2014 Nissan Frontier Paint Codes Guide & Touch-Up Tips

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2014 Nissan Frontier, the paint code is typically located on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a sticker on the door frame or the edge of the door itself. This sticker, often white or silver, will contain various vehicle information. The paint code is usually a three-character alphanumeric code, sometimes followed by a letter indicating the interior trim code. It might be labeled "COLOR" or "PAINT." For example, if your truck is "Super Black," you'll likely see "KH3" on this label.

Can't find it? Check your glove box or owner's manual.

If you don't see the code on the door jamb sticker, sometimes older service records or the original owner's manual will contain this information. As a last resort, your local Nissan dealership can provide the paint code using your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).

Best touch-up paint sources

Keeping your 2014 Nissan Frontier looking its best means addressing those inevitable chips and scratches. Here are some of the most reliable sources for touch-up paint:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option at most auto parts stores (like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O'Reilly Auto Parts). Dupli-Color often offers aerosol cans, paint pens, and brush bottles formulated to match factory colors. They are a good option for small chips and scratches.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paints that are said to be a precise match to your vehicle's factory finish. They offer a wider range of application methods, including pens, brush bottles, aerosol cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat is another excellent online resource for high-quality custom-mixed touch-up paint. Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, they use your paint code to precisely blend the color, ensuring a good match for your Frontier. Explore their website for various application options.
• Nissan Dealership: While sometimes a bit more expensive, your local Nissan dealership can order OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) touch-up paint specifically for your 2014 Frontier. This guarantees the most accurate color match, as it comes directly from the manufacturer.

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 dry it completely. You can use a wax and grease remover for optimal adhesion.
2. Apply Primer (if needed): For deeper scratches that expose bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry according to the product instructions.
3. Apply Base Coat: Apply several thin coats of your color-matched base paint. Allow each coat to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the paint until it's level with the surrounding area.
4. Apply Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a couple of thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and restore the shine. This is crucial for metallic and pearl finishes.
5. Wet Sand & Polish (Optional): For a truly seamless repair, after the clear coat has fully cured (usually 24-48 hours), you can carefully wet sand the area with very fine-grit sandpaper (2000-3000 grit) to smooth out any imperfections, then polish it to a shine.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

While the 2014 Nissan Frontier doesn't feature multi-stage pearl or tri-coat paints in its common factory options, it's important to understand the nuances of metallic finishes, which are prevalent. Metallic paints contain tiny metallic flakes that reflect light, creating a shimmering effect. When touching up metallic paint, it's especially important to:

• Apply thin coats: This helps to ensure even distribution of the metallic flakes, preventing a blotchy appearance.
• Maintain consistent spray distance (for aerosols): Inconsistent distance can lead to more or less metallic flake density in different areas.
• Blend carefully: Try to feather out the edges of your touch-up area to seamlessly blend it with the surrounding paint. This is easier with aerosol cans than with paint pens.

Always test your touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area or a test card first to ensure the color match and application technique before working on your vehicle.

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