2016 Subaru Outback Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2016 Subaru Outback models, you'll find your paint code located on a sticker attached to the driver's side door jamb. This sticker typically contains various vehicle identification details, and the paint code will be clearly marked, often next to "COLOR" or "PAINT." It's usually a three-character code, which might be alphanumeric. If you have trouble locating it, check the owner's manual for specific instructions or consult a Subaru dealership.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to keeping your 2016 Subaru Outback looking pristine, touch-up paint is an essential tool for minor scratches and chips. Here are some of the most reliable sources:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand, Dupli-Color offers aerosol sprays and paint pens for many Subaru colors. You can often find their products at automotive parts stores and online retailers. Ensure you match your paint code precisely.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint, promising an exact match to your car's factory finish. They offer a variety of application options, including pens, brush bottles, and aerosol cans, all mixed to your specific paint code.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat is another excellent option for custom-mixed touch-up paints. They pride themselves on color accuracy and offer high-quality products for a seamless repair.
• Dealerships: Your local Subaru dealership can order touch-up paint directly from the manufacturer, guaranteeing an original equipment (OE) match. This is often the most expensive option but ensures the highest level of color accuracy.

How to use touch-up paint

Applying touch-up paint effectively can make a big difference in the appearance of your Outback. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the scratched or chipped area with soap and water, then dry it completely. You can also use a prep solvent to ensure all contaminants are removed.
2. Apply 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 manufacturer's instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Shake the touch-up paint bottle or pen well. Apply thin, even coats of the base color. Allow each coat to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is fully dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. This helps to blend the repair with the original paint.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Metallic and pearl paints, like the Crystal White Pearl or Lapis Blue Pearl offered on the 2016 Outback, can be more challenging to touch up due to their multi-layered composition. Here are some tips:

• Layering is key: Pearl and tri-coat paints achieve their depth and iridescence through multiple layers (e.g., a colored base coat, a pearl mid-coat, and a clear coat). When touching up, you'll need to replicate these layers as closely as possible. Often, touch-up kits for these colors will include separate bottles for each layer.
• Practice makes perfect: If you're new to touching up pearl or metallic paints, consider practicing on a spare piece of metal or an inconspicuous area of the car first to get a feel for the application.
• Blend carefully: With metallic and pearl finishes, the way the metallic flakes or pearl particles lay can affect the color appearance. Try to blend the new paint outward from the repair area to minimize harsh lines.
• Consult a professional: For larger or more complex repairs involving pearl or tri-coat finishes, you might consider having a professional body shop handle the repair to ensure a flawless match.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.