2019 Tesla Model S Paint Codes & Touch-Up Guide

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2019 Tesla Model S, the paint code is typically located on a sticker positioned on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look at the B-pillar (the post between the front and rear doors) or the edge of the door itself. The sticker will usually contain a barcode and various vehicle information, including a section for "Paint" or "Color" where you'll find the code. It's important to always verify your paint code with your VIN at a Tesla service center or a reputable paint supplier to ensure accuracy, especially for multi-coat finishes.

Best touch-up paint sources

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option that offers a good color match for many factory finishes. You can often find Dupli-Color products at automotive parts stores.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paints and is known for its precise color matching. They can mix paint specifically to your Tesla's paint code.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Tcoat offers high-quality, custom-mixed touch-up paints that often provide excellent results, particularly for more complex finishes like multi-coats.
• Tesla Service Center/Dealership: For the most accurate match and official Tesla-approved paint, your local Tesla service center or dealership is a reliable source. They can often provide touch-up paint pens or kits directly from the manufacturer.

How to use touch-up paint

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the damaged area with soap and water, then an automotive degreaser to remove any wax, grease, or contaminants.
2. Primer (if needed): If the scratch exposes bare metal or plastic, apply a thin coat of automotive primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply thin, even coats of the base color. Allow each coat to dry to the touch before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until the scratch is no longer visible.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is fully dry, apply several thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and restore the gloss. This is crucial for durability and a seamless finish.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Tesla's multi-coat colors, like Red Multi-Coat and Pearl White Multi-Coat, are made up of multiple layers, including a colored base coat, a mid-coat with pearl or metallic flakes, and a clear coat. This multi-layered process makes color matching more challenging than a solid color.

• Layering is Key: When using touch-up paint for multi-coat finishes, it's essential to apply the different layers (base, mid-coat, clear) in thin, even coats, just as the factory applied them. Rushing the process or applying too much paint at once can result in a noticeable repair.
• Test Before Applying: Always test your touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area first, or on a spare piece of metal, to ensure the color match is satisfactory before applying it to the visible damage.
• Professional Help: For larger scratches or chips, or if you're uncomfortable tackling multi-coat repairs yourself, consider consulting a professional body shop. They have specialized equipment and expertise to achieve a flawless match.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.