2016 Ram 1500 Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2016 Ram 1500, the paint code is usually located on a sticker on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look at the jamb area – the vertical surface between the front and rear doors. The sticker will typically be white or silver and contain various vehicle information, including a barcode. Look for a two or three-character code, often preceded by "PNT" or "CLR". It might also be listed near other codes like "TRIM" or "EXT".

If you can't find it there, check the glove box for a build sheet or owner's manual, or consult your Ram dealership with your VIN. They can quickly provide the exact paint code for your truck.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2016 Ram 1500, several reputable sources offer quality products:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand, Dupli-Color offers aerosol cans, paint pens, and brush bottles. You can often find their products at automotive parts stores. Be sure to match your paint code precisely.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint, promising an exact match to your factory color. They offer a comprehensive range of products, including pens, bottles, spray cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their website allows you to easily select your year, make, and model to find your specific paint.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat is another excellent option for custom-mixed paint that precisely matches your vehicle's factory finish. They provide various application methods, including pens and spray cans, and are known for their color accuracy.
• Dealership: Your local Ram dealership can provide OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) touch-up paint. While potentially more expensive, it guarantees the original factory formulation.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a seamless touch-up requires a few steps:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the damaged area with soap and water, then an automotive degreaser or rubbing alcohol. Ensure it's dry and free of any wax or debris.
2. Primer (if needed): For deeper scratches that expose bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply thin, even coats of your color-matched base paint. Build up the color gradually, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. Avoid applying too much paint at once.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a couple of thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and give it a factory-like shine. This step is crucial for durability and a professional finish.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Many 2016 Ram 1500 colors, like Black Forest Green Pearl, Blue Streak Pearl, True Blue Pearl, and Western Brown Pearl, are "pearl" or "tri-coat" paints. These types of paints have an added layer of complexity due to their reflective metallic flakes or multiple layers of paint and pearl effects. This can make touch-ups more challenging:

• Layering is Key: Pearl and tri-coat paints achieve their depth and shimmer through multiple layers. When touching up, it's even more critical to apply very thin, even coats and allow sufficient drying time between each. Rushing the process can result in an uneven or dull finish.
• Light Source Matters: The appearance of pearl and metallic paints can vary depending on the angle of light. When applying and assessing your touch-up, try to do so in consistent lighting conditions.
• Practice: If you're new to pearl or tri-coat touch-ups, consider practicing on a discreet area or a scrap piece of metal to get a feel for the application.
• Professional Help: For larger or more noticeable damage on pearl or tri-coat finishes, it's often best to consult a professional body shop. They have the expertise and equipment to blend these complex colors seamlessly.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.