2020 Toyota Highlander Paint Color Codes

Quick Reference

Where to find your paint code

For any 2020 Toyota Highlander, the paint code is located on the driver-side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a black sticker on the B-pillar. This sticker contains various information about your vehicle, including the date of manufacture, VIN, and tire pressure data. The paint code is a three-character code labeled as "C/TR" which stands for Color/Trim. The first part of this code (before the slash) is your exterior paint code. For example, if you see "1G3/LA10", your paint code is "1G3" for Magnetic Gray Metallic.

Best touch-up paint sources

Once you have identified your paint code, you can look for touch-up paint. Several reputable sources are available:

• Dupli-Color: A popular choice for DIY automotive painting, offering a wide range of colors in various applicators like pens, aerosol cans, and brush-in bottles. While they have a vast catalog, it's best to cross-reference their product number with your specific paint code.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in providing exact-match automotive paints. They can mix your specific color based on the paint code and offer it in different sizes, from small touch-up bottles to larger quantities for spray guns.
• Tcoat custom-mix: For a precise match, especially for pearl and metallic finishes, a custom-mixed paint from a supplier like Tcoat can be an excellent option. They can create a batch of paint based on your VIN to ensure the best possible match.
• Toyota Dealership: Your local Toyota dealer can provide you with factory-approved touch-up paint. This is often the safest bet for a perfect match, although it might be a bit more expensive.

How to use touch-up paint

Using touch-up paint correctly is crucial for a seamless repair. Here's a general guide:

1. Clean the area: The first step is to thoroughly clean the chip or scratch with soap and water, followed by a wax and grease remover.
2. Apply primer: For deeper scratches that have gone down to the bare metal, applying a thin layer of automotive primer is essential. This helps the new paint adhere properly and prevents rust.
3. Apply the base coat: Shake the touch-up paint well and apply a thin, even layer of the base color. For very small chips, a toothpick can be a more precise tool than the supplied brush. Allow it to dry completely before deciding if a second coat is necessary.
4. Apply clear coat: After the base coat is fully cured, apply a layer of clear coat. This protects the paint and gives it a glossy finish that matches the rest of the car.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl and tri-coat paints, like Blizzard Pearl (070) and Ruby Flare Pearl (3T3) on the Highlander, can be challenging to match perfectly. These paints have a multi-layer composition that gives them their depth and shimmer. For these colors, it is highly recommended to use a spray application rather than a pen or brush to blend the new paint with the old. A technique called "blending" or "fading" the new paint into the surrounding area is often necessary for an invisible repair. If you are not comfortable with this process, it might be best to consult a professional.

If you are ever uncertain about your paint code or the color-matching process, it's always a good idea to confirm your vehicle's details with a Toyota dealership or a trusted paint supplier using your VIN.

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