2016 Freightliner Cascadia Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2016 Freightliner Cascadia, the paint code is typically located on a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look at the B-pillar (the vertical post between the front and rear doors, or the post where the door latches). The sticker, often white or silver, will contain various vehicle information, including a section labeled "Paint" or "Color" followed by the paint code. It may also be found on a label within the glove compartment or under the hood. If you have any difficulty locating it, your Freightliner dealer can provide the paint code using your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up paint on your 2016 Freightliner Cascadia, several reputable sources can help you achieve a good match:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers touch-up paint in pens, bottles, and aerosol cans. They have a good selection of common colors, and you can often find their products at automotive parts stores.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint to match your vehicle's exact factory color. They offer a comprehensive range of paint types, including base coat, mid-coat (for pearls/tri-coats), and clear coat, and can be a great option for a more precise match.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat provides custom-mixed paint solutions. They are known for their ability to match complex colors, including metallics and pearls, ensuring a high-quality repair.
• Dealer: Your Freightliner dealership can also supply touch-up paint that is guaranteed to be an exact match to your truck's original factory finish. While sometimes a bit more expensive, it removes any guesswork from the color matching process.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a professional-looking repair with touch-up paint depends on careful application:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the damaged area with soap and water, then follow with a wax and grease remover. Ensure the area is completely dry.
2. Prep (if needed): If there are any rust spots, gently remove them with fine-grit sandpaper. For deep scratches or chips, a fine primer may be necessary to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth finish. Allow the primer to dry completely.
3. Base Coat: Apply the base coat in thin, even layers. Allow each layer to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint. Shake the paint pen, bottle, or aerosol can thoroughly before and during application.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply two to three thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. This step is crucial for durability and a factory-like appearance.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

For metallic, pearl, or tri-coat finishes, color matching can be more challenging due to the multi-layered nature of these paints. These types of paints achieve their unique look through multiple layers, often including a colored base coat, a mid-coat containing metallic flakes or pearl pigments, and a clear coat.

• Multiple Layers: If your 2016 Freightliner Cascadia has a metallic or pearl paint, you will likely need a base coat and a separate clear coat. For tri-coat colors (which have a colored base, a translucent pearl mid-coat, and a clear coat), you will need all three components to achieve an accurate match. Ensure your touch-up kit includes all necessary layers.
• Application Technique: The way you apply metallic and pearl paints can significantly impact the final appearance. Apply thin, even layers, and pay attention to the spray pattern if using an aerosol. Overlapping too much or applying too thickly can cause blotches or an uneven metallic/pearl effect.
• Test Beforehand: If possible, test the touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area or a test card first. This allows you to practice your technique and ensure the color match is acceptable before applying it to the visible damaged area.

Never hesitate to confirm your paint code with a Freightliner dealer or a reputable paint supplier using your VIN to ensure you get the exact match for your truck. This is especially important for complex colors or if you are unsure of the code.

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