2018 Ram ProMaster Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2018 Ram ProMaster vans, you'll find the paint code on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look at the jamb area – the part of the vehicle frame that the door latches into. The sticker will typically contain various vehicle information, and the paint code will be clearly labeled, often with "PAINT" or "PNT" preceding a three-character alphanumeric code. It might also be listed under a "C" for color code. If you have trouble locating it there, occasionally manufacturers place it in the glove compartment or under the hood, but the door jamb is by far the most common location for Ram vehicles.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2018 Ram ProMaster, several reliable sources can provide you with a perfect (or near-perfect) match:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand, Dupli-Color offers aerosol cans and paint pens that are color-matched to your vehicle's factory paint code. You can find them at most auto parts stores.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint for virtually any vehicle. They offer various sizes and application types, including pens, bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans. Their color matching is generally excellent.
• Tcoat custom-mix: For those seeking precision, Tcoat offers custom-mixed paint made to your exact OEM specifications. This is a great option for hard-to-match colors or for those who want a body shop quality repair for smaller areas.
• Dealership: Your local Ram dealership parts department can also order touch-up paint directly from the manufacturer, ensuring an exact match. This is often the most expensive option but guarantees authenticity.

How to use touch-up paint

Applying touch-up paint correctly can make a big difference in the final appearance:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the damaged area with soap and water, then degreaser, to remove any dirt, wax, or grease. Allow it to dry completely.
2. Apply primer (if needed): If the scratch goes down to bare metal or plastic, apply a thin coat of primer. Allow it to dry according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Apply several thin coats of your color-matched base coat, allowing each coat to dry for the recommended time between applications. Build up the color slowly until it matches the surrounding paint.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply several thin coats of clear coat to protect the paint and restore the shine. This step is crucial for durability and a professional finish.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like the Deep Cherry Red or Pearl White offered on the 2018 Ram ProMaster, can be more challenging to match perfectly due to their multi-layered composition. These paints typically consist of a colored base coat, a mid-coat containing pearl or metallic flakes, and a clear coat. When touching up:

• Apply thin, even coats: This is even more critical with pearl and tri-coat paints. Too much paint can make the repair area look darker or have an inconsistent flake appearance.
• Blend carefully: When applying the pearl or metallic mid-coat, try to blend it outwards slightly into the surrounding factory paint to minimize the appearance of an edge.
• Consider a professional: For larger or more prominent damage on pearl or tri-coat finishes, consulting a professional body shop might be the best option to achieve an unnoticeable repair.

If you're ever in doubt about your specific paint code or if your vehicle has a less common color, it's always best to verify with your VIN at a Ram dealership or a reputable paint supplier to ensure you get the exact match.

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