2016 Toyota Corolla Touch-Up & Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2016 Toyota Corolla models, you'll find your paint code on the sticker located on the driver's side door jamb (where the door latches when closed). This sticker, often white or silver, contains various vehicle information, including a section for "C/TR" or "COLOR TRIM". The paint code is typically a three-digit alphanumeric code. For example, "3P0" for Absolutely Red or "040" for Super White.

If you have trouble locating it there, occasionally it might be found under the hood near the VIN number, but the door jamb is the primary location for the 2016 Corolla.

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2016 Toyota Corolla, several reliable options are available:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers touch-up paint pens, bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans. You can often find Dupli-Color products at automotive parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and Pep Boys.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This online retailer specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paint that is matched to your specific vehicle's paint code. They offer a comprehensive range of products, including pens, bottles, spray cans, and even larger quantities for more extensive repairs. Their custom-matched paints are often praised for their accuracy.
• Tcoat custom-mix: Similar to AutomotiveTouchup, Tcoat provides custom-mixed paint solutions that are color-matched to your Toyota's specifications. They are another excellent online option for precise color matching, especially for more complex colors.
• Dealership: Your local Toyota dealership can also provide touch-up paint specifically designed for your 2016 Corolla. While sometimes a bit more expensive, you can be assured of an exact factory match.

How to use touch-up paint

Using touch-up paint effectively involves a few key steps to ensure a smooth, lasting repair:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly wash and degrease the area to be touched up. Use automotive soap and a wax and grease remover to ensure no contaminants interfere with adhesion.
2. Apply primer (if needed): For deeper scratches or 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: Shake the touch-up paint well. Apply thin, even coats of the base color. Allow each coat to dry for the recommended time before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is fully dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Clear coat is essential for durability and matching the original sheen of your car's paint.
5. Wet sand and polish (optional): For a truly seamless repair, you can gently wet sand the touched-up area with very fine-grit sandpaper (2000-3000 grit) after the clear coat has fully cured. Follow up with a polishing compound to restore the shine.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

If your 2016 Toyota Corolla has a pearl or tri-coat paint finish (like Blizzard Pearl 070), color matching can be a bit more challenging due to the multi-layered nature of these paints. Pearl paints contain special pigments that reflect light, creating a shimmering effect. Tri-coats involve an additional translucent mid-coat to achieve their depth and unique appearance.

• Layering is crucial: For pearl and tri-coat finishes, it's even more important to apply thin, even layers. The number of layers of the pearl or mid-coat will directly affect the final color and appearance.
• Test on a discrete area: Before applying to the main repair, if possible, test your touch-up paint on an inconspicuous area or a test card to confirm the color match, especially for pearl finishes.
• Take your time: Don't rush the process. Allow adequate drying time between each coat, and apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick one.
• Consider professional help: For larger or more prominent repairs on pearl or tri-coat finishes, or if you're uncomfortable with the DIY process, a professional body shop can achieve the best results due to their specialized equipment and expertise.

Never invent codes — if uncertain on a specific color, confirm via VIN at your dealer or a paint supplier.

Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.