2018 Chevrolet Tahoe Paint Color Codes & Touch-Up Guide

The 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe is a staple of American full-size SUVs, offering a blend of rugged capability and premium style. Whether you are dealing with a minor rock chip from a road trip or a door ding from a crowded parking lot, getting the exact touch-up paint is crucial for maintaining your Tahoe's imposing presence.

Below is your comprehensive guide to identifying, locating, and applying the correct paint for your 2018 Chevy Tahoe.

Quick reference

Here is a list of the factory colors offered for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe. General Motors typically assigns two codes to each color (a three-character RPO code and a "WA" code). Both codes point to the exact same color.

Color Name	Paint Code (RPO / WA)	Type (Solid / Metallic / Pearl)
Black	GBA / WA8555	Solid
Summit White	GAZ / WA8624	Solid
Silver Ice Metallic	GAN / WA636R	Metallic
Iridescent Pearl Tricoat	G1W / WA140X	Pearl / Tricoat
Siren Red Tintcoat	G1E / WA105V	Pearl / Tintcoat
Blue Velvet Metallic	G1M / WA136X	Metallic
Pepperdust Metallic	GMU / WA441B	Metallic
Satin Steel Metallic	G9K / WA464C	Metallic
Havana Metallic	G2X / WA439C	Metallic

Note: If you are uncertain about your specific color, always confirm via your VIN at a local GM dealer or through your paint supplier.

Where to find your paint code

General Motors makes finding your paint code relatively straightforward, but the location can vary slightly depending on the exact trim and assembly plant of your Tahoe.

For a 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe, look for the Service Parts Identification (SPID) label.

1. The Glove Box: Open your glove compartment and look for a silver or white sticker inside the door or on the interior walls.
2. The Driver's Door Jamb: Check the driver's side B-pillar or the door edge itself for a silver certification label.

On this label, scan the bottom row. You will typically see "BC/CC" (Basecoat/Clearcoat) followed by a code that starts with the letter "U" (Upper) or "WA". For example, if your Tahoe is Silver Ice Metallic, the sticker will read "U636R" or "WA636R".

Best touch-up paint sources

Once you have your exact "WA" code, it’s time to source your paint. For the most accurate matches, consider these top suppliers:

• AutomotiveTouchup: Highly recommended for custom-mixed aerosol sprays and touch-up bottles that provide an exact OEM match.
• Dupli-Color: Available at most local auto parts stores, they offer convenient 2-in-1 scratch fix pens. Great for minor chips on common colors like Summit White or Black.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: A great option for specialized scratch repair kits that include leveling agents for a seamless finish.
• Your Local Chevrolet Dealer: OEM AC Delco touch-up pens and small brush bottles are available right at the parts counter, guaranteeing a factory match.

How to use touch-up paint

For a durable, invisible repair, preparation and patience are key. Follow these steps:

1. Clean: Thoroughly wash the chipped area with soap and water. Follow up with a wax and grease remover or rubbing alcohol to ensure no residues are left behind.
2. Primer: If the scratch goes down to bare metal or plastic, carefully apply a thin layer of automotive primer to prevent rust and help the paint adhere. Let it dry completely.
3. Base Coat: Apply the color coat in light, thin layers using a fine-tipped brush or toothpick. Wait 15-20 minutes between coats until the color covers the primer completely.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is fully dry (usually after a few hours), apply the clear coat. The clear coat provides the UV protection and the glossy finish that matches the rest of your vehicle.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Colors like Iridescent Pearl Tricoat (G1W) require a slightly different approach. A tri-coat paint consists of three layers: a solid base coat, a semi-transparent pearl/mica mid-coat, and a clear coat.

When touching up a tri-coat:

• Practice first: Test the paint on a piece of scrap metal or cardboard. The final color changes depending on how many layers of the pearl mid-coat you apply.
• Apply the base: Lay down the solid base coat until the blemish is covered.
• Layer the pearl lightly: Apply the mid-coat very thinly. Compare the shimmer to the surrounding paint before applying another layer.
• Blend carefully: Aerosol sprays often blend tri-coats better than brush-on pens because the metallic flakes lay down more evenly.

If the damage to your Tahoe extends beyond a simple rock chip or scratch, DIY touch-up paint might not be enough.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.