2016 Honda Pilot Paint Color Codes

Quick Reference: 2016 Honda Pilot Colors

Finding the right paint for your 2016 Honda Pilot is crucial for a seamless repair. Below is a comprehensive list of all factory paint colors offered for this model year. Note that most of the colors for the Pilot are either metallic or pearl, which contain small flakes of aluminum or mica to give them a sparkling, multi-dimensional finish.

If you are uncertain about your vehicle's specific color, it is always best to confirm with a Honda dealership parts department using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Where to Find Your Paint Code

Honda makes it easy to find the paint code on your 2016 Pilot. The code is located on the Manufacturer's Certification Label (or "sticker") found on the driver's side door jamb.

1. Open the driver's side door.
2. Look at the area on the B-pillar (the vertical pillar behind the driver's door).
3. You will see a black sticker with vehicle information, including the VIN, manufacturing date, and weight limits.
4. Near the bottom of this sticker, you will find the paint code. It is clearly labeled next to the word "COLOR" and is typically a combination of letters and numbers, like NH-797M for Modern Steel Metallic.

This code is the key to getting an exact match for your vehicle's finish.

Best Touch-Up Paint Sources

Once you have your paint code, you have several options for sourcing high-quality touch-up paint:

• Dupli-Color: Widely available at auto parts stores, Dupli-Color offers a range of paint pens, brush-in-bottle applicators, and aerosol sprays that are formulated to match factory finishes.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in providing exact-match factory colors in a variety of sizes, from small touch-up pens to professional-sized spray cans and quarts. They are an excellent source for the specific codes listed above.
• Tcoat: For a precision match, especially for aging or sun-faded paint, a custom-mix supplier like Tcoat can be invaluable. They can mix paint to your exact code in a ready-to-spray aerosol can, providing a finer, more even application.
• Honda Dealership: Your local dealer’s parts department can sell you touch-up pens or bottles that are a guaranteed OEM match for your specific color code.

How to Use Touch-Up Paint

For small chips and scratches, a DIY touch-up job can yield great results if done patiently. The key is preparation and using thin coats.

1. Clean: The area must be completely free of wax, grease, and dirt. Use a prep solvent or a mixture of soap and water, followed by a wax and grease remover.
2. Primer: If the chip is down to bare metal or plastic, you must apply a small amount of automotive primer first. This helps the paint adhere properly and prevents rust. Let it dry completely.
3. Base Coat: Apply a very thin layer of your color-matched paint (the "base coat"). Let it dry for about 30 minutes, then apply another thin coat. Repeat until the damaged area is covered and level with the surrounding paint. Avoid applying one thick coat, as it will not dry properly and will lookblobby.
4. Clear Coat: All modern factory finishes have a protective clear coat. After your base coat is fully dry (wait at least an hour), apply one or two thin layers of clear coat. This protects the color coat and provides the glossy finish.

Color Matching Tips for Pearls and Tri-Coats

Matching pearl and metallic finishes like those on the 2016 Pilot can be challenging. The metallic flakes and pearl layers reflect light in a way that can make the color look different from various angles. White Diamond Pearl (NH-603P) is a "tri-coat" color, which means it has a solid base, a translucent pearl mid-coat, and a final clear coat, making it particularly difficult to match.

For these colors, an aerosol spray will almost always yield better results than a pen or brush. The spray application helps distribute the metallic or pearl flakes evenly, mimicking the factory process. Always use a test card to check your color match and technique before spraying directly onto the vehicle. Spray a sample on the card, let it dry, and hold it up to the car in direct sunlight to ensure it’s a good match.

For larger repairs or if you want a guaranteed perfect finish, professional application is recommended.

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