2016 Subaru Crosstrek Paint Codes

Quick Reference

Finding the right paint for your 2016 Subaru Crosstrek is crucial for a seamless repair. This guide covers every factory color offered for this model year, helping you identify the exact match for your vehicle. Below is a quick reference table of all official paint colors and their corresponding codes.

Note: Pearl and Metallic finishes can be challenging to match perfectly with a simple touch-up pen due to the way they reflect light. For larger repairs, a professional spray may be necessary.

Where to Find Your Paint Code

Subaru makes it straightforward to find your paint code. The information is located on the manufacturer's ID plate, which is a silver placard found in one of two common locations:

1. Driver's Side Door Jamb: Open the driver's door and look on the B-pillar, in the area where the door latches. You will find a silver plate containing various vehicle specifications, including the VIN.
2. Under the Hood: On some models, this plate is located in the engine bay, typically affixed to the passenger-side strut tower.

On this plate, look for the "COLOR CODE" designation. The code will be a three-character alphanumeric string, such as "K1X" for Crystal White Pearl or "H6Q" for Desert Khaki. Always use this code, not just the color name, to order paint, as manufacturers sometimes use similar names for different shades.

Best Touch-Up Paint Sources

Once you have your paint code, you have several excellent options for purchasing touch-up paint. The best choice depends on the size of your repair and your budget.

• Dupli-Color: Widely available at auto parts stores, Dupli-Color offers a range of applicators, from simple pens for small chips to aerosol sprays for larger scuffs. Their products are a good balance of cost and quality for minor DIY repairs.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer provides professional-grade, custom-mixed paint that is guaranteed to match your factory color code. They offer pens, bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans. Their kits often include primer and clear coat for a complete repair.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: For a premium match, especially for pearl and metallic finishes, consider a custom-mixed solution from a supplier like Tcoat. They can create a batch of paint based on your specific code, ensuring the highest accuracy.
• Subaru Dealership: Your local dealer’s parts department can sell you touch-up pens or bottles directly. This is often the quickest way to get a guaranteed factory-match paint, though it may be slightly more expensive.

How to Use Touch-Up Paint

A successful touch-up job requires patience and a methodical approach. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Clean: Thoroughly wash and dry the damaged area to remove all wax, grease, and road grime. Use a wax and grease remover or isopropyl alcohol for a perfectly clean surface.
2. Primer: For deep scratches or chips that expose bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. This helps the base coat adhere properly and prevents rust. Allow it to dry completely.
3. Base Coat: Shake the paint applicator well. Apply thin, even layers of the color-matched base coat, allowing each layer to dry for at least 30 minutes. Build up the color gradually until it fills the scratch and is level with the surrounding paint.
4. Clear Coat: After the final base coat has cured (check the paint manufacturer’s instructions), apply one or two thin layers of clear coat. This protective layer adds gloss and durability, blending the repair into the surrounding finish.

Color Matching Tips for Pearls and Tri-Coats

Pearl, metallic, and "tri-coat" finishes (like Crystal White Pearl) are notoriously difficult to match with a simple touch-up. The metallic and pearlescent flakes in the paint create depth and change appearance depending on the viewing angle and light source.

When repairing these colors, always use a test card before applying paint to your vehicle. Spray a small amount of the base coat and clear coat onto the card to see how it dries and compares to your car’s finish in different lighting conditions. For larger areas, blending the new paint into the adjacent panel is a technique best left to professionals, as it requires a spray gun and a high level of skill to achieve an invisible repair.

If you are ever uncertain about your paint code or the complexity of a repair, consult your local Subaru dealer or a trusted paint supplier. They can confirm your code using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and provide expert advice.

For larger repairs or if you want a guaranteed professional result, find a trusted body shop on Repairius.