2018 Nissan Titan Paint Codes & Touch-Up Guide

Finding the right paint code for your 2018 Nissan Titan is essential whether you're touching up a small scratch or getting a larger repair done. This guide provides a comprehensive list of factory paint codes, instructions on where to find your vehicle's specific code, and tips for effective touch-up painting.

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2018 Nissan Titan, the paint code is most commonly located on the "Service Parts Identification" sticker. This sticker is typically found on the driver's side door jamb (the area visible when the driver's door is open). It's a white or silver label that contains various vehicle information, including your VIN and manufacturing details. The paint code is usually a three-character alphanumeric code, sometimes followed by a two-digit trim code. Look for a label that says "COLOR" or "PAINT" next to the code.

If you can't find it there, check the glove compartment or under the hood. In rare cases, some older vehicles might have it stamped on the firewall. If you are still having trouble locating it, your Nissan dealership parts department can provide the exact code using your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option at most auto parts stores. Dupli-Color offers aerosol cans, paint pens, and brush bottles for a variety of Nissan colors. Ensure you get the correct formulation (e.g., base coat, clear coat).
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint that is matched to your specific vehicle's paint code. They offer a comprehensive range of products, including pens, brush bottles, aerosol cans, and larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their color matching is often highly accurate.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: (If available in your region) Tcoat offers custom-mixed paint solutions, often preferred by enthusiasts for their precise color matching and high-quality finishes. You'll likely need to order directly from their website.
• Dealership: Your Nissan dealership's parts department can sell you OEM touch-up paint. While sometimes pricier, these are guaranteed to be an exact match to the factory finish.

How to use touch-up paint

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the scratched or chipped area with soap and water, then an automotive degreaser or rubbing alcohol to remove any wax, grease, or dirt.
2. Apply primer (if needed): For deep scratches that go down to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Shake the touch-up paint thoroughly. Apply thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually until it's level with the surrounding area. 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. Again, use thin, even layers.
5. Cure and Polish: Allow the paint to cure completely (this can take several days). Once cured, you can gently polish the area with a rubbing compound and then a finishing polish to blend it seamlessly with the surrounding paint.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like Pearl White and Deep Blue Pearl, are more complex than solid or metallic colors. They contain multiple layers (a colored base coat, a mid-coat with pearl particles, and a clear coat) that create a unique depth and luster. Achieving a perfect match with touch-up paint can be challenging:

• Multiple layers are key: You'll typically need specific pearl mid-coats in addition to the base color. Follow the product instructions meticulously for the correct application of each layer.
• Application technique matters: The way pearl particles lay down can affect the final appearance. Try to mimic the factory application as much as possible, using light, even strokes.
• Test first: If possible, test the touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area or a scrap piece of metal to see how the color develops. This is especially important with pearl colors, as the final shade can vary based on the number of coats and application technique.
• Professional help: For larger chips or scratches on pearl or tri-coat finishes, consider consulting a professional body shop. They have the expertise and equipment to blend these complex colors more accurately.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.