2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Paint Codes

Looking to touch up a scratch or planning a bigger repair for your 2021 GMC Sierra 1500? Knowing your truck's exact paint code is crucial for a seamless match. This guide provides a comprehensive list of all factory paint codes for the 2021 Sierra 1500, along with instructions on where to find your paint code and tips for successful touch-ups.

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 trucks, you'll find the paint code located on a sticker in the glove box. This sticker is typically a Service Parts Identification (SPID) label, which lists various RPO (Regular Production Option) codes for your vehicle. Look for a section that begins with "BC/CC" followed by a letter and a three-digit number, often in parentheses. For example, "BC/CC U 202" indicates a paint code of 202 (or GBA). If for some reason the glove box sticker is missing or unreadable, another common location is on the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Best touch-up paint sources

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option at auto parts stores, Dupli-Color offers aerosol cans and paint pens that are color-matched to your original factory color. They are a good starting point for small chips and scratches.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint, offering a wide range of products including paint pens, brush bottles, and aerosol cans. They pride themselves on precise color matching.
• Tcoat custom-mix: For unique or hard-to-match colors, Tcoat offers custom-mixed formulations to perfectly match your vehicle's paint. This is an excellent option for pearl and tri-coat finishes.
• Dealership: Your local GMC dealership can also provide touch-up paint pens or spray cans directly matched to your Sierra 1500's VIN, ensuring the highest accuracy.

How to use touch-up paint

While the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the product, a general guide for using touch-up paint is as follows:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then dry it completely. You can also use a wax and grease remover for optimal adhesion.
2. Apply primer (if needed): For deeper scratches that expose bare metal or plastic, a thin layer of primer is recommended. 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 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 a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a smooth, glossy finish. Again, apply thin layers and allow adequate drying time.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like the Red Quartz Tintcoat or Cayenne Red Tintcoat on the 2021 Sierra 1500, are more complex than solid colors. They achieve their depth and shimmer through multiple layers, typically a base coat, a mid-coat (with pearl or metallic flakes), and a clear coat. When matching these colors, it's crucial to consider:

• Professional products: For the best results, especially on larger repairs, consider professional-grade touch-up kits or having a body shop handle the repair. These kits are designed to replicate the multi-layer process.
• Application technique: The way you apply pearl and tri-coat touch-up paint significantly impacts the final look. Practice on a discreet area if possible.
• Lighting: Always evaluate your color match in various lighting conditions, including direct sunlight and shade, as these paints can appear different depending on the light.

Never invent codes — if you are uncertain about a specific color, list the well-known popular colors only and tell the reader to confirm via VIN at the dealer or paint supplier. Always confirm your paint code with your VIN at a GMC dealership or reputable auto paint supplier to ensure an accurate match.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.