2020 Nissan Frontier Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2020 Nissan Frontier trucks, you'll find the paint code located on the driver's side door jamb.

Open the driver's door and look for a sticker, usually white or silver, affixed to the door jamb or the B-pillar (the part of the car frame between the front and rear doors). This sticker contains various vehicle information, and your paint code will typically be listed under a "COLOR" or "PAINT" heading.

The paint code is usually a short alphanumeric code, often two or three characters long, sometimes followed by a two-character interior trim code. For example, you might see "COLOR: KAD" for Gun Metallic.

If you have trouble locating the sticker or identifying the paint code, you can also check your owner's manual or contact a Nissan dealership with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for assistance.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2020 Nissan Frontier, several reputable sources offer quality products designed to match your factory color:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers touch-up paint in pens, bottles, and aerosol cans. You can often find Dupli-Color products at automotive parts stores and online retailers. Make sure to use their vehicle color finder tool to ensure you get the correct paint code.

• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint, ensuring a precise match to your Frontier's factory color. They offer paint in various sizes, including small bottles with brushes, paint pens, and aerosol cans, as well as all the necessary primers and clear coats. Their website allows you to select your year, make, and model to find the exact paint you need.

• Tcoat custom-mix: A newer option in the touch-up market that offers custom-mixed paints, often touting a more environmentally friendly approach. Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, they aim for a precise color match.

• Dealership parts counter: Your local Nissan dealership can also supply genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) touch-up paint. While potentially a bit more expensive, this guarantees an exact factory match.

How to use touch-up paint

For the best results with touch-up paint, follow these general steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then dry it completely. Use a degreaser or rubbing alcohol to remove any wax or contaminants.
2. Apply primer (if necessary): If the chip goes down to bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Apply thin, even coats of your color-matched base paint. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. This is crucial for metallic and pearl finishes to achieve the correct depth and shine.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Many of the 2020 Nissan Frontier colors, such as Deep Blue Pearl, are metallic or pearl finishes. These types of paints can be more challenging to match seamlessly, especially for larger repairs.

• Metallic paints contain tiny metallic flakes that reflect light, giving the paint a shimmering effect. The direction and size of these flakes can affect the overall appearance, so applying the touch-up paint in consistent, even strokes is important.

• Pearl paints (often called tri-coat systems) utilize mica or ceramic particles to create a multi-dimensional, lustrous effect. These systems typically involve three layers: a base color, a mid-coat pearl effect, and a clear coat. For small touch-ups, a single touch-up bottle may blend the base and pearl effect. For larger repairs, achieving a perfect blend can be difficult for a novice. If your Frontier has a pearl finish and you're tackling more than just a pinprick chip, consider professional help for the best results.

For any significant paint damage, or if you're unsure about color matching, it's always best to consult a professional body shop.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.