2022 Subaru Outback Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most Subaru Outback models, including the 2022 Outback, your paint code can typically be found on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look at the B-pillar (the vertical support between the front and rear doors). The sticker will often contain a barcode and various vehicle information, and the paint code will be clearly labeled, usually as "COLOR" or "PAINT" followed by a three-character alphanumeric code. If you have trouble locating it, refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions for your vehicle.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2022 Subaru Outback, several reputable sources offer quality paint that matches your factory finish:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers touch-up paint in pens, bottles, and spray cans. They are a good option for small chips and scratches and can be found at most automotive retailers.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed automotive paint, ensuring an accurate match to your Subaru's original factory color. They offer paint in various sizes, from small bottles to aerosol cans and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their quality and color accuracy are highly regarded.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Tcoat is another excellent option for custom-mixed touch-up paint, often lauded for its precision in matching even complex pearl and metallic finishes. They can create a perfect match based on your paint code.
• Subaru Dealership: Your local Subaru dealership can also provide genuine OEM touch-up paint specifically formulated for your vehicle, guaranteeing the best possible color match and quality.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a seamless repair with touch-up paint requires a few simple steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then dry it completely. You may 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 automotive primer and allow it to dry according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Shake the touch-up paint bottle/pen well. Apply thin, even coats of the base color, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually to fill the chip or scratch, ensuring it's level with the surrounding paintwork.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and restore the original gloss. Again, apply in thin, even layers and allow adequate drying time between coats.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like Crystal White Pearl or Cosmic Blue Pearl, can be more challenging to match perfectly due to their multi-layered composition. These paints achieve their depth and shimmer through layers of color, metallic flakes, and translucent pearl. Here are some tips:

• Shake well: Before applying, vigorously shake your pearl or tri-coat touch-up paint to ensure the metallic and pearl particles are evenly distributed.
• Thin coats are crucial: Apply very thin, even coats. Building up the color slowly will help you achieve a better blend with the surrounding paint.
• Feathering: When applying the final coats, try "feathering" the edges of your repair by lightly extending the paint beyond the immediate repair area. This can help to visually blend the new paint with the old.
• Consider professional help: For larger or more noticeable damage on pearl or tri-coat finishes, it might be best to consult a professional body shop. They have the expertise and equipment to achieve an invisible repair.

Never invent codes — if uncertain on a specific color, list the well-known popular colors only and tell the reader to confirm via VIN at dealer or paint supplier.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.