What is the paint code for Toyota?

There is no single Toyota paint code; each color has its own three-character alphanumeric code used to identify the exact shade, and you’ll find it on the vehicle’s data plate.

This article explains what the paint code is, where to locate it, and how to use it to match paint for touch-ups or repainting.

What is a Toyota paint code?

The paint code is a three-character identifier, typically digits and uppercase letters, assigned to each color Toyota offers. It corresponds to the exact color mix for your car’s exterior and is used by dealerships and paint suppliers to ensure color accuracy. Codes may reference metallic or pearlescent finishes, as well as solid colors.

Where to find the paint code

To obtain the correct color, locate the paint code on the car itself. It is usually printed on a data plate located on the driver's door jamb, but could also appear on the glove box lid, under the hood near the engine bay, or on a sticker inside the trunk, depending on model and year.

Common locations

Check these usual spots first to locate the exact three-character code.

• Driver's door jamb data plate: look for a field labeled "Paint" or "PNT" with a three-character code.


• Glove box or passenger door jamb sticker: alternate location if the primary plate is missing.


• Under-hood or radiator support label: some older models use a secondary label in the engine bay.


• VIN plate or service records: in rare cases, the color code is listed in documentation.

If you still can't locate it, check the owner's manual or contact a Toyota dealer with your VIN for assistance.

How to read and use the code

Once you have the three-character code, you can use it to order exact touch-up paint, full-color sprays, or to confirm color matches when purchasing replacement parts. When ordering, provide the code along with your vehicle year, model, and trim to ensure the correct finish. Be aware that different finishes (solid, metallic, pearlescent) can affect shade even with the same base code.

Tips for ordering paint

Before placing an order, use this checklist to improve accuracy.

• Provide the paint code and finish type (solid, metallic, pearlescent) to the supplier.


• Specify the paint system (single-stage vs. base coat/clear coat) used on your car.


• Consider requesting a small test spray or a spray-out card to verify color before committing to a full batch.

Dealers often carry Toyota Genuine Paint in quarts, pints, or spray cans, and independent shops can mix to code when supplied with the correct information.

Common formats and tips

Most Toyota color codes are three characters long, made up of digits and uppercase letters. Some regional or older codes can differ in length or formatting. Always cross-check the code with your VIN and the color name in the owner’s documentation to avoid miscommunication with the supplier.

When in doubt, use the code to verify against the official Toyota color catalog or ask a professional to confirm color accuracy, especially for metallic or pearlescent finishes that can appear slightly different in sunlight.

Verification and care

After obtaining a code, verify it against your car in person if possible. When applying touch-up paint, practice on a small inconspicuous area first and follow the product instructions for mixing ratios and clear coats. Store paint and supplies away from heat or direct sunlight to maintain consistency.

Summary: Toyota paint codes are three-character identifiers unique to each color. They live on the vehicle’s data plate and are used to ensure accurate matches for touch-ups and repainting. Knowing where to find them and how to use them helps you achieve a precise color match.

What does a Toyota paint code look like?

Toyota paint names
The paint code is typically a combination of 3 numbers, with sometimes a letter too like: 040. 8X2.

Can I use my VIN to find my paint code?

No, you cannot find your car's paint code by VIN alone, as the VIN is a unique vehicle identifier and does not contain the paint code. However, you can use the VIN to find the code by contacting the manufacturer or a dealership, or by looking for the paint code on a sticker in your car. 
Where to find your paint code

• On a sticker inside the driver's door: Look for a sticker on the door jamb or B-pillar that contains terms like "EXT PNT" or "BODY COLOR CODE," says CarParts.com. 
• On a label under the hood: Some cars have a sticker or placard with paint information in the engine bay, although it can sometimes be hard to read due to age and heat, according to AutoZone.com. 
• In your owner's manual: The paint code is often listed in the service history or owner's manual for your vehicle, notes Holts Auto. 

If you can't find the code on your car 

• Contact the dealership: Provide the VIN to the manufacturer or an authorized dealer, and they can look up the exact factory paint color for you, says JustAnswer. 
• Use online VIN decoding tools: Some online tools and websites can help you find paint codes, but you should always verify the code directly from your vehicle or a dealer for accuracy, as online tools may have inaccuracies, notes Partify. 

How do I find my Toyota paint code?

To find your Toyota paint code, open the driver's side door and locate the sticker on the door jamb or B-pillar. The code is a three-digit combination of letters and numbers that appears after "C/TR:" on the label. If you can't find it, contact your Toyota dealership and provide your VIN for assistance. 
This video shows where to find the paint code on a Toyota Camry: 58sPhilly TomYouTube · Nov 6, 2021
Step-by-step guide

1. Open the driver's side door. 
2. Find the information or identification sticker on the door jamb (the frame of the door) or the B-pillar (the pillar behind the door). 
3. Look for a line of text that includes "C/TR:" followed by a three-digit code. The three characters to the right of "C/TR:" are your paint code. 
4. Note this three-digit code, as it's the exact color for your vehicle. 

You can watch this video to see a step-by-step guide on finding the paint code on a Toyota RAV4: 59sMattHumanPizzaYouTube · Sep 28, 2021
If you still can't find it

• Call a Toyota dealership: Provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and they can look up the correct paint code for you. 
• Look for other locations: On some models, the label might be in the engine bay or under the front passenger seat carpet, though the driver's door is the most common location. 

This video shows another example of finding the paint code on a Toyota RAV4: 59sJoe Beermaster The Car MasterYouTube · Jan 5, 2021

How to match Toyota paint color?

The color code is what will you get the exact OEM paint color for your Toyota year, model, make and color. For all Toyota cars the color code is on a label on the driver side door jamb. On the label will be a three digit code after the letters "C/TR" The next 3 digits are your paint code.