2021 Tesla Model X Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2021 Tesla Model X, the paint code is typically located on a sticker in the door jamb of the driver's side door. Opening the driver's door will reveal a label (often black or white) with various vehicle information. Look for a section labeled "PAINT" or "EXT PNT." The code will be a short alphanumeric sequence (e.g., "PMNG" for Midnight Silver Metallic). It's a good idea to cross-reference this code with your original purchase documents or a Tesla service center if you have any doubts, especially for multi-coat colors.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to keeping your 2021 Tesla Model X looking pristine, quality touch-up paint is essential. Here are some of the top recommendations:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand, Dupli-Color offers a range of touch-up paints that can often be found at automotive parts stores. While they might not carry every specific Tesla shade, they are a good starting point for common colors. Ensure you match the color name and code carefully.
• AutomotiveTouchup: For a more precise match, AutomotiveTouchup specializes in custom-mixed paints based on your vehicle's exact paint code. They offer various product sizes, from small pens to aerosol cans, and often include primer and clear coat options, which are crucial for a professional finish.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Tcoat is another excellent option for custom-formulated touch-up paint. They pride themselves on color accuracy and provide all the necessary components for a durable repair.
• Tesla Service Center/Dealership: The most authoritative source for touch-up paint is your local Tesla service center. They will have access to the exact factory formulation for your Model X, ensuring the best possible match, especially for multi-coat and pearl finishes.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a seamless repair with touch-up paint requires a careful approach:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chip or scratch with rubbing alcohol to remove any wax, grease, or dirt. This ensures proper adhesion.
2. Apply primer (if necessary): For deep scratches or chips that go down to the bare metal or plastic, a thin layer of primer is essential. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Apply the color coat in thin, even layers. For metallic and pearl paints, multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat. Allow each coat to dry to the touch before applying the next. For multi-coat colors, you may have an additional mid-coat layer to apply.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base color is fully dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. This step is crucial for durability and matching the surrounding paint's sheen.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Tesla's multi-coat and pearl finishes, such as Pearl White Multi-Coat and Red Multi-Coat, are particularly complex to repair due to their layered composition. These paints achieve their depth and unique shimmer through multiple layers of paint, including a colored base coat, a translucent pearl or effect coat, and a final clear coat. When touching up these colors:

• Layering is key: Do not expect a perfect match with a single coat. You will need to apply the various layers (base, pearl/mid-coat, clear) in the correct sequence and with appropriate drying times between each.
• Test first: If possible, test the touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area or a test card to understand how the layers build up and affect the final color. This is especially important for the pearl or mid-coat, as its thickness significantly impacts the perceived color and depth.
• Feathering: For a smoother transition, try to "feather" the edges of your touch-up paint, especially the clear coat, into the surrounding factory paint.
• Patience: These specialized finishes demand patience. Rushing the process will likely lead to an unsatisfactory result. Allow ample drying time for each layer.

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