2016 Ford F-150 Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2016 Ford F-150 trucks, you'll find the paint code on the door jamb sticker. This sticker is typically located on the B-pillar (the post between the front and rear doors) on the driver's side. Open the driver's door and look for a white or silver label with various vehicle information. The paint code is usually listed under "EXT PNT" or "Exterior Paint Code." It will be a two-character code, sometimes followed by a letter or number indicating the specific shade or factory. If you have trouble locating it, your owner's manual will have a diagram, or you can contact a Ford dealership with your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2016 Ford F-150, several reputable brands offer color-matched solutions:

• Dupli-Color: Widely available at automotive parts stores, Dupli-Color offers touch-up paint in pens, bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans. They provide a good range of Ford F-150 colors and are a cost-effective option for DIY repairs.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint to match your vehicle's factory color precisely. You can order paint in pens, bottles, aerosol cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. They often provide excellent color accuracy, especially for metallic and pearl finishes.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat is another excellent online resource for precise color-matched touch-up paints. They use your specific paint code to create a custom mix, ensuring a near-perfect match for your F-150.
• Dealership: Your local Ford dealership can also provide genuine OEM touch-up paint. While often a bit more expensive, this ensures the highest level of color accuracy and quality, especially for unique or complex colors.

How to use touch-up paint

For best results, follow these general steps when using touch-up paint:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then dry it completely. Use a degreaser or rubbing alcohol to remove any wax or contaminants.
2. Apply primer (optional but recommended): For deeper chips that have gone through to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Shake the touch-up paint thoroughly. Apply thin, even layers of the base coat, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint. For pens, dab the paint onto the chip. For bottles with brushes, use light strokes.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Again, apply thin, even layers and allow adequate drying time.
5. Wet sand and polish (optional): For a professional finish, especially on larger repairs, you can carefully wet sand the area with very fine-grit sandpaper (2000-3000 grit) after the clear coat has fully cured. Follow this with a rubbing compound and polish to restore the shine.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat finishes, like the White Platinum Pearl, can be more challenging to match perfectly due to their multi-layered nature. These paints often consist of a ground coat, a mid-coat (containing the pearl or metallic flakes), and a clear coat. When touching up:

• Take your time: Apply very thin layers of each coat, allowing ample drying time between applications.
• Test on an inconspicuous area: If possible, test the touch-up paint on a hidden spot to assess the color match before applying it to the visible damage.
• Consider professional help: For larger scratches or if you're unsure about matching a complex pearl or tri-coat, a professional body shop will have the expertise and equipment to achieve a seamless repair.

Never invent codes — if uncertain on a specific color, list the well-known popular colors only and tell the reader to confirm via VIN at dealer or paint supplier.

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