2021 Subaru Forester Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

Your Subaru Forester's paint code is most commonly found on the sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look at the B-pillar (the post between the front and rear doors). The sticker will often contain a barcode and various vehicle information, including a section labeled "COLOR" or "PAINT." The code will be a combination of letters and numbers, typically three characters long. For example, "K1X" for Crystal White Pearl.

Occasionally, the paint code might also be found under the hood, usually on a sticker near the strut tower or on the radiator support. If you are having trouble locating it, your owner's manual will often have a diagram indicating the exact location.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2021 Subaru Forester, several reputable sources offer quality products that match factory specifications:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that you can find at most auto parts stores. They offer a good range of factory-matched colors in pens, bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans. Dupli-Color is a great option for small chips and scratches.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint specifically formulated to match your vehicle's exact color. You simply provide your paint code, and they will create a perfect match. They offer paint in pens, bottles, aerosol cans, and larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their quality is generally considered excellent.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat offers high-quality, custom-mixed paint based on your vehicle's specific paint code. They are known for their accurate color matching and offer a variety of application options.
• Dealership: Your local Subaru dealership can also provide genuine OEM touch-up paint. While sometimes a bit more expensive, it guarantees an exact match as it's the same paint used on the assembly line.

How to use touch-up paint

For the best results when using touch-up paint, follow these general steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then dry it completely. You can also use a wax and grease remover for optimal adhesion.
2. Apply primer (if necessary): If the chip has exposed bare metal, apply a thin layer of primer and allow it to dry according to the product instructions. This helps with adhesion and rust prevention.
3. Apply base coat: Apply thin, even coats of the base color. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually until it's level with the surrounding surface. For metallic and pearl colors, this step is crucial for proper flake/pigment alignment.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Again, apply thin coats and allow adequate drying time between each.
5. Cure and Polish: Allow the touch-up paint to fully cure (this can take several days depending on humidity and temperature). Once cured, you can gently polish the area to blend it with the surrounding paintwork.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like Crystal White Pearl (K1X) and Crimson Red Pearl (M1Y), have multiple layers of paint to achieve their unique depth and shimmer. This makes color matching slightly more challenging:

• Pearl coats: These paints contain mica or ceramic particles that reflect light, creating a pearlescent effect. When touching up, it's critical to apply thin, even layers to allow the pearl particles to orient correctly. Overspraying or applying too thickly can result in an uneven appearance.
• Tri-coats: Some pearl colors are actually "tri-coats," meaning they have a base color, a mid-coat (the pearl effect layer), and then a clear coat. If your chosen touch-up product for a pearl color is a tri-coat, ensure you follow the instructions for applying each specific layer. The mid-coat is what gives the paint its distinctive depth and color shift.
• Lighting is key: Always evaluate your touch-up work in various lighting conditions. Direct sunlight, shade, and artificial light can all reveal subtle differences in color and metallic/pearl flake orientation.
• Blend carefully: For larger repairs, blending the touch-up paint into the surrounding factory paint is crucial. This involves gradually feathering out the edges of the new paint to create a seamless transition.

If you're unsure about the exact paint code or need extensive repair, it's always best to consult with a professional body shop.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.