2018 Chevrolet Malibu Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, the paint code is most commonly located on a sticker in the glove compartment. Open the glove box, and you'll typically find a white or silver sticker with various codes. Look for a section labeled "EXT PNT" or "EXTERIOR PAINT". The code will usually be a two, three, or four-digit alphanumeric code, often followed by a "WA" code, which is an internal GM code. For example, "WA8624" for Summit White. In some cases, it might also be found on the service parts identification (SPID) label, which could be located on the spare tire cover or under the trunk lid.

Best touch-up paint sources

When your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu inevitably picks up a stone chip or minor scratch, these are your go-to sources for touch-up paint:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option, Dupli-Color offers a good range of factory-matched aerosol and brush-on touch-up paints. You can often find their products at automotive parts stores and online retailers. Be sure to use their website's vehicle color finder to ensure you get the correct paint code.

• AutomotiveTouchup: For a more precise match and a wider selection of application types (pens, bottles, aerosols), AutomotiveTouchup is an excellent choice. They mix their paints fresh to order based on your vehicle's specific paint code, offering a higher quality match, especially for metallic and pearl finishes.

• Tcoat custom-mix: If you're looking for a truly custom solution or have a particularly tricky color to match, Tcoat can custom-mix paint based on your specific requirements. This is often a good option for older vehicles or unique colors.

• Dealership: Your local Chevrolet dealership can also supply OEM touch-up paint. While sometimes more expensive, this guarantees an exact match to the factory finish.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a seamless touch-up requires a few steps:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the area to be touched up with soap and water, then an automotive degreaser or rubbing alcohol. Ensure it's completely dry.
2. Primer (if needed): If the scratch has gone through to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. Let it dry completely according to the product's instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply thin, even coats of your color-matched base coat. Allow each coat to dry to the touch before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually until it's level with the surrounding area.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is fully dry, apply several thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and restore the original sheen. This is crucial for metallic and pearl finishes to achieve the correct depth and sparkle.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearlescent paints (like Iridescent Pearl Tricoat) and tri-coat colors (like Cajun Red Tintcoat) are more complex than solid colors. They achieve their unique appearance through multiple layers:

• Pearl/Tri-Coat Complexity: These finishes involve a base color, followed by a mid-coat containing pearl or tint, and then a clear coat. The mid-coat is what gives these colors their depth and color-shifting properties.
• Application is Key: When touching up these colors, it's crucial to apply the mid-coat thinly and evenly. Too much in one area can make the touched-up spot appear darker or alter the pearl effect. Practicing on a scrap piece of metal beforehand can be very helpful.
• Blend, Don't Just Spot: For larger repairs, blending the mid-coat into the surrounding original paint can help achieve a more seamless transition. This requires a delicate hand and often professional expertise.

Never invent codes. If uncertain on a specific color, list the well-known popular colors only and tell the reader to confirm via VIN at dealer or paint supplier. Your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu's paint code is your best friend in ensuring an accurate match. Always double-check your code against the product before purchase.

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