What is paint code K23?
Paint code K23 is a brand-specific color identifier, not a universal color. The exact shade associated with K23 depends on the manufacturer and product line, so to know the precise color you must reference the issuing brand’s color chart or obtain a physical swatch.
In practice, the same alphanumeric code can map to different hues across different brands or coating systems. This article explains how to identify what K23 refers to in your context and how to verify an accurate match for repairs, replacements, or renovations.
Contexts where K23 appears
Paint codes like K23 show up in automotive refinishes, industrial coatings, and architectural paints. The following list outlines common contexts and why verification matters.
- Automotive paints used by manufacturers and body shops for original finishes and recolorings.
- Industrial coatings on machinery, equipment, or fleets that require precise color coordination for branding or safety.
- Architectural or decorative paints in regional catalogs or retailer programs, where K23 may designate a particular consumer-grade shade or finish.
Because color systems vary by brand, the same code can refer to different actual colors in different lines. Always verify with the exact product line you are purchasing or mixing.
How to identify the exact K23 color you need
Before seeking a match, determine the brand and product line associated with K23. The steps below outline a practical approach to pin down the correct shade and ensure a reliable match.
Key considerations
- Locate the label or data plate on the item (such as a vehicle door jamb, paint cap, or equipment panel) to identify the brand and the specific paint system.
- Consult the brand’s official color chart or catalog for K23, noting the finish type (e.g., metallic, pearlescent, matte, gloss) and any subcodes or batch numbers.
- Compare the K23 swatch to the existing surface under consistent lighting, and if possible, obtain a physical sample from the manufacturer or an authorized retailer.
- Use a spectrophotometer or a color-matching app in a controlled environment to quantify the color and cross-check against the brand’s data.
- Ask a professional (body shop, paint retailer, or coatings supplier) to verify the match with a color card or mix statement before purchase or application.
Following these steps will maximize the chances of a precise match for K23, reducing the risk of shade mismatch or finish inconsistency.
Summary
K23 is a non-universal paint code that maps to different shades depending on the brand and coating system. To determine precisely what K23 refers to in your project, identify the brand and product line, consult official color charts, and compare swatches or samples under realistic lighting. Always verify with the manufacturer or a qualified retailer to ensure an accurate match.
In essence, the code signals a brand-defined color, not a single shared hue; only the issuing color system can confirm the exact shade you should buy or mix.
