2018 Kenworth T680 Paint Codes

Quick Reference

Kenworth offers a wide range of colors for the T680, and many of these can be solid, metallic, or pearl finishes depending on your specific truck's configuration. For precise paint type information (Solid/Metallic/Pearl) always refer to your truck's unique build sheet or a Kenworth dealership with your VIN.

Where to Find Your Paint Code

For most 2018 Kenworth T680 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 that typically contains information about tire pressure, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), and other vehicle specifications. The paint code is usually clearly labeled as "PAINT" or "COLOR" followed by an alphanumeric code.

Occasionally, the sticker might be located on the B-pillar (the structural post between the front and rear door hinges) or in the glove compartment. If you're having trouble locating it, your Kenworth dealer can provide the paint code using your truck's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Best Touch-Up Paint Sources

When it comes to maintaining the finish of your 2018 Kenworth T680, having the right touch-up paint is crucial. Here are some of the best sources:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers a good selection of automotive touch-up paints in aerosol cans, paint pens, and small bottles. While they might not have every single Kenworth specific color, their universal color matches can often be very close for solid colors. Always check their color charts or use their online look-up tool to find the closest match.

• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed automotive paints, making them an excellent choice for achieving a precise match, especially for metallic or pearl finishes. You can typically order paint based on your Kenworth's paint code, ensuring a much closer match than off-the-shelf options.

• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat provides custom-mixed paints, often offering a broader range of colors and types, including multi-stage paints for more complex finishes. Supplying your paint code and specifying the finish (solid, metallic, pearl) will help them create an accurate match.

• Kenworth Dealership: For the most accurate and guaranteed color match, your local Kenworth dealership is an invaluable resource. They can order genuine factory touch-up paint that precisely matches your truck's original finish, using your VIN for verification. This is often the best option for complex colors or tri-coats.

How to Use Touch-Up Paint

Using touch-up paint effectively requires a few steps for the best results:

1. Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the area to be touched up with soap and water, then follow with a wax and grease remover. Ensure the surface is completely dry and free of any contaminants.
2. Apply Primer (if needed): For deeper scratches that go down to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin coat of automotive primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply Base Coat: Apply several thin, even coats of your color-matched touch-up paint. Allow each coat to dry to the touch before applying the next. Building up layers slowly helps to achieve a smooth finish and prevents runs.
4. Apply Clear Coat: Once the base coat has dried completely, apply a clear coat. This protects the paint and provides a glossy finish that matches your truck's original paintwork. Again, several thin coats are better than one thick one.

Color Matching Tips for Pearls and Tri-Coats

Metallic and pearl colors, especially multi-stage and tri-coat finishes, can be challenging to match perfectly due to their unique properties that reflect light. Here are some tips:

• Test on a Discreet Area: Before applying touch-up paint to a prominent spot, test it on a hidden area (e.g., inside the door jamb or under the hood) to check the color match and application technique.
• Layering for Depth: For pearl and tri-coat colors, achieving the correct depth and shimmer often requires specific layering. Custom-mix suppliers like AutomotiveTouchup or Tcoat will provide instructions tailored to your specific paint, which might involve a base color, a pearl mid-coat, and then a clear coat.
• Blend Carefully: When touching up larger areas, carefully blend the new paint into the surrounding factory paint. This helps to minimize the appearance of a touch-up spot. This might involve feathering the edges of the applied paint.
• Professional Help: For significant damage or if you're unsure about matching a complex finish, consider consulting a professional body shop. They have specialized equipment and expertise to achieve seamless repairs.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.