2016 Kenworth T680 Paint Codes

Quick Reference

Where to Find Your Paint Code

For your 2016 Kenworth T680, the paint code is typically located on a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a label on the B-pillar (the post between the front and rear doors) or on the edge of the door itself. This label will often contain various vehicle information, including a section specifically for "Paint" or "Color Code." Kenworth paint codes usually start with "L" followed by a series of numbers and letters, such as L0006EY. You might also see a "F13-" code, which is another common format for Kenworth.

If you have trouble locating it, refer to your owner's manual, or contact a Kenworth dealership with your VIN; they can provide the precise paint code for your truck.

Best Touch-Up Paint Sources

When it comes to maintaining the appearance of your 2016 Kenworth T680, having the right touch-up paint is crucial. Here are some reliable sources:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand offering a broad spectrum of automotive touch-up paints in pen, bottle, and aerosol formats. They are a good option for solid colors and minor chips.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed automotive paints. You can order paint precisely matched to your Kenworth's color code in various sizes, from small bottles to spray cans and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. They are an excellent choice for metallic and pearl finishes, as their custom mixing ensures better accuracy.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat provides custom-mixed paint solutions. They focus on delivering high-quality, vehicle-specific matches, which is particularly beneficial for complex colors.
• Dealership: Your Kenworth dealership can provide OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) touch-up paint. While sometimes pricier, OEM paint offers the most accurate match, especially for newer vehicles or those with specialized finishes.

How to Use Touch-Up Paint

Achieving a seamless repair with touch-up paint involves a few key steps:

1. Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then follow with a wax and grease remover. Ensure the surface is completely dry.
2. Apply Primer (if needed): For deeper scratches that expose bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply Base Coat: Shake your touch-up paint vigorously. Apply thin coats of the base color, allowing each coat to dry for 10-15 minutes before applying the next. Build up the color slowly until it matches the surrounding paint. Avoid applying too much paint at once, as this can lead to an uneven finish.
4. Apply Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply one or two thin layers of clear coat. This protects the paint and provides a glossy finish. Allow it to cure fully.
5. Wet Sanding and Polishing (Optional): For a truly professional finish, after the clear coat has fully cured (24-48 hours), you can lightly wet sand the repaired area with very fine-grit sandpaper (2000-3000 grit) and then polish it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding paint.

Color Matching Tips for Pearls and Tri-Coats

Many modern vehicles, including some heavy-duty trucks, feature metallic or pearl (referred to as tri-coat) paint finishes. These can be more challenging to match perfectly due to their multi-layered nature.

• Metallic Finishes: Metallic paints contain small metallic flakes that reflect light, giving the paint a shimmering effect. When applying metallic touch-up paint, ensure even application to prevent blotchiness. Slight variations in application technique can affect how the metallic flakes lay, leading to a visible difference. AutomotiveTouchup and Tcoat often provide better metallic matches due to their custom mixing capabilities.
• Pearl/Tri-Coat Finishes: Tri-coat paints involve three layers: a base color, a mid-coat (the pearl effect layer), and a clear coat. Without the correct mid-coat application, the pearl effect will not be replicated accurately. For these complex finishes, it's highly recommended to use custom-mixed paints specifically designed for multi-stage applications. Always follow the product's instructions very carefully, as the thickness of each layer significantly impacts the final appearance.

If you are uncertain about your truck's specific color or finish, or if you have a custom paint job, always verify your paint code with a Kenworth dealer or a specialized automotive paint supplier using your VIN. This will ensure you get the most accurate match for your repair.

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