2023 International LT Paint Color Codes & Touch-Up Guide

Keeping your 2023 International LT looking professional is crucial for maintaining your fleet's image and resale value. Whether you are dealing with stone chips from the highway or minor scratches from loading docks, having the correct paint code is the first step to a flawless repair. Since the International LT is a heavy-duty commercial truck, it is frequently painted in standard fleet colors, though custom ordering is common.

Below is a comprehensive guide to finding your 2023 International LT paint code, common factory colors, and tips for applying touch-up paint.

Quick reference

Because commercial trucks are heavily customized for specific fleets, your 2023 International LT may have a bespoke paint job. However, the table below represents some of the most common standard factory and popular fleet colors offered by International/Navistar.

Note: Because commercial fleet colors are highly variable, always confirm your exact paint code via your VIN at a Navistar/International dealer or paint supplier before purchasing touch-up paint.

Where to find your paint code

Unlike passenger cars, commercial trucks like the International LT have specific build sheets and data plates. To find your exact paint code, check the following locations:

1. The Driver’s Door Jamb: Open the driver’s side door and look for the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and certification label. The paint code is often printed near the bottom of this sticker, sometimes labeled as "Paint" or "PNT."
2. The Line Setting Ticket: International trucks come with a Line Setting Ticket (usually located in the glove box, underneath the sun visor, or with the owner's manual). This document details exactly how the truck was built on the assembly line, including the specific Navistar paint code used for the cab, chassis, and wheels.
3. Call the Dealer: If the label is faded or missing, simply call your local International Truck dealership's parts department. Provide them with the last 8 digits of your VIN, and they can pull up the factory paint code in their system.

Best touch-up paint sources

Once you have your code, you need high-quality paint to make the repair. Here are the best sources for your 2023 International LT:

• International Dealerships: The most reliable source for an exact match, especially for standard Navistar colors like Winter White or Harvester Red. They offer paint pens and small brush bottles.
• AutomotiveTouchup: An excellent online retailer that can custom-mix paint based on your specific Navistar/International paint code. They offer everything from half-ounce touch-up bottles to aerosol spray cans and bulk pints for spray guns.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Another great online option for custom-mixed heavy-duty truck colors, offering specialized kits that include primer, base coat, and clear coat.
• Dupli-Color: While they mostly focus on passenger vehicles, Dupli-Color offers "Exact-Match" lines and universal fleet colors (like basic gloss black, white, and red) that may perfectly match standard solid fleet colors.

How to use touch-up paint

For a durable repair that withstands the rigors of the road, follow these steps:

1. Clean the Area: Wash the damaged area with soap and water. Once dry, use a wax and grease remover (or rubbing alcohol) to eliminate any road grime, diesel exhaust fluid residue, or wax.
2. Apply Primer: If the scratch or chip reaches bare metal or fiberglass, apply a light coat of automotive primer. Let it dry completely (usually 20-30 minutes).
3. Apply the Base Coat: Shake the touch-up paint vigorously. Apply the color in thin, light layers using a fine-tipped brush or toothpick. Do not glob the paint on. Allow 15-20 minutes of drying time between each coat until the chip is filled.
4. Apply Clear Coat: Once the final base coat is dry (wait at least an hour), apply a layer of clear coat to seal the repair, provide UV protection, and match the surrounding glossy finish.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

While most fleet trucks use durable single-stage or solid two-stage paints, owner-operator International LTs are sometimes ordered with premium metallic, pearl, or tri-coat finishes.

• Tri-Coats: If your truck has a tri-coat finish (a base color, a translucent pearl mid-coat, and a clear topcoat), you must apply the layers in the exact right order. Practice on a piece of scrap metal first to determine how many mid-coats are needed to match the factory depth.
• Metallics: Metallic paints contain metal flakes that reflect light. When using an aerosol touch-up, spray from the recommended distance (usually 8-12 inches) to ensure the flakes lay down evenly. If applying with a brush, dab the paint gently rather than brushing it, which can cause the metallic flakes to streak.
• Fading: If your truck has been sitting in the sun, the paint may have faded slightly. Blending the touch-up paint or using a mild polishing compound on the surrounding area can help integrate the new paint with the old.

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