2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty trucks, you'll find the paint code located on the driver's side door jamb sticker. This sticker typically contains a wealth of information about your vehicle, including the VIN, manufacturing date, and various weight ratings. Look for a label that specifically mentions "EXT PNT" or "Exterior Paint". The code will usually be a two-character alphanumeric code, sometimes followed by a letter indicating the specific shade or factory. Some F-350s may also have the paint code listed on a sticker in the glove compartment or under the hood. If you're having trouble locating it, your Ford dealership parts department can provide it using your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touch-up paint for your 2023 Ford F-350 Super Duty, several reputable sources offer quality products:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option at auto parts stores, Dupli-Color often provides aerosol cans and paint pens with factory-matched colors. They're a good choice for minor chips and scratches.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in factory-matched touch-up paint. They offer a broader range of application types, including paint pens, brush bottles, and aerosol cans, and are known for their precise color matching.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: For a truly custom-matched solution, especially if your truck has seen some sun fading or unique variations, a custom-mix paint provider like Tcoat can create a blend specifically for your vehicle. This is often a good option for larger repairs or when perfection is paramount.
• Dealership: Your local Ford dealership parts department can also provide OEM touch-up paint specifically formulated for your truck. While sometimes a bit more expensive, it guarantees an exact factory match.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a seamless repair with touch-up paint requires a few careful steps:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the damaged area with soap and water, then gently degrease it with rubbing alcohol to ensure proper adhesion.
2. Prime (if necessary): For deeper scratches that expose bare metal, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply your color-matched base coat in thin, even layers. Build up the color gradually, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. Avoid applying too much paint at once, as this can lead to drips and an uneven finish.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is completely dry, apply several thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. This is crucial for durability and a professional look.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paint finishes, like Rapid Red Metallic or Star White Metallic, are more complex than solid colors. They involve multiple layers of paint to achieve their unique depth and shimmer. This complexity means that touch-up can be more challenging:

• Layering is Key: These paints achieve their effect through specific layering. For tri-coats, you'll typically have a base color, a mid-coat (often a special pearl or metallic effect layer), and then a clear coat. It's essential to apply each layer correctly and in the right sequence, allowing adequate drying time between each.
• Feathering is Important: When applying touch-up to these complex finishes, try to "feather" the edges of your repair into the surrounding paint. This helps to blend the new paint seamlessly with the existing finish, minimizing noticeable lines.
• Consider Professional Help: For larger areas or if you're uncomfortable tackling a pearl or tri-coat repair yourself, it's often best to consult a professional body shop. They have the expertise and equipment to achieve an invisible repair for these sophisticated finishes.

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