2018 Toyota RAV4 Paint Codes & Touch-Up Guide

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For your 2018 Toyota RAV4, the paint code is most commonly located on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a sticker or label on the door frame itself, or on the B-pillar (the structural post between the front and rear doors). This label typically contains various vehicle information, including your VIN, tire pressure recommendations, and often, a "C/TR" designation which stands for Color/Trim. The paint code will be a three-digit alphanumeric code, sometimes followed by a hyphen and another code (which typically refers to the interior trim).

If you have trouble locating it, refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and diagrams. Alternatively, a Toyota dealership parts department can provide your exact paint code by looking up your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).

Best touch-up paint sources

When it comes to touching up minor scratches or chips on your 2018 Toyota RAV4, several reputable sources offer quality products:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available option at most auto parts stores. They offer a good range of factory-matched colors in pens, bottles with brushes, and aerosol cans.
• AutomotiveTouchup: Known for their extensive color library and precise color matching. They provide paints in various formats, including pens, bottles, spray cans, and larger quantities for more significant repairs. They custom-mix paint based on your specific paint code.
• Tcoat custom-mix: An excellent choice for hard-to-match colors or those seeking professional-grade results. Tcoat specializes in custom-mixed paint that closely replicates the original factory finish.
• Your local Toyota dealer: For guaranteed accuracy, your dealership can supply genuine Toyota touch-up paint specifically formulated for your vehicle's color.

How to use touch-up paint

Applying touch-up paint effectively requires a few steps for the best results:

1. Clean: Thoroughly clean the affected area with soap and water, then use a wax and grease remover to ensure a clean, contaminant-free surface.
2. Prime (if necessary): For deep scratches that expose bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry completely according to the product instructions.
3. Base Coat: Apply the color coat in thin, even layers. Build up the color gradually, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. For metallic or pearl colors, it's crucial to apply thin coats to prevent patchy or uneven finishes.
4. Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a clear coat. This protects the paint, provides shine, and helps it blend with the surrounding finish. Again, apply in thin layers.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Pearl (like Blizzard Pearl 070) and tri-coat paints are multi-stage finishes that can be more challenging to match perfectly due to their unique depth and reflectivity. They typically involve a base color, a mid-coat with pearl or metallic flakes, and a clear coat. When touching up these colors:

• Use the correct product: Ensure your touch-up paint kit specifically states it's for pearl or tri-coat finishes and includes all the necessary components (base, mid-coat, clear).
• Layer carefully: The mid-coat is what gives pearl colors their distinctive shimmer. Apply it in very thin, even layers to avoid a spotty appearance. The number of layers can affect the final shade.
• Blend: For larger areas, consider carefully blending the touch-up paint into the surrounding factory paint to minimize visible edges.
• Professional help: For significant repairs on pearl or tri-coat finishes, consulting a professional body shop is often the best course of action to achieve an invisible repair.

Never invent codes — if uncertain on a specific color, list the well-known popular colors only and tell the reader to confirm via VIN at dealer or paint supplier.

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