2018 Toyota Camry Paint Codes & Touch-Up Guide

Quick Reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2018 Toyota Camry, the paint code is most commonly located on a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a label or sticker, typically white or silver, affixed to the door frame (B-pillar). This label often contains various vehicle information, including tire pressure recommendations and the VIN. The paint code is usually a three-character alphanumeric code, sometimes preceded by "C/TR" (Color/Trim). For example, it might appear as "C/TR 1J9/FA20" where "1J9" is the paint code for Celestial Silver Metallic.

If you can't locate it there, you might also find it on a sticker under the hood, often on the firewall or radiator support. In some rare cases, the information may also be in your owner's manual or on a build sheet.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2018 Toyota Camry, several reputable sources can provide a good color match:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers touch-up pens, bottles, and spray cans. You can often find Dupli-Color products at auto parts stores like Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, and O'Reilly Auto Parts. They offer a good range of Toyota colors.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint to match your vehicle's exact factory color. They offer a variety of application options, including pens, bottles with brushes, aerosol cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their custom-mixing process often yields excellent color accuracy.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat provides custom-mixed paint solutions that are formulated to match your specific vehicle's factory color. They are particularly known for their accuracy with pearl and metallic finishes.
• Dealership: Your local Toyota dealership parts department can also supply genuine OEM touch-up paint. While sometimes a bit more expensive, this ensures you're getting the exact factory formulation.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a good touch-up repair requires a few simple steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the area around the chip or scratch with soap and water, then an automotive degreaser or rubbing alcohol. This removes dirt, wax, and oils that could interfere with adhesion.
2. Apply primer (if needed): For deeper chips that expose 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 chosen touch-up paint. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. Build up the paint gradually until it's level with the surrounding surface. For small chips, a toothpick or a fine artist's brush can provide better control than the applicator in the bottle.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply one or two thin layers of clear coat to protect the paint and restore the shine. This is crucial for durability and a good finish.
5. Cure: Allow the touch-up paint to cure fully. This can take several days, depending on the product and environmental conditions. Avoid washing or waxing the area during this time.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat finishes, like Blizzard Pearl (070) or Ruby Flare Pearl (3U5), can be more challenging to match perfectly due to their multi-layered composition. These paints contain reflective pearl flakes that give them their unique shimmer and depth. Here are some tips:

• Layering is key: Pearl paints are often applied in multiple stages: a base color, followed by a translucent pearl mid-coat, and then a clear coat. For touch-up, you'll typically receive a single bottle that attempts to replicate this effect, or a two-stage system (base and pearl). Apply thin, even coats to build up the color and pearlescent effect gradually.
• Test first: If possible, test the touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area or a test card to see how the color develops. This helps you get a feel for the application.
• Lighting matters: The appearance of pearl and metallic paints can vary significantly under different lighting conditions. Try to apply and inspect the touch-up under consistent lighting.
• Consider professional help: For larger or more noticeable repairs on pearl or tri-coat finishes, visiting a professional body shop might be the best option to ensure a seamless match.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.