2021 Honda Civic Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2021 Honda Civic models, your paint code can be found on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a label with vehicle information. The paint code is typically a short alphanumeric code, often beginning with "NH" for pearl and metallic finishes or a single letter followed by numbers for solid colors. It may be listed under "COLOR" or "EXT PNT." If you have trouble locating it, refer to your owner's manual or contact a Honda dealership with your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to keeping your 2021 Honda Civic looking its best, having the right touch-up paint is essential for addressing minor scratches and chips. Here are some of the best sources:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option, Dupli-Color offers a range of touch-up products for various makes and models, including aerosol cans and paint pens. They are a good choice for smaller repairs and offer a convenient DIY solution.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed automotive paints and offers a more precise match for your specific vehicle. They provide touch-up bottles, pens, aerosol cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their quality is generally higher than off-the-shelf options.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat is another excellent option for custom-mixed paint. They use your specific paint code to create a precise match, which is especially beneficial for pearl and metallic finishes where accurate color reproduction is crucial.
• Dealership: Your local Honda dealership can also supply genuine touch-up paint. While potentially more expensive, this ensures you are getting the exact factory formulation for your Civic.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a seamless repair with touch-up paint requires a few careful steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then an automotive-grade degreaser. Ensure it is completely dry before proceeding.
2. Apply primer (if needed): For deeper scratches that expose bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Shake your touch-up paint thoroughly. Apply thin, even coats to the damaged area, allowing each coat to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually until it's level with the surrounding surface. For metallic and pearl colors, multiple thin coats are crucial for proper flake or pearl orientation.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply several thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Allow it to cure fully.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like many offered on the 2021 Honda Civic, can be challenging to match perfectly due to their multi-layered composition. Here are some tips:

• Practice makes perfect: If you're new to touch-up, practice on a hidden area or a scrap piece of metal to get a feel for the application.
• Thin coats are key: For pearl colors such as Crystal Black Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, and Sonic Gray Pearl, applying too much paint at once can lead to an uneven appearance. Multiple, very thin coats allow the pearl effect to build correctly.
• Lighting is everything: Always check your work in various lighting conditions, including natural daylight, as the color can appear different. This is particularly true for metallic and pearl finishes.
• Blend carefully: When touching up, try to feather the edges of your repair slightly into the surrounding paint to minimize any visible lines.

Never invent codes. If you are uncertain about a specific color, always confirm the paint code using your VIN at a Honda dealership or a reputable automotive paint supplier. This will ensure you get the most accurate match for your 2021 Honda Civic.

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