2021 International MV Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

The paint code for your 2021 International MV is typically located on the driver's side door jamb. Look for a sticker or plate that contains vehicle information, and the paint code will be among the details listed. It may also be found under the hood, often on the firewall or radiator support.

Best touch-up paint sources

For a 2021 International MV, you have several reliable options for obtaining touch-up paint:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand offering touch-up pens, paint bottles, and spray cans. They provide a good range of common colors, and you can often find their products at automotive parts stores.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint to precisely match your vehicle's factory color. They offer a variety of application options, including pens, bottles, aerosol cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their quality and color matching are generally excellent.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat offers custom-mixed paint solutions, which can be particularly useful for commercial vehicles where exact color matching is crucial for maintaining a professional appearance. They can often mix colors based on your paint code, ensuring a close match.
• Dealer: Your International dealer can provide OEM touch-up paint specifically formulated for your truck. While potentially more expensive, this option guarantees the most accurate color match and quality.

How to use touch-up paint

Using touch-up paint effectively can significantly improve the appearance of minor scratches and chips. Follow these general steps:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the area to be repaired with soap and water, then degrease it with rubbing alcohol or a wax and grease remover. This ensures proper adhesion.
2. Primer (if needed): For deep scratches that go down to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply thin, even coats of the base color, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Build up the paint until it's level with the surrounding surface. For metallic or pearl colors, this step is crucial for achieving the correct flake or pearl orientation.
4. 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 ample drying time between coats and for the final coat to cure.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

While the 2021 International MV primarily used solid colors, some custom orders or special editions might feature metallic or pearl finishes.

• Metallic Colors: These paints contain small metallic flakes that reflect light, giving the paint a shimmering effect. When applying touch-up paint, it's critical to apply thin, even coats. Spraying too thick or at an inconsistent angle can cause the metallic flakes to lay unevenly, resulting in a darker or lighter appearance than the surrounding paint. Blending outward from the repair area can help minimize this effect.
• Pearl (or Tri-Coat) Colors: Pearl paints incorporate mica particles that create a depth and iridescent effect. Tri-coat systems involve a base color, a mid-coat containing the pearl or iridescent pigments, and a final clear coat. Touching up these colors requires even more precision. The mid-coat is key to the pearl effect, and applying it too heavily or too lightly will significantly alter the final color. It's often recommended to practice on a test panel first to get the technique right. For significant repairs on pearl or tri-coat finishes, professional assistance is highly recommended to achieve an undetectable repair.

Never guess your paint code. If you are unsure about the specific color or its type (solid, metallic, or pearl) for your 2021 International MV, it is always best to verify the paint code through your VIN with an International dealer or a reputable automotive paint supplier. This will ensure you get the correct paint for the best possible match.

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