2019 Tesla Model 3 Paint Codes

A complete guide to your 2019 Model 3's factory paint colors, where to find your code, and how to touch up rock chips and scratches.

Tesla's minimalist design is accentuated by a curated palette of striking colors. For the 2019 Model 3, five distinct options were offered, ranging from a simple solid black to complex multi-coat pearls. Whether you're dealing with a minor rock chip or planning a more significant repair, identifying the correct paint code is the first and most critical step to a perfect finish. This guide covers every factory color for the 2019 Model 3 and provides tips for a successful touch-up.

Quick Reference

Where to Find Your Paint Code

Tesla makes it easy to find your paint code. Unlike other manufacturers that may hide it in various locations, Tesla places the code in a consistent, easy-to-access spot.

Open the driver's side door and look at the B-pillar (the post between the front and rear doors). You will find the Vehicle Certification Label, a black sticker that contains important information, including the month and year of manufacture, GVWR, and tire pressure data.

On this sticker, in the bottom left corner, you will see "PNT" followed by a four-letter code. That is your vehicle's specific paint code. For example, a Deep Blue Metallic Model 3 will show PMBL. Always refer to this sticker to confirm your color before ordering paint, as names can be similar and codes can change between model years.

Best Touch-Up Paint Sources

Once you have your code, you have several excellent options for purchasing touch-up paint.

• Tesla Official Touch-Up Paint: Tesla sells its own touch-up paint kits directly from its online store or service centers. These are guaranteed to be an exact factory match and are the recommended source for most owners. The kits typically include a cleaning solution and a paint applicator.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This is a highly reputable online supplier that offers a wide range of products, including paint pens, 1/2 oz. brush-in bottles, and aerosol spray cans. They can mix your 2019 Model 3's color based on the factory code and offer primers, clear coats, and all other necessary supplies.
• Dupli-Color: While Dupli-Color offers a huge range of colors for many domestic and import brands, they may have limited off-the-shelf availability for newer Tesla models. It's worth checking their catalog, but you may have more luck with a custom-mix provider.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: For larger repairs, a local automotive paint supplier can mix a batch of your color in a professional-grade formula (e.g., urethane) that can be used in a spray gun. This is the best option for panel repairs.

How to Use Touch-Up Paint

A patient application is key to a nearly invisible repair. Follow these steps for the best results on small rock chips and light scratches.

1. Clean the Area: Thoroughly wash the chip with soap and water, then use a wax and grease remover or isopropyl alcohol on a microfiber towel to ensure the surface is free of any contaminants.
2. Apply Primer (if needed): If the chip has gone down to bare metal, apply a very thin layer of automotive primer using a fine-tipped brush. This prevents rust and helps the paint adhere. Let it dry completely.
3. Build the Base Color: Shake the touch-up paint bottle thoroughly. Apply very thin, light coats of your base color. Do not try to fill the chip in one go. Allow each layer to dry for at least 30 minutes. Build up the color until it is level with the surrounding paint.
4. Apply Clear Coat: The clear coat protects the color and provides the glossy finish. Apply a single, thin layer of clear coat over the base color, slightly extending onto the surrounding area.

Color Matching Tips for Pearls and Tri-Coats

Colors like Pearl White Multi-Coat (PPSW) and Red Multi-Coat (PPMR) are "tri-coat" finishes. This means they consist of a solid base color, a translucent pearlescent mid-coat, and a final clear coat. This complexity makes them notoriously difficult to match perfectly with a simple touch-up pen.

• Expect a Close, Not Perfect, Match: For small chips, the touch-up will be a huge improvement, but the depth and iridescence of the pearl layer are hard to replicate with a brush.
• Use a Test Card: Before applying to your car, practice on a piece of paper or a test card to see how the color builds and dries.
• Blending is Key: For anything larger than a small rock chip, blending the new paint into the existing paint is a job best left to professionals. A body shop will often need to spray and blend the color across an entire panel to achieve a seamless repair.

If your repair is extensive or you want a flawless finish on a tri-coat color, your best bet is to consult a professional.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.