Ever noticed a scratch on your Dodge and wondered how to fix it perfectly? Finding the right paint match isn’t just about eyeballing it at the auto store. You need your Dodge paint code – that magical three-character combination that unlocks the exact factory color of your vehicle. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about locating, understanding, and using Dodge paint codes for flawless repairs.
What Are Dodge Paint Codes?
Dodge paint codes are unique three-character identifiers that specify the exact color of your vehicle as it left the factory. These codes aren’t random – they’re carefully designed to help you get a perfect match when touching up scratches or repainting panels.
Most Dodge paint codes follow a simple format:
- They typically begin with P, Q, or B
- Followed by two alphanumeric characters
- For example: PW7 (Bright White Clearcoat) or PR4 (Flame Red Clearcoat)
The beauty of these codes is their precision. Two red Dodges might look identical to the naked eye, but they could have different paint codes representing subtle variations that become obvious when placed side by side.
Where to Find Your Dodge Paint Code
The Primary Location: Driver’s Door Jamb
For most Dodge vehicles manufactured after 2007, the simplest place to check is the driver’s side door jamb. Here’s how to find it:
- Open your driver’s side door
- Look for a white or silver sticker (Safety Certification Label)
- Scan for “PNT:” followed by a three-character code
- That’s it! You’ve found your paint code
This label typically contains other information too, like your VIN and tire specifications, but the paint code is what we’re after.
Model-Specific Alternative Locations
Can’t find the code on your door jamb? Don’t worry. Depending on your Dodge model and year, the paint code might be hiding elsewhere:
| Model | Where to Look |
|---|---|
| Challenger | Driver’s door jamb |
| Charger | Passenger side of firewall |
| Ram Truck | Radiator support, behind battery, or floor pan |
| Durango | Front passenger wheel well, door jamb, or passenger floor pan |
| Dakota | Floor behind passenger seat or cab back panel |
| Neon | Strut towers, door jamb, or passenger side firewall |
| Viper | Inside driver’s door jamb |
If you drive a classic Dodge or a less common model, check the comprehensive location chart for specific details.
Decoding Dodge Paint Code Formats
Modern Three-Character Codes
Most current Dodge vehicles use a three-character format that tells you everything about the paint:
- First character (usually P, Q, or B): Indicates base color type
- Second and third characters: Specify exact shade and clearcoat type
For example, in the code PX8 (Black Clearcoat), “P” indicates the paint type, while “X8” specifies the exact black shade and finish.
Older Format Variations
If you drive a vintage Dodge, you might encounter different formats:
- Two-digit codes (like 8E)
- BS/GBS format (only the BS part matters for color matching)
- Year code prefixes (E = 1969, F = 1970) followed by color identifiers
These older systems can be a bit trickier to interpret, but they work on the same principle of providing an exact color specification.
Popular Dodge Paint Colors and Their Codes
Whether you’re driving a sleek Charger or a rugged Ram, here’s a handy reference of common Dodge colors and their corresponding paint codes:
| Color Name | Paint Code | Commonly Found On |
|---|---|---|
| Bright White Clearcoat | PW7 | Most models (very popular) |
| Black Clearcoat | PX8 | All models |
| Flame Red Clearcoat | PR4 | Challenger, Charger, Ram |
| Brilliant Black Crystal Pearlcoat | PXR | Newer models |
| Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat | PS2 | Most models |
| Granite Crystal Metallic | PAU | Newer models |
| Billet Silver Metallic | PSC | Charger, Challenger |
| Octane Red Pearl | PRV | Challenger, Charger |
| Go Mango | PVO | Challenger, Charger |
| TorRed | PR3 | Challenger, Charger |
| Plum Crazy Purple | FC7 | Special editions |
| Sublime Lime Green | FJ5 | Limited editions |
For a more exhaustive list, you can check resources like the Mopar touch-up paint catalog.
