How to check the colour of your car's paintwork using the VIN number?

Matching the right car paint colour is important when repairing the paintwork. Each manufacturer uses its own colour codes, and the VIN number can help you find the original colour of your vehicle. How to check the colour of your car paint using the VIN number?

What is a VIN number and where can I find it?

The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique identifier for each vehicle, assigned by the manufacturer. It consists of 17 characters and contains information about the model, engine version and other technical specifications.

The VIN can be found in several places:

• registration certificate - field E,
• vehicle service book,
• body parts - e.g. driver's side door pillar, under the bonnet, in the boot, on the driver's door, under the fuel filler flap.

The VIN does not directly contain the paint code, but authorised service centres for the brand can use it to find accurate information about the factory colour.

How to read the paint code from the VIN?

It is not possible to read the paint code from the VIN number on your own - it requires access to the manufacturer's internal databases. However, there are ways to obtain this information:

• authorised service centre - at an authorised service centre, you can check the exact vehicle data, including the paint code, based on the VIN;
• online VIN decoders – tools available on the internet can help you decipher the VIN, but they do not always contain information about the paint;
• nameplate – many manufacturers place the paint code directly on the nameplate in the vehicle.

Each manufacturer uses different paint code markings, e.g.:

• Volkswagen, Audi, Seat - the paint code starts with ‘L’ (e.g. LA7W, LY9B),
• BMW - the code is usually a three-digit number (e.g. 475, A08),
• Renault - the code starts with ‘TE’ and three digits,
• Opel - the first letter indicates the type of paint, the following digits indicate the colour (e.g. Z20R),
• Toyota, Honda, Peugeot - paint codes are 2-3 digits/letters (e.g. 1F7, EXL).

Does the nameplate contain the paint code?

Yes, in many cases, the nameplate is the best source of information about the vehicle's paint. It includes, among other things, the VIN number and the OEM paint code. The problem is that there is no uniform standard - manufacturers place the plate in different locations, including:

• on the driver's side door pillar,
• in the engine compartment,
• under the fuel filler flap,
• in the boot.

If you find the nameplate, you can use online databases or go to a paint shop, where they will help you decipher the paint code and select the right shade.

How to match the paint when the VIN is not enough?

If the VIN number does not allow you to clearly identify the colour, you can use alternative methods:

1. Spectrophotometer - a device that scans the colour of the vehicle and converts it.
2. Matching the fuel filler flap - you can take it to a paint shop to precisely match the paint.
3. Colour charts - e.g. RAL chart available at professional paint mixing shops, allowing you to select solid colours.

Paint colours may change under the influence of atmospheric factors - mainly shades of yellow, red or purple may differ from the original under the influence of UV rays. In this case, we use a spectrophotometer for precise colour matching.

Professional Multichem paints - perfect colour matching

If you are looking for a precise paint selection, choose proven Multichem car paints. As a manufacturer of car paints, we offer a wide range of topcoats and clear coats that ensure durability and protection of the paintwork.

Order today and ensure the perfect appearance of your vehicle!