2021 Volvo VNL Paint Codes

Quick reference

Where to find your paint code

For most 2021 Volvo VNL trucks, your paint code will be located on a sticker on the driver's side door jamb. Open the driver's door and look for a label typically found on the B-pillar (the vertical support between the front and rear doors). This label will contain various vehicle information, including a section for "Paint Code" or "Color Code." It's usually a short alphanumeric code, often just a few digits long. In some cases, especially on newer models or if the original sticker is missing, you might find the paint code under the hood or in your owner's manual. If you're having trouble locating it, your local Volvo dealer parts department can definitively provide the correct code using your VIN.

Best touch-up paint sources

When you need to fix a small scratch or chip on your Volvo VNL, getting the right touch-up paint is crucial for a seamless repair. Here are some of the best sources:

• Dupli-Color: A widely available brand that offers a good range of colors, often found at automotive parts stores. While they might not have an exact match for every Volvo commercial truck color, they offer many common shades.
• AutomotiveTouchup: This company specializes in custom-mixed touch-up paints designed to precisely match your vehicle's factory color code. They are an excellent option for hard-to-find colors and offer various application types, including paint pens, brush bottles, and aerosol cans.
• Tcoat Custom-Mix: For professional-grade results and perfect color accuracy, Tcoat offers custom-mixed paint solutions. You can provide them with your paint code, and they will formulate a match. This is particularly useful for more complex finishes or if you're tackling a larger repair.
• Dealership: Your local Volvo dealership parts department can supply OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) touch-up paint. While sometimes more expensive, this ensures the highest level of color accuracy and quality, as it's the same paint used on the assembly line.

How to use touch-up paint

Applying touch-up paint correctly can make a big difference in the final appearance of your repair. Follow these general steps:

1. Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the chipped or scratched area with soap and water, then wipe it with an alcohol prep pad to remove any wax or grease. Allow it to dry completely.
2. Apply primer (if needed): For deeper scratches that expose bare metal or plastic, apply a thin layer of primer. Allow it to dry fully according to the product instructions.
3. Apply base coat: Apply thin, even coats of your color-matched touch-up paint. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next. Build up the color gradually until it matches the surrounding paint. Avoid applying too much paint at once, as this can lead to an uneven finish.
4. Apply clear coat: Once the base coat is dry, apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. Clear coat helps blend the repair with the original paintwork. Again, apply in thin, even layers.
5. Cure and Polish: Allow the touch-up paint to cure completely (this can take several days). Once cured, you can gently polish the area to blend the repair further and achieve a smooth finish.

Color matching tips for pearls and tri-coats

While many Volvo VNL colors are solid, some may have metallic or pearl effects. These can be more challenging to match perfectly due to their multi-layer composition. If your 2021 Volvo VNL has a metallic or pearl finish, here are some tips:

• Metallic paints: These contain tiny metallic flakes that reflect light, giving the paint a shimmering effect. When using touch-up paint, apply it in thin, even layers and try to mimic the direction of the original metallic flakes to avoid a striped appearance.
• Pearl/Tri-coat paints: These finishes involve multiple layers of paint to achieve a deep, iridescent look. They typically consist of a base color, a mid-coat containing pearl pigments, and a clear coat. For these complex finishes, precise application is paramount. Consider using professional-grade touch-up kits specifically designed for tri-coat paints, or consult with a reputable automotive paint supplier or a body shop that specializes in these finishes. A test patch on an inconspicuous area or a scrap piece of metal is highly recommended before applying it to the truck.

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