Repainting your car sounds simple—until you realize the color on the cap doesn't always match what's on your hood. Factory finishes have depth, tone, and unique characteristics that are hard to eyeball. That's why getting the factory paint color match right matters more than most people think!
In this blog, you'll learn how to properly identify and recreate your car's original factory finish. We'll go step by step, from finding your OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) code to understanding paint types and ordering with confidence. Let's get started!
What Are Factory Paint Colors?
Factory paint colors are the original finishes applied to a car during manufacturing. Every brand uses specific formulas that reflect their vehicle's design identity. Each factory paint color match starts with an OEM code, like Ford's "Race Red" or BMW's "Jet Black."
These codes define the exact pigment blend, reflectivity, and finish. Even if the name is the same, the formula can vary by year or model. A 2020 and a 2024 may share a name but not the mix. If you're trying to restore a car's appearance or keep a respray true to factory spec, using the right code is key.
Match Factory Paint Like a Pro
Getting a factory paint color match takes more than just a good eye. Follow these steps to get it right from start to finish:
Step 1 – Locate Your Vehicle's Factory Paint Code
You can't match what you don't know. First, you have to locate the factory paint code (in case you want to use your vehicle's current one). You can usually find it:
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Inside the driver's door jamb
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Under the hood
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In the trunk (common for Audi and GM)
Codes vary: they may include numbers, letters, or both. For example, "LA7W" refers to VW's Reflex Silver Metallic. Never try to guess based on appearance alone—it leads to mismatched panels and wasted product.
Step 2 – Understand the Type of Paint Finish
Matching your factory color isn't just about getting the hue right—it's also about matching how the paint looks in different lighting. Factory finishes fall into a few categories:
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Solid: A flat color with no added effects
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Metallic: Mixed with fine metal flakes for shimmer
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Pearl: Uses synthetic or ceramic particles for a deeper, color-shifting look
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Tri-coat: A multi-layer system that includes a tinted midcoat for added richness
Knowing what kind of finish you're working with makes your factory paint color match more precise.
Step 3 – Order a Basecoat Matched to Your OEM Code
Once you've found your OEM code, the next step is to choose an automotive paint provider that offers high-quality products matched to factory specifications. Many trusted suppliers formulate basecoats that closely match OEM color codes across brands.
Make sure the listing includes your vehicle's manufacturer and exact color code. If you're going for a full-color change, keep in mind that you'll be leaving the factory paint color match approach and entering custom territory.
To ensure a consistent finish, pair the matched basecoat with the right primer, reducer, and clear coat designed to work together.
Get the Right Factory Color With Auto Paint HQ
At Auto Paint HQ, we offer OEM-style basecoats formulated to closely match official colors from major manufacturers like Ford, BMW, GM, Audi, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, Subaru, and more! Each kit is crafted to deliver consistency, coverage, and the close, authentic factory look you're after.
We make it simple to get the right paint with basecoat kits organized by brand and color code. You can also share your factory paint code, and we'll build a basecoat-only kit or a full kit, including a clearcoat tailored for your vehicle. Check our OEM colors now!