2019 Freightliner Cascadia Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most Freightliner Cascadia trucks, the paint code can be found on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. This sticker typically contains various vehicle information, including the VIN, gross vehicle weight ratings, and sometimes tire pressure recommendations. Look for a label that explicitly states "Paint Code" or "Color Code" followed by a series of alphanumeric characters. It may also be on a separate RPO (Regular Production Option) sticker. If you have difficulty locating it, your local Freightliner dealer parts department can provide this information using your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option, Dupli-Color offers a good range of touch-up paint products, including pens, bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans. Their products are often found at auto parts stores and online retailers.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paints to perfectly match your vehicle's factory color. They offer various sizes and application types, including small bottles and aerosol cans. They use your specific paint code to ensure accuracy.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat provides custom-mixed paint solutions. They are known for their quality and ability to match even complex colors, including pearls and tri-coats. This is an excellent option for more challenging matches.
• Dealerships: Your local Freightliner dealership can order genuine factory touch-up paint. While sometimes pricier, this option guarantees an exact match to the original factory finish.

How to use touch-up paint

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then dry it completely. You can use rubbing alcohol to remove any wax or polish residue.
2. Apply primer (if needed): For deeper chips that expose bare metal or plastic, apply a thin coat of automotive primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Apply several thin coats of the base color, allowing each coat to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply two to three thin coats of clear coat. This protects the base paint and provides a glossy finish. Allow it to cure completely.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints are multi-layered finishes that present a unique challenge for touch-ups. They achieve their depth and iridescent effect through multiple layers of paint, including a colored base coat, a mid-coat containing pearl or metallic flakes, and a clear coat.

• Order a custom mix: For the best results with pearl or tri-coat finishes, it is highly recommended to order custom-mixed paint from a reputable supplier like AutomotiveTouchup or Tcoat Custom-Mix. They formulate the paint to replicate the factory layering.
• Practice first: If you're using a custom kit, practice on a hidden area or a scrap piece of metal to get a feel for the application and the desired effect before touching up your truck.
• Apply thin, even coats: The key to success with these complex paints is applying very thin, even coats for each layer. Building up the color slowly will prevent an uneven or patchy appearance.
• Consider professional help: For larger or more prominent damage on pearl or tri-coat finishes, you might consider professional body shop repair to ensure a seamless match.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.