2022 Toyota RAV4 Paint Color Codes & Touch-Up Guide

Finding the exact paint color match for your 2022 Toyota RAV4 is the critical first step in repairing rock chips, door dings, or bumper scratches. With a variety of striking metallic and pearl finishes offered this model year, applying the correct paint code is essential for a seamless repair. Below is the comprehensive guide to 2022 Toyota RAV4 paint color codes, touch-up tips, and resources for achieving professional-looking results.

Quick reference

Here are the factory paint colors offered for the 2022 Toyota RAV4. Check your exact code before purchasing paint, as Toyota frequently offers two-tone options (such as models with an Ice Edge or Midnight Black Metallic roof).

Note: If your vehicle features a two-tone exterior, the paint sticker will list a specific combination code. Always verify the primary body code for lower panels.

Where to find your paint code

Toyota makes it relatively easy to locate your vehicle's paint code. For the 2022 RAV4, the factory paint code is located on the Vehicle Identification and Certification Label.

1. Open the driver's side front door.
2. Look at the lower B-pillar (the door jamb area where the door latches).
3. Find the black-and-white or black-and-yellow certification sticker.
4. Scan the bottom of the sticker for the letters "C/TR" (which stands for Color/Trim).
5. The three-character alphanumeric code immediately following the "C/" is your paint code (e.g., C/TR: 1G3/FA20 means your paint is Magnetic Gray Metallic).

If the sticker is damaged or missing, you can also call your local Toyota dealership parts department. Provide them with your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and they can look up your exact factory paint code.

Best touch-up paint sources

Once you have your paint code, you have several reliable options for purchasing touch-up paint:

• Your Local Toyota Dealership: For absolute peace of mind, OEM paint pens or small brush bottles from the dealer are excellent. They are specifically formulated to match your RAV4’s factory batch.
• AutomotiveTouchup: Highly recommended for larger repairs. They offer perfectly mixed aerosol spray cans, half-ounce bottles, and paint pens. Their basecoats are known for excellent color accuracy.
• Dupli-Color: A readily available option at most auto parts stores (like AutoZone or O'Reilly). They offer the popular "Perfect Match" dual-tip pens (brush and fine-point) and aerosol cans.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: Great for custom-mixed batches that require exact precision, especially if your car has experienced minor UV fading and you need a specialized blend.

How to use touch-up paint

Achieving a durable and invisible repair requires patience and proper technique. Follow these steps:

1. Clean the area: Wash the damaged area with soap and water. Follow up with a wax and grease remover or rubbing alcohol to ensure no contaminants prevent the paint from adhering.
2. Apply primer (if needed): If the scratch goes all the way down to bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of automotive primer. Let it dry completely.
3. Apply the base coat: Shake your touch-up paint thoroughly. Apply the color in very light, thin layers. Allow 15–20 minutes of drying time between each coat. Build the paint up until it is just below the surface of the surrounding original paint.
4. Apply clear coat: Wait at least 30 minutes after your final base coat, then apply the clear coat. The clear coat protects the paint and provides the glossy finish that matches the rest of your vehicle. Let it cure completely (usually 24–48 hours) before washing.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

Colors like Wind Chill Pearl (089) and Ruby Flare Pearl (3T3) are considered tri-coats. This means the factory paint consists of a base color coat, a translucent pearl mid-coat, and a final clear coat.

• Test first: Always test your touch-up paint on a piece of cardboard or scrap metal. Tri-coats can be tricky because the final shade depends on how many layers of the pearl mid-coat you apply.
• Layer carefully: Apply the base color until the scratch is hidden. Then, apply the pearl mid-coat one very thin layer at a time, checking the match in natural sunlight.
• Blend the edges: For larger spray repairs, blending the new paint into the old paint is necessary to trick the eye.
• Expect slight variations: Pearl paints reflect light differently depending on the angle. A 100% invisible touch-up on a tri-coat is very difficult with a brush, so focus on protecting the metal and minimizing the visual impact.

If your scratches are too deep, or you are uncomfortable tackling a tri-coat repair yourself, don't risk ruining your vehicle's finish. Find a trusted body shop on Repairius.