2017 Ford F-150 Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2017 Ford F-150 trucks, you'll find the paint code sticker on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a white or silver label, typically near the latch mechanism, attached to the B-pillar (the structural post between the front and rear doors). On this label, you'll see various vehicle information, including a "EXT PNT" or "Exterior Paint" section. The two-character code next to this label is your paint code. It's important to note that the paint code is usually a two-character alphanumeric code, not a color name. Always use the code for ordering touch-up paint or communicating with a body shop.

Occasionally, the sticker might be located in the glove compartment or under the hood, but the door jamb is the most common location for the F-150.

Best touch-up paint sources

To keep your 2017 Ford F-150 looking its best, promptly addressing minor scratches and chips with touch-up paint is essential. Here are some reliable sources:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers touch-up pens, paint bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans. You can usually find Dupli-Color products at auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts. Search for your specific paint code to ensure an accurate match.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint for virtually every make and model. They offer a comprehensive range of products, including pens, bottles, spray cans, and larger quantities for bigger repairs. Their paint is custom-mixed to your factory code, often providing a very good match.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Tcoat is another excellent online option for custom-mixed paint. They offer various applicators and are known for their color accuracy, especially for more complex colors like pearls and metallics.
• Dealership: Your local Ford dealership parts department can also supply genuine Ford touch-up paint. While potentially more expensive, these are guaranteed to be exact factory matches and sometimes come in convenient kits including primer and clear coat.

How to use touch-up paint

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

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water, then clean it with a wax and grease remover or rubbing alcohol to ensure a clean, dry surface free of contaminants.
2. Apply primer (if needed): For deeper scratches that expose bare metal or plastic, a thin layer of primer is recommended. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Apply the color (base) coat in thin, even layers. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. It's better to apply several thin coats than one thick coat.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Clear coat is crucial for UV protection and durability.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Some 2017 Ford F-150 colors, such as White Platinum (UG), are pearl or tri-coat finishes. These paints have multiple layers of specialty paint to achieve their unique depth and appearance. Matching these colors can be more challenging:

• Metallic paints: Colors like Magnetic (J7) and Ruby Red Metallic (RR) contain tiny metallic flakes that reflect light. When applying touch-up, ensure you shake the paint thoroughly to evenly disperse the metallic particles. Apply in thin coats to prevent blotching.
• Pearl/Tri-coat paints: These consist of a colored base coat, a mid-coat containing pearl particles, and a clear coat. For DIY touch-ups, it's often best to use products specifically designed for tri-coats, which will typically include separate base and mid-coat components. Due to the complexity, achieving a perfect, invisible repair with a DIY kit might be difficult. For larger repairs involving these colors, a professional body shop is highly recommended for optimal results.

If you have a pearl or tri-coat color and are unsure about the touch-up process, it's always best to consult with a paint supplier or a professional body shop.

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