What is the color code for Toyota 40?

The color code “40” is not a recognized standalone Toyota exterior paint code. Toyota color identifiers are typically three-character codes or other market-specific formats, and a bare “40” does not uniquely identify a shade. Determining the exact color requires locating the full code from the vehicle’s data plate or catalog.

In this article, we explain why a simple “40” isn’t sufficient, outline the common formats Toyota uses for color codes, and provide practical steps to locate and verify the correct paint code for your Toyota model or market. We also offer guidance on what to do if the code you have is incomplete or ambiguous.

Decoding Toyota color codes and what “40” means in context

Automobile paint codes are designed to precisely identify a shade, and Toyota uses formats that can vary by generation, model, and region. While many Toyota codes are three characters long and alphanumeric, some markets or older models used numeric codes or longer strings. A stand-alone “40” does not correspond reliably to a specific exterior color in Toyota’s published catalogs.

Common color-code formats used by Toyota

Understanding the typical formats helps you interpret or cross-check a color code you find on a vehicle. The following formats are commonly encountered, though exact presentation can vary by market and model year.

• Three-character alphanumeric codes (for example, combinations like A1B or 1A2).


• Three-digit numeric codes (for example, 040 or 123), sometimes with a leading zero.


• Market-specific alphanumeric strings that may include letters and digits and appear on data plates, stickers, or build sheets.

Knowing the general pattern can help you cross-reference with official paint catalogs or dealer resources to confirm the exact shade.

Is “40” a valid standalone code?

As a standalone entry, “40” is not typically listed as an official exterior color code in Toyota’s standard catalogs. If you see “40” on a sticker or document, it is likely part of a longer code, or it may refer to a trim, interior color, or a regional coding convention. To confirm the exterior paint, you should locate the full code rather than rely on the three characters alone.

Where to locate the color code on your Toyota

To identify the exact paint shade, you’ll want to read the full color code from the vehicle’s data plate or official documentation. The following steps guide you to the most common sources.

Use these practical steps to locate the color code on your Toyota vehicle.

1. Check the driver’s-side door jamb sticker. This is the most common place for the paint code to be listed alongside the VIN, weight, and tire information.


2. Look for a tag in the engine bay or on the firewall. Some models place the color code on a small metal or plastic tag in this area.


3. Consult the glove box or instrument panel plates. Some markets print the color code on interior data plates or stickers inside the cabin.


4. Review the owner’s manual or service booklet. In certain regions, the color code is included in maintenance or warranty sections.


5. Contact a Toyota dealership or official service center with your VIN. They can retrieve the exact exterior color code from build records if you provide the VIN.

With the full color code in hand, you can reference Toyota’s official paint catalogs or request OEM touch-up paint that matches the shade precisely.

Practical tips for matching paint and ordering touch-up products

Getting an exact match is important for touch-ups and repaints. When you have the full color code, use these guidelines to ensure the closest possible result.

1. Always cross-check the color code against the model year and market, as codes can vary between regions.


2. When ordering, provide the full code (not just a partial fragment) and your vehicle’s model, year, and trim level.


3. If possible, compare a sample of the actual paint in daylight before purchasing a full can or spray can.


4. For repairs, consider professional services that can blend color and clear coat for a seamless finish.

Understanding the correct code and following these steps helps ensure a durable, color-accurate repair or touch-up.

Summary

In short, a plain “40” does not pin down a specific Toyota exterior color. Toyota color codes are typically three-character alphanumeric codes or market-specific formats that require the full code for accurate identification. To determine the exact shade, locate the complete color code on the data plate or through a Toyota dealer using the vehicle’s VIN, and then reference official catalogs or OEM touch-up products. If you only have partial information, use it as a lead to obtain the full code from a reliable source.

How to identify Toyota paint code?

To find a Toyota paint code, open the driver's side door and look for the sticker on the door jamb or door pillar. The paint code is a three-digit code (letters and numbers) located to the right of C/TR: on the sticker.
 
This video shows how to find the paint code on a Toyota: 29sScratchWizardYouTube · Mar 20, 2013
Step 1: Locate the identification sticker 

• Open the driver's door. 
• Look for the information or identification sticker on the door jamb (the frame where the door latches) or on the lower part of the driver's door pillar. 

This video shows how to find the paint code on a Toyota door jamb: 24sREADY CAR PAINTSYouTube · Jan 8, 2023
Step 2: Find the C/TR line 

• The sticker contains various codes, including your VIN, build date, and options.
• Look for the line that starts with C/TR:.
• This line stands for "Color / Trim". 

This video shows an example of finding the C/TR line on a Toyota RAV4: 59sMattHumanPizzaYouTube · Sep 28, 2021
Step 3: Read the three-digit paint code 

• The three-digit code following C/TR: is your paint code. 
• It can consist of numbers, letters, or a combination of both (e.g., 1C0, 202, 3P1). 
• This code identifies the exact formula for your car's factory paint. 

This video shows an example of finding the three-digit paint code on a Toyota Tacoma: 55sJoe Beermaster The Car MasterYouTube · Mar 29, 2019
If the sticker is missing or unreadable

• Call a Toyota dealership and provide them with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• They can look up your vehicle's specifications and give you the correct paint code. 

Is Toyota paint Code 040 metallic?

HiQ Urethane Basecoat is a high-quality automotive paint engineered for OEM refinishing. This color matches Toyota's 040 (Light Topaz Metallic ), a rich factory color used on various Toyota vehicles.

What color is pearl tricoat?

Tri-coat pearl colors are sprayed in three stages: a base coat, usually an off-white flat color; a mid-coat, which is a different color of white; then a clear coat, which is tinted with the pearlescent colors that give it that pop. Unfortunately, there is no way to replicate this color exactly with one bottle of paint.

What color is Toyota paint code 040?

Toyota paint code 040 is for Super White or Ice Cap. This is a popular, non-metallic white color used on many Toyota vehicles for both factory-applied paint and aftermarket touch-up products.
 

• Common uses: This paint is used for overall paint jobs, large repairs, and small touch-ups on various Toyota models, including the Camry, Corolla, and Tacoma. 
• Product types: You can find the 040 paint in various forms, such as touch-up pens, aerosol spray cans, and quart or gallon containers for larger projects. 
• Application: Proper surface preparation and application techniques are recommended for the best results. For spray paint, a clear coat is also highly recommended to protect the paint and help match the color and sheen, as noted on Amazon.com.