2022 Ford Explorer Paint Codes & Touch-Up Guide

Looking to touch up a scratch or ding on your 2022 Ford Explorer? This guide provides all the essential information you need, from factory paint codes to touch-up application tips.

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2022 Ford Explorer, the paint code is typically located on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a sticker on the door itself or on the B-pillar (the post between the front and rear doors). The sticker will contain various manufacturing details, and among them, you'll find a "EXT PNT" or "EXTERIOR PAINT" section followed by a two-digit alphanumeric code. This is your paint code. If you have any difficulty locating it, your Ford dealership can also provide this information using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Best touch-up paint sources

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option, Dupli-Color offers aerosol and paint pen touch-up solutions that can be found at most automotive parts stores.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint, guaranteeing a precise match to your Explorer's factory finish. They offer various sizes, including pens, bottles, and aerosol cans.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Tcoat provides high-quality, custom-mixed touch-up paints, often regarded for their accuracy, especially for complex colors.
• Dealership: Your local Ford dealership can provide OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) touch-up paint, ensuring the most accurate match. They will typically ask for your VIN to confirm the exact color.

How to use touch-up paint

For the best results, follow these steps when applying touch-up paint:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the area to be repaired with soap and water, then degreaser, to remove any dirt, wax, or contaminants.
2. Prime (if necessary): For deeper scratches or exposed bare metal, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product's instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply thin, even coats of your paint code-matched base coat. Allow each coat to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually until it's level with the surrounding surface.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply several thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. This step is crucial for durability and a seamless look.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat or Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, are complex multi-stage finishes. They consist of a base color, followed by a mid-coat (the pearl effect), and then a clear coat. For these colors, precise application is even more critical. When using touch-up paint, ensure you follow the instructions for each stage carefully. Slight variations in application can result in a noticeable difference in shimmer or color depth. Always test your touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area or a test card first to familiarize yourself with how it applies and dries, especially with these nuanced colors.

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