2021 Ram 1500 Paint Codes

Every factory paint color for the 2021 Ram 1500, with paint codes and tips for a perfect match.

Quick Reference

Where to Find Your Paint Code

For all Ram trucks, including the 2021 Ram 1500, the paint code is located on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a black sticker on the B-pillar (the post between the front and rear doors). This is the Vehicle Certification Label.

On this sticker, you will find various bits of information about your truck, such as VIN, tire pressure, and build date. Look for the "PAINT" or "PNT" heading. The code listed next to it is your factory paint code (e.g., PW7, PXJ, PRV).

Always confirm this code before ordering paint to ensure a perfect match.

Best Touch-Up Paint Sources

Once you have your paint code, you have several good options for sourcing touch-up paint:

• Dupli-Color: Widely available at auto parts stores, Dupli-Color offers ready-to-use pens, bottles, and aerosol cans for many common Ram colors. It's a great choice for small chips and scratches.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer provides custom-mixed paint in various formats (pens, bottles, spray cans, and larger quantities for spray guns). They have a reputation for excellent color matching based on your factory code.
• Dealer: Your local Ram or FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) dealership parts department can supply you with official Mopar touch-up paint. This is often the most reliable way to get a factory-matched color, although it may be more expensive.
• T-Coat Custom Mix: For larger repairs or if you need a specific formulation, many automotive paint supply stores can custom-mix your color in an aerosol can or for use in a professional spray gun.

How to Use Touch-Up Paint

For a professional-looking repair, follow these steps:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, followed by a wax and grease remover to ensure the paint adheres properly.
2. Primer: If the chip has gone down to bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. This prevents rust and helps the color coat stick.
3. Base Coat: Apply thin, even layers of your color-matched base coat. Allow each layer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions (usually 15–30 minutes). Build up the color until the chip is filled and the color looks uniform.
4. Clear Coat: After the final base coat has dried, apply one or two thin layers of clear coat. This protects the base coat, adds gloss, and makes the repair blend in with the surrounding paint.

Color Matching Tips for Pearls and Tri-Coats

Colors like Diamond Black Crystal Pearl (PXJ), Ivory White Tri-Coat (PWD), and Delmonico Red Pearl (PRV) require special attention for a seamless repair. These paints get their depth and sparkle from multiple layers.

• Pearls: These colors have a base color and a second "mid-coat" containing pearl flakes. When touching up, it's crucial to apply the base and mid-coats exactly as specified by the paint supplier to replicate the factory effect.
• Tri-Coats: These are even more complex, consisting of a solid base coat, a translucent pearl mid-coat, and a final clear coat. Achieving a perfect match often requires blending the new paint into the surrounding area. For anything larger than a tiny stone chip, a professional repair is often recommended for tri-coat colors.

When in doubt, especially with pearl, metallic, or tri-coat finishes, confirm your paint code with a dealer or paint supplier using your VIN. This will ensure you get the correct formulation for your truck.

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