2022 Freightliner M2 106 Paint Color Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2022 Freightliner M2 106, the paint code is typically located on the driver's side door jamb. Look for a sticker or plate that contains vehicle information, including VIN, gross vehicle weight ratings, and tire pressure recommendations. The paint code is usually a three or four-digit number, sometimes preceded by a letter, and might be labeled "Paint" or "Color Code." It's important to verify the exact location and format as Freightliner can have variations. If you're having trouble, consult your owner's manual or contact a Freightliner dealership with your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

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

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers a good range of colors in spray cans, paint pens, and brush bottles. They often have factory-matched colors for many commercial vehicles.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint designed to perfectly match your vehicle's factory color. They offer various sizes and application types, including aerosol cans, brush bottles, and larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their process involves using your paint code to create a precise match.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat provides custom-mixed paints, ensuring a high degree of accuracy for your specific Freightliner color.
• Dealer: Your local Freightliner dealership can provide factory-approved touch-up paint. While sometimes more expensive, this ensures the most accurate match straight from the manufacturer.

How to use touch-up paint

Applying touch-up paint correctly can make a significant difference in the appearance and protection of your truck. Follow these steps for best results:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the damaged area with soap and water, then an automotive degreaser, to remove any dirt, wax, or grease. Allow it to dry completely.
2. Primer (if necessary): If the scratch or chip has gone down to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. This promotes adhesion and helps prevent rust. Allow the primer to dry according to the product instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply the color coat in thin, even layers. Allow each coat to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint. Feather the edges to blend it in.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply several thin layers of clear coat. This protects the paint, provides a glossy finish, and helps blend the repair. Again, allow adequate drying time between coats.
5. Cure and Polish: Allow the touch-up paint to cure fully (this can take several days). Afterward, you can gently polish the area to achieve a seamless finish.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

While the 2022 Freightliner M2 106 typically uses solid and metallic finishes, understanding color matching for pearls and tri-coats is helpful for future reference or if a custom finish was applied. These types of paints are more complex and require extra care:

• Metallic Paints: These paints contain small metallic flakes that reflect light, giving them a shimmering effect. When touching up metallic paint, it's crucial to apply thin, even layers to ensure the metallic flakes lay down uniformly. Improper application can lead to a "blotchy" appearance or a noticeable color shift.
• Pearl Paints (Pearlescent): Pearl paints contain mica flakes or ceramic particles that create a multi-dimensional, shimmering effect that changes depending on the light and viewing angle. These are even more challenging than metallics to match perfectly.
• Tri-Coat Paints: As the name suggests, tri-coat paints consist of three layers: a colored base coat, a translucent pearl mid-coat, and a clear topcoat. Each layer contributes to the final color and effect. Matching these requires precise application of all three layers in the correct sequence and thickness. Because of their complexity, pearl and tri-coat repairs are often best left to professional body shops for seamless results.

For a perfectly matched touch-up, especially for any metallic or custom colors, it's always a good idea to confirm your paint code with a Freightliner dealer using your VIN. This ensures you get the exact formulation for your truck.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.