2017 Freightliner M2 106 Paint Codes

Quick reference

Note: Freightliner offers a vast array of custom colors. This table lists some of the most common factory colors. Always verify your specific paint code.

Where to find your paint code

For your 2017 Freightliner M2 106, the paint code can typically be found on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb or in the glove compartment. This sticker, often white or silver, will contain various vehicle information, including a section labeled "EXT PNT" or similar, followed by a series of numbers or letters. This is your paint code. If you have difficulty locating it, your Freightliner dealership or a heavy-duty truck parts supplier can assist you by looking up the code using your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to maintaining the finish of your Freightliner M2 106, having the right touch-up paint is crucial. Here are some reliable sources:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers touch-up paint in pens, bottles, and spray cans. They have a good selection for many commercial vehicle colors.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint based on your vehicle's exact paint code. They offer a wider range of colors and types, including metallic and pearl finishes, which are common on heavy-duty trucks.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: (If applicable for heavy-duty) Tcoat also provides custom-mixed paint. Verify their offerings for commercial vehicles.
• Freightliner Dealership: Your local Freightliner dealership can order genuine touch-up paint for your M2 106. This is often the most accurate option, especially for less common or specialty colors.

How to use touch-up paint

Applying touch-up paint correctly can make a big difference in the final appearance. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Clean the Area: Thoroughly wash and dry the area to be touched up. Use a degreaser or rubbing alcohol to remove any wax or contaminants.
2. Sand (Optional): For deeper scratches or chips, gently sand with very fine-grit sandpaper (2000-grit or higher) to smooth the edges. Clean again.
3. Apply Primer: If the bare metal is exposed, apply a thin coat of automotive primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
4. Apply Base Coat: Shake your touch-up paint bottle or pen thoroughly. Apply thin, even coats to the chipped or scratched area, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually until it's level with the surrounding surface.
5. Apply Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply one or two thin coats of clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Allow it to cure fully.
6. Polish (Optional): After the clear coat has fully cured (24-48 hours), you can gently polish the area with a fine automotive polishing compound to blend the touched-up area with the surrounding paint.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

While most heavy-duty truck colors are solid, some may feature metallic or pearl finishes. These require extra care when touching up:

• Metallic Colors: Metallic paints contain small metal flakes that reflect light, creating a sparkle effect. When applying metallic touch-up paint, ensure even coats to avoid blotchiness. Slight variations in application can affect the flake orientation, leading to a subtle color shift.
• Pearl/Tri-Coat Colors: These paints have multiple layers; a base color, a translucent pearl mid-coat, and a clear coat. Factory processes apply these meticulously. Duplicating this with touch-up can be challenging. For these colors, it is even more critical to apply very thin, even coats of each layer and allow ample drying time. For best results on significant repairs involving pearl or tri-coat finishes, consider consulting a professional body shop.

Remember, precise color matching, especially on older vehicles or those with sun exposure, can be difficult. For absolute assurance, using your VIN at a Freightliner dealer or a specialized paint supplier is recommended.

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