2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the paint code is most commonly found on a sticker in the glove compartment. Open the glove box, and on the inside you should see a "Service Parts Identification" label. This label lists various option codes for your truck, and among them, you'll find the paint code, typically starting with "BC/CC" followed by a four-digit number, often preceded by "WA". For example, "BC/CC WA8624" indicates Summit White.

Occasionally, the sticker might also be located on the driver's side door jamb or in the cargo area, but the glove compartment is the primary spot for GM vehicles of this era.

Best touch-up paint sources

When you need to fix minor scratches or chips on your Silverado, several reputable sources offer quality touch-up paint:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers aerosol cans, paint pens, and brush bottles. You can often find Dupli-Color at automotive parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and Pep Boys. They use the WA code (e.g., WA8624).
• AutomotiveTouchup (automotivetouchup.com): This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed automotive paint for a perfect match. They offer a comprehensive range of products, including touch-up pens, brush bottles, aerosol cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. They ask for your year, make, model, and often require the paint code to ensure accuracy.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Some local automotive paint supply stores can custom-mix paint based on your specific code, which can be beneficial for older or more unusual colors.
• Dealership: Your local Chevrolet dealership can also provide OEM touch-up paint, which is guaranteed to be an exact match to the factory finish.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a good touch-up repair requires a few steps for a seamless blend:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the area around the scratch or chip with soap and water, then follow with a wax and grease remover. This ensures proper adhesion.
2. Prime (if necessary): For deep scratches that go down to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply thin, even coats of the base color. Allow each coat to dry to a dull finish before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is fully dry, apply several thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. This is crucial for durability and matching the original luster.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

If your 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has a Pearl or Tri-Coat paint (like Siren Red Tintcoat or Iridescent Pearl T-coat), color matching can be more challenging due to the multi-layer application at the factory. These paints consist of a base color, a translucent mid-coat (pearl or tint), and a clear coat.

• Layering is key: When touching up, it's essential to replicate this layering process. Apply the base color first, then the pearl/tint mid-coat (which will be a translucent layer), and finally the clear coat. Do not try to achieve the final color with just the base coat.
• Practice first: If possible, practice on a scrap piece of metal or an inconspicuous area to get a feel for how the layers build up and how much of the mid-coat to apply.
• Patience: These colors require more patience and a lighter touch. Applying too much of the pearl or tint coat can make the repaired area appear darker or richer than the surrounding paint.
• Consider professional help: For larger repairs on pearl or tri-coat finishes, or if you're unsure about your ability to match the color, it's often best to consult a professional body shop.

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