2021 Tesla Model 3 Paint Color Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

Finding your paint code on a 2021 Tesla Model 3 is usually a straightforward process. Tesla typically places the paint code information on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. This sticker, often referred to as the B-pillar sticker or VECI (Vehicle Emissions Control Information) label, contains various details about your vehicle, including the VIN, manufacturing date, and paint code.

• Driver's side door jamb: Open the driver's door and look at the pillar between the front and rear doors. The sticker should be visible there. The paint code is usually a three or four-character alphanumeric code, often accompanied by the color name.

If you have difficulty locating it, your owner's manual will also provide guidance. Alternatively, a Tesla service center can provide you with the exact paint code using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up paint on your 2021 Tesla Model 3, several reputable sources offer quality products to help you achieve a seamless repair.

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers a good range of factory-matched colors in aerosol cans and paint pens. You can often find Dupli-Color products at automotive parts stores.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint. They provide an extensive selection of colors for virtually all makes and models, and their products are known for their accuracy. They offer various applicators, from paint pens to spray cans and larger quantities for spray guns.
• Tcoat custom-mix: For those seeking the highest level of color accuracy, Tcoat custom-mix services can create a paint formula precisely matched to your car's specific paint code. This is particularly beneficial for complex multi-coat or pearl finishes.
• Dealership: Your local Tesla service center can also provide touch-up paint specifically formulated for your vehicle's color. While often a bit more expensive, it guarantees an exact match from the original manufacturer.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a good-looking touch-up requires a bit of patience and attention to detail. Here's a general guide:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then an automotive-grade degreaser or rubbing alcohol. Ensure it's completely dry before proceeding.
2. Apply primer (if needed): If the scratch has gone down to the bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Apply thin, even layers of your touch-up paint. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually until it's level with the surrounding area.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is fully dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Again, apply thin layers and allow adequate drying time between each.
5. Wet sand and polish (optional): For a truly professional finish, after the clear coat has fully cured (this can take several days to a week), you can lightly wet sand the area with fine-grit sandpaper (2000-grit or higher) and then polish it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding paint.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Tesla's Pearl White Multi-Coat and Red Multi-Coat colors are examples of multi-stage paint finishes that can be more challenging to match perfectly. These paints consist of multiple layers, including a colored base coat, a pearl or mica mid-coat, and a clear coat. The mid-coat is what gives these colors their unique depth and shimmer.

• Layering is key: When touching up pearl or tri-coat paints, it's crucial to replicate the original layering process. This means applying very thin, even layers for each stage (base, mid, clear) and allowing sufficient drying time in between. Applying too much of any one layer can drastically alter the final appearance.
• Practice makes perfect: If you're new to touching up multi-coat paints, consider practicing on an inconspicuous area or a scrap piece of metal to get a feel for the application.
• Choose specialized products: Opt for touch-up paint explicitly formulated for multi-coat or pearl finishes, as these will often include separate bottles for each stage of the paint process.
• Professional help: For larger chips or scratches on pearl or tri-coat finishes, or if you're aiming for a factory-perfect repair, it's often best to consult a professional body shop. They have the expertise and equipment to blend these complex colors effectively.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.