2017 Ford Explorer Paint Color Codes and Touch-Up Guide

Finding the exact paint color for your 2017 Ford Explorer is crucial whether you are repairing a minor scratch from the grocery store parking lot or replacing an entire body panel. Ford used a variety of beautiful solids, metallics, and complex tri-coats for the 2017 Explorer lineup. Using the correct paint code ensures a seamless, factory-quality repair.

Quick reference

Below is a quick reference guide to the factory paint colors available for the 2017 Ford Explorer. Always verify your specific paint code before ordering any touch-up materials.

Note: If you are unsure of your exact color, always confirm your paint code via your VIN at a local Ford dealer or authorized paint supplier.

Where to find your paint code

Ford makes it relatively straightforward to find the paint code for your 2017 Explorer. The information is located on the Vehicle Certification Label (often referred to as the door-jamb sticker).

To find it, open the driver’s side front door and look at the B-pillar (the vertical structural column that the door latches to) or the door edge itself. You will see a large rectangular sticker with various weights, barcodes, and codes.

Look toward the bottom left of this sticker. You will see the word "EXT PNT" (Exterior Paint). Just below or next to "EXT PNT" will be a two-character code consisting of letters and/or numbers (for example, "Z1" for Oxford White or "J7" for Magnetic). This two-digit sequence is your exact factory paint code.

Best touch-up paint sources

Once you have your code, you need a high-quality paint to make the repair. Here are the best sources for finding the right match:

• Dupli-Color: A highly accessible option available at most auto parts stores. They offer exact-match pens and spray cans for popular Ford colors like Oxford White and Ingot Silver.
• AutomotiveTouchup: Excellent for larger jobs and harder-to-find colors. They custom-mix paint based on your exact code and offer it in bottles, spray cans, and pints/quarts for spray guns.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: A great online alternative that provides high-quality, custom-mixed paint solutions, often bundled with the necessary primers and clear coats.
• Ford Dealership (Motorcraft): Your local Ford parts department sells Motorcraft touch-up pens and small bottles. These are guaranteed to be the factory formulation and usually feature an abrasive prep tip, a paint applicator, and a clear coat in an all-in-one tube.

How to use touch-up paint

Applying touch-up paint correctly is just as important as buying the right color. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Clean: Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water, then use a wax and grease remover (or rubbing alcohol) to ensure no contaminants prevent the paint from adhering.
2. Primer: If the scratch goes down to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. Let it dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply the color (base coat) in very light, thin layers. Do not try to fill the scratch all at once, as this will lead to blobs. Wait 10 to 15 minutes between coats until the color fully covers the primer.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry (usually after 30-60 minutes), apply the clear coat. The clear coat protects the color and gives it the factory shine. After it cures for a few days, you can lightly polish the area to blend the repair into the surrounding paint.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

If your 2017 Ford Explorer is painted in a tri-coat like White Platinum (UG) or a tinted clearcoat like Ruby Red (RR), touching it up can be tricky. These paints consist of a solid base layer, a translucent pearl or tinted mid-coat, and a protective clear coat.

When touching up these colors, you will usually be supplied with two separate color bottles (Base and Mid/Pearl). Apply the base coat first until the scratch is hidden. Then, apply the mid-coat very sparingly. The mid-coat alters the color and adds the metallic/pearl effect; applying too much will make the repaired spot look significantly darker than the surrounding paint. Always practice on a piece of cardboard or scrap metal first to gauge how many mid-coats are needed to match your car's finish.

If the damage is extensive, DIY touch-ups on tri-coats rarely look perfect. Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.