2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the paint code is typically located on a sticker in the glove compartment or on the service parts identification (SPID) label. This label is usually found on the inside of the glove box door. Look for a series of codes, and your paint code will often start with "BC/CC" followed by a four-digit number and a two-digit letter code (e.g., "BC/CC WA8624"). Sometimes the WA code is listed by itself without the BC/CC prefix. It's also possible to find it on the driver's side door jamb, or on the B-pillar (the pillar between the front and rear doors on the driver's side). Always confirm the code with your VIN at a Chevrolet dealership or a reputable paint supplier to ensure accuracy.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, several reputable sources offer quality paint products:

• Dupli-Color: Widely available at auto parts stores, Dupli-Color offers aerosol cans and paint pens that match many factory colors. They are a good option for small scrapes and rock chips.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint that is formulated to match your vehicle's specific paint code. They offer pens, bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans, and are known for their accurate color matching.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat is another excellent online resource for precisely matched custom paint. They often provide more comprehensive kits with primers and clear coats, which can be beneficial for achieving a professional finish.
• Dealership: Your local Chevrolet dealership can also provide touch-up paint specifically designed for your vehicle. This is often the most expensive option but guarantees an OEM match.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a good result with touch-up paint requires a few careful steps:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the area to be touched up with soap and water, then an automotive degreaser to remove any wax, grease, or contaminants. Allow it to dry completely.
2. Prime (if necessary): If the scratch has gone down to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry according to the product instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply thin coats of color paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Build up the color slowly until it matches the surrounding paint. Multiple thin coats are always better than one thick coat.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a couple of thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. This also helps the touched-up area blend with the factory paint.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like Siren Red Tintcoat, Cajun Red Tintcoat, and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat, can be more challenging to match than solid or metallic colors due to their multi-layered composition. These paints consist of a base color, a pearl or mid-coat layer that creates the special effect, and a final clear coat. When touching up these colors, it is crucial to:

• Follow instructions precisely: The specific application process for each layer is vital for achieving the correct depth and hue.
• Apply thin, even coats: This is especially important for the mid-coat to prevent blotchiness or color inconsistencies.
• Test on a discrete area first: If you have an inconspicuous spot, test your application technique and the color match before applying it to the visible damage.
• Consider professional help for larger repairs: For anything more than a tiny chip, a professional body shop will have the expertise and equipment to properly blend and match these complex colors.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.