What is the color code K for Ford?
K is Ford’s one-letter exterior color code; it does not map to a single universal shade. The exact color assigned to 'K' depends on the model year and market, so the only reliable way to identify it is to refer to the year-specific Ford color chart or a trusted restoration database for your vehicle.
How Ford's paint code system works
Ford uses alphanumeric codes on build and trim tags to identify exterior paints. The codes can be single letters or combinations, and the same letter can refer to different colors across decades.
- The code appears on the vehicle’s identification tag (often the driver’s door jamb) or on a firewall/radiator-support tag, depending on the year and model.
- A single-letter code like "K" maps to a color name in Ford’s official color chart for that specific year/model.
- Year, market (North America vs. international), and vehicle line (Mustang, F-Series, etc.) affect the mapping of codes to colors.
Because mappings change over time and by model, always cross-check the code against the exact year and model documentation.
Where to locate the color code on your Ford
To determine if "K" applies to your car, locate the color code tag on the vehicle. The tag location varies by generation and model year.
- Door jamb sticker on the driver’s side (common on most post-1980 Fords)
- Firewall or radiator support tag on older or some specialty models
- Glove box or trunk sticker on certain European or older vehicles
- Window sticker or Certificate of Title when the original color is listed there
Finding the exact tag will allow you to confirm whether the 'K' code corresponds to your vehicle's current exterior color.
How to verify the exact color name for K
Because "K" can map to different color names depending on year and model, follow these steps to verify the precise shade.
- Confirm the vehicle’s year, model, and market (e.g., North America, Europe).
- Consult Ford’s official color code catalog for that year or use a trusted Ford restoration resource or dealer service bulletin.
- Match the code to the color name or paint code sheet; many catalogs list the exact paint name associated with "K" per year/model.
- If possible, photograph a swatch or have a professional perform a paint match to ensure you’re ordering the correct shade.
Using the year-specific chart ensures you don’t rely on outdated or incorrect color mappings.
Caveats and practical tips
Several factors can affect the accuracy of color identification from codes alone.
- Repaint history may have introduced a different code than the original.
- Region-specific color codes can diverge from those used in other markets.
- Some dealers or refurbishers may mislabel codes or rely on outdated charts.
When in doubt, cross-reference multiple sources and, if possible, obtain an official paint sample or request a certified color match from a Ford dealership or reputable restoration shop.
Summary
The color code K on a Ford vehicle is not a fixed color name; it is a year- and model-dependent code that requires checking the specific color chart for your car. By locating the tag that carries the code, consulting the correct year-specific Ford color catalog, and, if needed, confirming with a professional paint match, you can identify the exact exterior color associated with K for your vehicle.
