2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Paint Codes

Quick Reference

Where to Find Your Paint Code

For your 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the paint code is typically located on a sticker on the driver's side door jamb, or on the B-pillar (the pillar between the front and rear doors). This sticker often contains various vehicle information, including the VIN, and should clearly list the paint code. The paint code is usually a three or four-digit number, sometimes followed by a letter, and might be next to color-related text like "Paint" or "Color." While this is the most common location, it's always a good idea to double-check your owner's manual for exact instructions.

Best Touch-Up Paint Sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, several reputable sources offer quality paint that matches factory colors:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers a range of automotive touch-up paints in various forms (pens, bottles, spray cans). They often have good color matches for popular Mercedes-Benz colors.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint that is formulated to match your vehicle's exact factory color, based on the paint code. They offer a comprehensive selection for virtually all makes and models, including Mercedes-Benz. Their products come in pens, bottles, aerosol cans, and larger quantities for more extensive repairs.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat is another excellent option for custom-mixed paint. They pride themselves on precise color matching and offer a variety of application methods similar to AutomotiveTouchup. Their personalized service can be very helpful for harder-to-match colors.
• Dealer: Your Mercedes-Benz dealership can also provide genuine touch-up paint specifically designed for your Sprinter. While sometimes a bit more expensive, this ensures an exact factory match and might be the best option for less common or specialty colors.

How to Use Touch-Up Paint

Proper application of touch-up paint is key to achieving a good result:

1. Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then use a wax and grease remover to ensure it's free of contaminants.
2. Apply Primer (if needed): For deeper chips that have gone down to the bare metal or plastic, a thin coat of automotive primer is recommended to promote adhesion and prevent rust.
3. Apply Base Coat: Shake the touch-up paint well. Apply thin, even coats of the base color, allowing each coat to dry according to the product's instructions before applying the next. Build up the paint slowly until it's level with the surrounding surface. For metallic colors, apply an even, consistent pattern to avoid blotchiness.
4. Apply Clear Coat: Once the base coat is fully dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Again, thin, even coats are best.

Color Matching Tips for Pearls and Tri-Coats

Mercedes-Benz Sprinters typically use solid or metallic finishes, but some models and custom orders might feature pearl or tri-coat paints. These types of paints require a bit more care for touch-ups:

• Pearlescent Paints: These colors contain special pigments that create a shimmering effect and can appear to change color slightly depending on the light and viewing angle. Achieving a perfect match with touch-up paint can be challenging because the metallic and pearl flakes need to lay down in a consistent, even manner. Apply very thin coats and try to replicate the factory application method as closely as possible.
• Tri-Coat Paints: Tri-coat systems involve three distinct layers: a base color, a mid-coat (which contains the pearl or metallic effect), and a clear coat. Each layer contributes to the final color and depth. Touching up a tri-coat requires applying each of these layers individually. Patience and meticulous application are crucial for successful results.

For any color, especially metallics, pearls, or if you're unsure, it's always recommended to test the touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area or a test card first to ensure a good color match. If you have any doubts about a specific color code or need to verify a less common factory shade, it's best to contact a Mercedes-Benz dealer with your VIN or consult with a specialized automotive paint supplier who can verify the correct formulation.

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