What part of Ford VIN is paint code?
The exterior paint color is not part of the Ford VIN. The 17-character VIN identifies the vehicle’s factory, year, plant, and production sequence, but it does not encode the paint color. The paint code is stored separately on labeling and documentation that accompany the vehicle.
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is designed to convey manufacturing and production details, not cosmetic options. To determine the exact exterior paint color or its code, you’ll need to consult the color label on the car or the official build documents. This article explains where to find the paint code and how to interpret it for Ford vehicles.
Understanding Ford VIN and paint color
A Ford VIN is a 17-character code divided into sections that reveal factory information, model year, assembly plant, and serial sequence. The 10th character indicates the model year, the 11th identifies the plant, and the remaining digits trace the production sequence. There is no dedicated segment in the VIN for exterior paint color or interior trim. In short, paint information lives outside the VIN and must be read from separate labels or documents.
Where to find Ford paint code
Exterior paint codes are typically printed on the vehicle’s color label or on the original build documentation. This code is the quickest way to match touch-up or spray paint to the car’s original color.
- Door jamb data plate: The driver’s-side door frame carries a sticker with vehicle specs, including the exterior paint code (often labeled as Exterior or Paint).
- Original window sticker (Monroney label): In many markets, the exterior color code or a close reference is listed there, alongside the color name.
- Build sheet or order sheet: If you have access to the factory build sheet or dealer’s order documentation, it will include the paint code used on the original production.
- Ford dealer or official VIN lookup: An authorized Ford dealer or Ford’s official online VIN decoder can provide the paint color code when supplied with the VIN, sometimes alongside the color name.
Locating the paint code on these labels ensures you order the correct shade for touch-ups or repainting, and avoids mismatches caused by guessing from the VIN.
How to decode the color code
After you locate the paint code, cross-reference it with Ford’s color catalogs for the specific model year and market. Ford maintains year- and region-specific color charts, so use the chart that matches your car’s year and country. Codes can vary between generations and regions, which is why the exact shade name may differ even if the code is the same.
Summary
The exterior paint color is not contained in the Ford VIN. To identify or reproduce the original color, check the door tag, the window sticker, or the build sheet for the paint code, and verify it against Ford’s official color catalogs. A dealer or Ford’s VIN lookup tool can also provide the color information when you input the VIN.
Which part of the VIN is the paint code?
Your vehicle's VIN does not include paint code information. The paint code for your specific car is stated on the information sticker posted on the door frame of your vehicle.
Will my VIN number tell me my paint color?
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
However, the VIN does not give us your color code! It only gives us any paint formula variance in an existing color code.
Can you get a Ford paint code from the VIN number?
The VIN number includes unique information about the vehicle. From your car's VIN, you can determine the manufacturer, specifications, and the information you need to get the paint color code. You can also use the number to check for recalls, track registrations and warranties, and determine insurance coverage.
Where is the paint code on a Ford?
To find your Ford touch-up paint part number: Find your vehicle's paint code located on your vehicle's door jamb label. The exterior paint code will be labeled as EXT PNT followed by two characters. Note: Older vehicles may have more than two characters.
