearance, selling it, or simply satisfying your curiosity. In this article, we will explore several methods to help you determine the original color of your vehicle.
Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Your car's VIN is a unique identifier that can provide a wealth of information, including the original color. Here’s how to use it:
- Locate your VIN, which is usually found on the driver's side dashboard or inside the driver's side door frame.
- Visit the manufacturer's website or contact their customer service to request the original specifications associated with your VIN.
Examine the Manufacturer's Label
Most vehicles come with a manufacturer's label that includes important information about the car, including its original color. Follow these steps:
- Look for the label on the driver's side door jamb or inside the glove compartment.
- Find the color code, which is often a combination of letters and numbers. This code can be cross-referenced with the manufacturer's color chart.
Consult the Owner's Manual
Your car's owner's manual may also contain information about the original color. Check the specifications section for any details regarding paint codes or color options.
Contact a Dealership or Auto Body Shop
If you're still unsure, reaching out to a dealership or a reputable auto body shop can be beneficial. They often have access to databases that can provide the original color based on your VIN or other vehicle details.
Look for Paint Samples
If your car has been repainted, you might find remnants of the original color in less visible areas. Here’s what to do:
- Check under the hood, inside the trunk, or in the wheel wells for any original paint.
- Use a paint chip or sample to compare with color swatches available at auto parts stores.
Conclusion
Finding out your car's original color can be a straightforward process if you know where to look. Whether you check the VIN, examine the manufacturer's label, or consult professionals, these methods will help you uncover the true color of your vehicle. Happy searching!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to match car paint color?
Start by obtaining the paint code – this is a unique code that identifies the colour of your vehicle. You can find this code on a sticker located in the driver's side door jamb, on the firewall under the hood, or in the glove box. Make sure you have the correct paint code for your vehicle's exact colour.
Is there a database for car paint?
PDQ (Paint Data Query) is a database that uses records of automotive paint samples that have been analyzed to identify the subject vehicle's manufacturer, make, model, and year.
Can I find paint color by VIN number?
You can call your dealer, give them your VIN, and ask for the paint code. Another option is searching for paint codes online by using your VIN. Though your VIN won't give you your car's exact paint code or color, it's a tool that will help you find it.
Is there an app that identifies car color?
The DUPLI-COLOR AutoColor-App enables to find very quickly your car colour shade, which you need for the repair with a DUPLI-COLOR Auto-Spray or a matching touch-up pencil. So you can find your colour tone out of a great many of shades in a fast and efficient way – either on the way or in the shop.
Where can I find the original color of my car?
Most vehicles have a vehicle information sticker that lists the VIN and the paint color code. Check the dashboard on the driver's side or the inside of the driver's side door jamb to find this sticker and check the color code. Other possible locations for this sticker include: On the passenger side door jamb.
How to find the exact color of a car?
To find out what colour your car is, you need to track down your paint code. This can usually be found on a plate or sticker inside the driver's door or glovebox.
How do I get exact paint to match my car?
Either use the manufacturer's website or call your selling dealer to retrieve the paint code using the VIN. Once you have the paint code, you can find the right match for your vehicle at AutoZone with ease. Or, if you know the color description rather than the paint code, you can search that way.
How to color match car paint without code?
If obtaining a sample to color-match at your local paint store isn't an option, you can utilize the latest in color-matching apps to match your paint as closely as possible. Use a color-matching tool like the Nix Mini 2 or Datacolor ColorReader EZ.
Will the VIN tell me the color of my car?
VINs are coded in a standard format. so each group of digits correspond to a specific aspect of the vehicle. Paint color is not one of these aspects, in part because the color is relatively easy to change.
How to check original car color?
The plate with the color code of your vehicle can usually be found on the bodywork inside the passenger door. If you can't find the plate there, then you will easily find it inside the driver's door or even sometimes in the trunk.
