2023 Ford Ranger Paint Codes: Your Guide to Perfect Color Matching

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2023 Ford Ranger, the paint code can typically be found on the driver's side door jamb sticker. Open the driver's door and look for a label affixed to the door frame. On this sticker, you will find various vehicle information, including a section labeled "EXT PNT" or "EXTERIOR PAINT". The two-character code next to this label is your vehicle's paint code.

In some cases, the sticker might be located on the B-pillar (the vertical doorframe between the front and rear doors). If you have trouble locating it, your owner's manual will have a diagram indicating the exact location of this label. If all else fails, a Ford dealership can provide the paint code using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Best touch-up paint sources

There are several reliable sources for obtaining touch-up paint that matches your 2023 Ford Ranger's factory finish:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand, Dupli-Color offers aerosol cans, paint pens, and brush bottles for various Ford colors. You can often find their products at auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint, promising an exact match to your vehicle's factory color. They offer a comprehensive range of products, including pens, bottles, aerosol cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their website allows you to select your year, make, and model to find the precise paint code.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Tcoat provides custom-mixed touch-up paints in various applications, ensuring a good match for your Ranger. They are a great option for hard-to-find colors or for those seeking a high-quality, matched product.
• Dealership: Your local Ford dealership parts department can supply OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) touch-up paint. While potentially more expensive, this guarantees an exact factory match and is often the best choice for pearl or metallic finishes.

How to use touch-up paint

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

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly wash and degrease the damaged area to remove any dirt, wax, or contaminants. Use an automotive-specific cleaner.
2. Apply primer (if necessary): For deep scratches or chips that expose bare metal, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Shake your touch-up paint well. Apply thin, even coats of the base color, allowing each coat to dry to the touch before applying the next. Build up the paint in thin layers until it is level with the surrounding paint. Avoid applying too much paint at once, which can lead to drips and an uneven finish.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply several thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and restore its gloss. Again, allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
5. Cure and polish: Allow the touch-up paint to cure for the recommended time (this can vary from a few days to a few weeks). Once cured, you can gently polish the area with a fine-grit rubbing compound to blend the touch-up with the surrounding paint and achieve a smooth finish.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like the Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat, are made up of multiple layers, typically a base color, a mid-coat containing pearl or metallic flakes, and a clear coat. This multi-layered composition can make touch-ups more challenging:

• Layering is key: For pearl colors, it