2020 Chevrolet Malibu Paint Codes

Quick Reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2020 Chevrolet Malibu, the paint code is typically located on a sticker in the glove compartment or on the service parts identification (SPID) label, which is often found on the underside of the trunk lid or in the rear compartment near the spare tire well. It may also be on the driver's side door jamb. The paint code will be a two, three or four-digit alphanumeric code, sometimes followed by a "WA" prefix. Look for a label that explicitly mentions "Paint" or "Color." For example, "WA8624" for Summit White or "WA176X" for Silver Ice Metallic. If you have trouble locating it, your Chevrolet dealership parts department can provide it using your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

For minor scratches and chips, touch-up paint is a cost-effective solution. Here are some reliable sources:

• Dupli-Color: Widely available at automotive parts stores and online, Dupli-Color offers aerosol sprays and paint pens. They typically include a primer, base coat, and clear coat option. Be sure to match the paint code carefully.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paints, offering precise color matching for your vehicle's specific paint code. They provide a range of products, including pens, bottles, and spray cans, often in multi-stage kits for metallic and pearl finishes.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Tcoat is another excellent online option for custom-mixed paint. They are known for their accuracy and offer various application types, including professional-grade spray cans and paint repair kits.
• Dealership: Your local Chevrolet dealership parts department can also supply OEM touch-up paint. While sometimes pricier, these are guaranteed to be an exact match to your original factory finish.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a good result with touch-up paint requires patience and following these steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly wash and dry the damaged area to remove any dirt, wax, or grease. Use a degreaser or rubbing alcohol for best results.
2. Apply primer (if necessary): If the scratch is deep and exposes bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply the base coat: Apply several thin coats of the base color, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint. For metallic and pearl colors, ensuring even application is crucial to avoid blotchiness.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a few thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and restore the gloss. This step is essential for durability and matching the factory finish.
5. Wet sand and polish (optional): For a smoother finish, after the clear coat has fully cured, you can gently wet sand the area with very fine-grit sandpaper (2000-3000 grit) and then polish it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding paint. Be very careful during this step to avoid removing too much material.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like Cajun Red Tintcoat or Iridescent Pearl Tricoat, are multi-stage finishes that can be more challenging to match perfectly. These paints consist of a base color, a mid-coat containing pearl or metallic flakes, and a clear coat.

• Layering is key: When using touch-up paint for these colors, applying the correct number of coats for each stage is critical. Too few or too many coats can lead to a noticeable color difference.
• Feathering: When applying a mid-coat or clear coat, try to "feather" the edges into the surrounding original paint. This helps to blend the new paint and minimize harsh lines.
• Temperature and humidity: Apply touch-up paint in an environment with stable temperature and low humidity, as these factors can affect drying times and the final appearance of the paint.
• Test on a discrete area: If possible, test the touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area first or on a test card to get a feel for the color and application.

Never hesitate to confirm your paint code with your VIN at a dealership or paint supplier to ensure perfect matching. This is especially important for multi-stage paints.

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