2018 Freightliner M2 106 Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2018 Freightliner M2 106, the paint code is typically located on the driver's side door jamb. Look for a sticker or plate that contains various vehicle information, including gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), tire pressure, and sometimes an axle code. The paint code is usually a six-digit number, often accompanied by the color name. If you have trouble locating it, check the glove compartment or owner's manual for vehicle information labels. You can also contact a Freightliner dealership with your VIN, and they will be able to provide you with the exact paint code.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touch-up paint for your Freightliner M2 106, several reliable options are available:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers touch-up pens, paint bottles, and spray cans in a variety of colors. While they may not have every single Freightliner color, they often carry popular fleet colors.

• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint. You can order paint precisely matched to your Freightliner's paint code in pens, bottles, spray cans, or even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. They are known for their accurate color matching.

• Tcoat custom-mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat offers custom-mixed paint solutions. Provide them with your paint code, and they can formulate the exact color for your truck.

• Freightliner Dealership: Your local Freightliner dealer can supply genuine OEM touch-up paint, ensuring a perfect match. This is often the most reliable option, especially for complex colors or if you want the absolute closest match.

How to use touch-up paint

Applying touch-up paint effectively can significantly improve the appearance of minor scratches and chips. Follow these general steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly wash and dry the damaged area to remove any dirt, wax, or grease. You can use a mild detergent or a dedicated automotive pre-paint cleaner.
2. Prime (if necessary): For deep scratches or bare metal, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. This helps the paint adhere better and prevents rust. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Shake the touch-up paint well. Apply thin, even 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. Avoid applying a thick single coat, as this can lead to unevenness and poor drying.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a clear coat. This protects the base coat and provides a glossy finish that matches the factory look. Apply in thin layers, allowing each to dry. Buffing the clear coat after it has fully cured can further enhance the blend.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

While most Freightliner M2 106 trucks come in solid colors, if your vehicle happens to have a metallic, pearl, or tri-coat finish, color matching requires extra care. These types of paints derive their appearance from multiple layers and specialized pigments:

• Metallics: Contain tiny metallic flakes that reflect light, giving the paint a shimmering effect. When applying metallic touch-up paint, it's crucial to apply it in thin, even coats to ensure the flakes lay down uniformly. Improper application can lead to a darker or lighter appearance.

• Pearls and Tri-coats: These finishes involve multiple layers to achieve their unique depth and color shift. A pearl paint typically has a base color, followed by a translucent pearl mid-coat, and then a clear coat. Tri-coats add another layer of complexity. For these, it's even more critical to follow the instructions precisely with your touch-up paint, often involving applying the pearl or mid-coat in a very specific way. Achieving a perfect match with touch-up for these finishes can be challenging, even for professionals. For significant damage, a professional repaint might be the best option.

Always confirm your paint code with your VIN at a dealer or paint supplier to ensure you get the correct color, especially if you suspect your truck has a specialized finish. Freightliner can sometimes have variations or special order colors not listed in general guides.

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