What is the paint code for Subaru Steel Silver?
There isn’t a single universal paint code for Subaru Steel Silver. The exact code depends on the model year and the market where the vehicle was sold. For an accurate match, verify the code on the car’s official label or consult Subaru’s color catalog tied to the vehicle’s VIN.
Understanding Steel Silver Metallic
Steel Silver Metallic is a mid‑tone gray-silver finish used on various Subaru models over different years. While the shade name remains fairly consistent, the official paint code attached to that color can shift with regional catalogs and model-year updates. This means two cars that look alike may have different codes if they come from different markets or production runs.
Why color codes vary across cars
Subaru, like many automakers, updates its color catalog over time and differentiates by region. Subtle shifts in pigment, finish, or formula can lead to separate paint codes for essentially the same appearance. Always rely on the exact code listed for your vehicle rather than the color name alone.
How to locate the paint code on your Subaru
Use the following steps to locate the exact paint code on your car. The code is usually a short alphanumeric string found on a label associated with the vehicle’s color information. If you cannot find it, a dealership can retrieve it from the VIN.
- Open the driver's door and inspect the door jamb sticker; this label often lists the color name and paint code alongside tire specifications and the VIN.
- Check the trunk area or the spare tire well; some models place the paint code on a sticker in the trunk lid or on the interior side of the trunk floor.
- Look in the engine bay or on the firewall area for a small label containing the paint code, especially on older Subarus where the door jamb label may be less prominent.
- Consult the owner's manual or the original window sticker for the exact color designation and code used for your model year.
- If the label isn’t accessible, contact an authorized Subaru dealer and provide the VIN; they can pull the precise color code from Subaru’s database.
With the correct code in hand, you’ll ensure precise color matching for touch-ups, paintwork, or replacement panels.
Market and year variations you should know
Color naming and coding can differ by region (North America, Europe, Japan, etc.) and may change from one model year to the next. If you’re shopping used cars or purchasing paint to match a Steel Silver finish, confirm the exact code for that specific vehicle rather than relying on the color name alone. Dealers and repair shops typically rely on the code tied to the VIN for a perfect match.
Practical guidance for owners and buyers
When in doubt, treat the paint code as the authoritative identifier for color matching. Keep a record of the code alongside the vehicle’s year, model, and market, especially if you plan maintenance, repairs, or repainting. If you’re ordering touch-up paint, providing the VIN to a dealer will usually yield the correct code for that particular car.
Summary
Subaru’s Steel Silver Metallic is a recognized shade across many markets, but the official paint code is not universal. The most reliable method to obtain the exact code is to check the vehicle’s label or obtain VIN-based color data from a Subaru dealer. By using the correct code, you ensure an accurate color match for repairs and upkeep, preserving the car’s original appearance.
