2017 Tesla Model S Paint Color Codes & Touch-Up Guide

Maintaining the sleek, futuristic look of your 2017 Tesla Model S requires knowing exactly what color paint is coating its aluminum body panels. Whether you are dealing with a minor parking lot scratch, a rock chip from the highway, or planning some aftermarket color-matched accessories, having the exact factory paint code is the only way to ensure a seamless repair.

Below is your comprehensive guide to the 2017 Tesla Model S paint codes, where to locate your specific code, and how to effectively apply touch-up paint.

Quick reference: 2017 Tesla Model S Paint Codes

For the 2017 model year, Tesla offered a streamlined but highly attractive color palette. Below is the complete list of factory colors, their specific four-letter paint codes, and the paint finish type.

Color Name	Paint Code	Type (Solid / Metallic / Pearl)
Solid Black	PBSB	Solid
Obsidian Black Metallic	PMBL	Metallic
Deep Blue Metallic	PPSB	Metallic
Silver Metallic	PMSS	Metallic
Midnight Silver Metallic	PMNG	Metallic
Pearl White Multi-Coat	PPSW	Pearl / Tri-Coat
Red Multi-Coat	PPMR	Pearl / Tri-Coat

Note: If you are uncertain about your specific color variant (such as Solid Black vs. Obsidian Black Metallic), always confirm via your vehicle's VIN at a Tesla Service Center or through a certified paint supplier.

Where to find your paint code

Finding the paint code on a 2017 Tesla Model S is relatively straightforward. Tesla places the Vehicle Certification Label (which includes the paint code) in a standard location.

1. Open the driver’s side door.
2. Look at the B-pillar (the vertical post latching the front door) and the lower door jamb.
3. Locate the black or silver manufacturer sticker that contains the VIN, tire pressure data, and vehicle weight ratings.
4. Scan the label for the letters PNT or PAINT.
5. Next to this, you will see a four-letter code starting with "P" (e.g., PPSW). This is your exact factory paint code.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes time to buy your paint, you have a few excellent options depending on the severity of the damage and your budget:

• Tesla Service Centers: You can purchase official touch-up paint pen kits directly from Tesla. These kits usually come with a dual-tip setup (paint and clear coat) and are guaranteed to match the factory mix.
• AutomotiveTouchup: One of the industry leaders for custom-mixed automotive paint. They offer exact matches for Tesla codes in pens, small bottles with brushes, and aerosol spray cans for larger bumper scrapes.
• Dupli-Color: A highly accessible option found in most local auto parts stores. While they may have limited stock of Tesla-specific colors compared to traditional legacy automakers, their Scratch Fix All-in-1 tool is excellent for minor chips.
• Tcoat custom-mix: A great online resource for getting custom-mixed, high-quality urethane paint designed to match your Tesla’s specific factory code perfectly.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a professional-looking repair requires patience and proper technique. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Clean: Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water, then wipe down the scratch or chip with rubbing alcohol or a specialized wax and grease remover. The surface must be completely free of dirt and oils.
2. Primer (If necessary): If the scratch goes down to the bare aluminum or plastic, apply a very light coat of automotive primer. Let it dry completely.
3. Base Coat: Shake the touch-up paint vigorously. Apply the color in thin, light dabs or strokes. Do not glob the paint on. Allow 15 to 20 minutes of drying time between coats until the color covers the primer and sits just slightly below the original clear coat level.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is fully dry (wait at least an hour), apply the clear coat to seal the repair and provide UV protection and gloss. Let it cure completely for several days before buffing or waxing.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

If your 2017 Model S is painted in Pearl White Multi-Coat (PPSW) or Red Multi-Coat (PPMR), you are dealing with a "tri-coat" paint system. This means the factory applied a solid base color, followed by a translucent pearl mid-coat, and finally a clear coat.

Matching these finishes is notoriously tricky. When buying touch-up paint for these colors, you will usually receive two separate bottles of color (Step 1 Base and Step 2 Pearl) plus a clear coat.

• Always practice on a piece of scrap metal or heavy cardboard first.
• The final color changes based on how many layers of the translucent pearl mid-coat you apply. Too few, and the paint looks flat; too many, and it looks too dark or overly sparkly.
• Apply the mid-coat very sparingly until it matches the surrounding panels under natural sunlight.

If the damage to your tri-coat paint is larger than a pencil eraser, DIY touch-ups will likely remain visible. For larger scrapes, dents, or panel blending, it is always best to seek professional help. Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.