What is my Ford paint code?

Your Ford paint code is the short alphanumeric color identifier printed on your vehicle’s exterior color label. It identifies the factory color and is essential for matching touch-up paint and coatings.

Where to find the Ford paint code

Ford places the exterior color code on the vehicle information labels that are located in a few common spots. The most reliable location is the driver’s door jamb label, but depending on the model year or region, the code may also appear inside the glove box, under the hood near the radiator support, or on a sticker in the trunk. Look for a field labeled Exterior Color, Paint, or COAT on the label.

Common locations to check on most Ford vehicles:

• Driver’s door jamb label: read the small code listed for Exterior Color or Paint


• Inside the glove box: on the label attached to the box or its lid


• Under the hood: near the radiator support or on a decal on the engine bay


• In the trunk: on a sticker near the latch in some sedans or SUVs

If you cannot locate the code, consult the owner's manual, contact a Ford dealer, or use your VIN to look up the build sheet or the official color database.

How to read and use your Ford paint code

Once you have the code, you can identify the exact color name and finish and then order the correct touch-up paint or spray. Note that Ford codes can vary by year, market, and edition, so it’s important to verify the color name and finish before purchasing.

Steps to verify and use the code effectively:

1. Record the code exactly as it appears (including letters and numbers).


2. Check the vehicle’s model year and region to ensure you’re referencing the correct color list, since codes can change over time or by market.


3. Cross-reference the code with Ford’s official color database or a trusted automotive color catalog to confirm the color name and finish.


4. Identify the correct paint type and packaging (basecoat, clearcoat, primer) required for your repaint project.


5. Order a color-matched product and, if possible, obtain a physical color swatch or chip to compare before application.

By following these steps, you increase the likelihood of a seamless color match for your Ford project.

Interior vs exterior codes and regional variations

Exterior paint codes identify the body color, while interior trim colors have separate codes. Some special edition colors or regional options may use unique codes or multiple codes for related shades. When in doubt, verify with a Ford dealer or use the VIN to pull the exact specification for your vehicle.

Tips to avoid common pitfalls

Don’t assume a color name matches across years or markets. Always confirm the code against the specific year, model, and region of your vehicle, and if possible, compare against a physical paint swatch before purchasing large quantities of paint.

Summary

To identify your Ford paint code, locate the exterior color label on the driver’s door jamb or another label on the vehicle, read the code listed for Exterior Color or Paint, then cross-reference it with Ford’s color lists to confirm the exact color name and finish. If you share your model year, region, and the code you found, I can help you identify the precise color and recommend matching paints and finishes.

How do I find my Ford paint color code?

Find your vehicle's paint code located on your vehicle's door jamb label. The exterior paint code will be labeled as EXT PNT followed by two characters.

What is my paint code by VIN?

You can use your VIN to find your car's paint code by checking a vehicle history report, using an online VIN decoder, or asking your car dealership. The VIN itself doesn't contain the paint code, but it contains the information needed to look it up in a database. 
Method 1: Check VIN history or use an online decoder 

• Vehicle History Report: Enter your VIN on a website like J.D. Power to generate a report that may include the paint code. 
• VIN Decoders: Search for "paint code by VIN" on the web and use an online decoder tool. These sites use your VIN to find your car's information in their database. 
• Be aware: Some online decoders may not have data for older or brand-new vehicles. Always double-check the information you find, as some online services may show possible paint variations and not the exact code for your vehicle. 

Method 2: Contact your dealership

• Call your car's dealership and provide them with your VIN. They can look up the specific paint code in their system. 

Method 3: Look for the code on your car

• While not directly in the VIN, the paint code is often listed on a sticker in your vehicle, which you can find with the help of your VIN. 
• Check the driver's side door jamb or the door edge for a sticker with the paint code, notes AutoZone. 
• Other common locations include the firewall in the engine compartment or the B-pillar. 
• Look for a sticker that has your VIN, manufacturing information, and a specific code for the paint. 

How to tell paint code from VIN Ford?

Your car's VIN gives you a lot of information about your vehicle, but it won't give you your paint code to find your car's touch up paint. So, where can you go to find automotive paint color? Most vehicles have paint codes listed inside the driver's door jamb.

Can I check paint code by reg?

Finding your paint code by reg is the easiest method but it's not always possible - but it's not difficult to find it in other ways. Car manufacturers generally record the original paint code of your car in the boot, under the bonnet, or inside the door jamb. The codes looks like a short list of letters and numbers.