High-Impact and Special Edition Colors
Dodge has a rich history of offering bold, eye-catching colors, especially on performance models like the Challenger and Charger. These “High Impact” colors have gained cult status among enthusiasts:
- Plum Crazy Purple (FC7)
- HEMI Orange (EV2)
- Sublime Lime Green (FJ5)
- Sassy Grass Green (FJ6)
- Detonator Yellow (PYB)
- Mango Tango Pearl (PVG)
According to Dodge Garage, these special colors often appear for limited production runs, making them particularly important to match correctly if your vehicle wears one of these distinctive shades.
How to Use Your Dodge Paint Code for Repairs
Once you’ve located your paint code, here’s how to put it to good use:
1. Ordering Touch-Up Paint
With your paint code in hand, you can order exact-match paint in several forms:
- Touch-up pens (for tiny chips and scratches)
- Brush-in bottles (for small areas)
- Spray cans (for larger repairs)
- Professional mixing formulas (for body shop repaints)
Many suppliers like Automotive Touch Up let you enter your paint code directly to find the right product.
2. DIY Touch-Up Application Tips
For the best results when applying touch-up paint:
- Clean the damaged area thoroughly
- Sand lightly if necessary
- Apply primer on bare metal (if exposed)
- Apply color in thin, multiple coats
- Finish with clearcoat for protection
- Buff gently after fully cured
This step-by-step demonstration shows the process in action.
3. Working with Body Shops
When taking your vehicle to a professional:
- Provide the paint code directly (don’t just say “it’s red”)
- Ask if they’ll blend into adjacent panels for invisible repairs
- Request OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) paint for the best match
- Understand that metallic and pearl finishes are trickier to match perfectly
Common Dodge Paint Issues and Solutions
Color Fading
Dodge vehicles, particularly those with red, blue, or darker colors, can experience fading over time due to UV exposure. If you’re touching up a faded vehicle:
- Consider having the body shop blend the repair into surrounding areas
- For older vehicles, some paint suppliers offer “weathered” formula options
- Park in shade or garage when possible to prevent further fading
Clearcoat Failure
Some Dodge models from the early 2000s experienced clearcoat issues, appearing as peeling or cloudy finish. When addressing this:
- Simple touch-up won’t fix clearcoat failure
- The affected panel usually needs complete repainting
- All the old clearcoat must be removed before applying new coats
Matching Metallic and Pearl Finishes
Dodge’s metallic and pearl finishes (like Brilliant Black Crystal or Deep Water Blue) contain special effects particles that can be challenging to match. For these:
- Spray application works better than brush-on for metallic/pearl colors
- Application technique affects how the metallic particles lay down
- Consider professional spraying for best results with these complex finishes
Tips for Perfect Color Matching
Test in an Inconspicuous Area
Before applying touch-up paint to a visible scratch:
- Find a hidden spot (inside door edge, under bumper)
- Apply a small amount of your touch-up paint
- Let it dry completely
- Compare to surrounding factory paint
- Proceed only if the match looks good
Lighting Matters
Colors look different under various lighting conditions. When checking your color match:
- Natural daylight shows the truest color
- Garage fluorescent lights can make colors appear different
- Check the match in the same lighting conditions where the car is typically seen
Consider Paint Age and Condition
Even with the correct paint code, your results might vary if:
- Your vehicle’s paint has significantly faded over years
- The car has been previously repainted
- Environmental factors (acid rain, industrial fallout) have affected the finish
In these cases, consider having a professional color match created by sampling your actual vehicle’s current color.
Beyond the Paint Code: Understanding Dodge Paint Technology
Base Coat/Clear Coat System
Most modern Dodge vehicles use a two-stage paint system:
- Base coat (contains the color)
- Clear coat (provides gloss and protection)
When doing touch-ups, you’ll need both components for the most durable and accurate repair, as explained in this helpful video guide.
Paint Finishes Explained
Dodge offers several distinct paint finishes, each with unique characteristics:
- Solid/Clearcoat: Single-color paints with a glossy clearcoat (like Bright White PW7)
- Metallic: Contains small aluminum particles that create a sparkle effect (like Granite Crystal PAU)
- Pearl: Includes ceramic crystals that create depth and color shifts (like Deep Water Blue PBS)
- Tri-coat: Three-layer systems with special effects (like Pearl White PWH)
Knowing your finish type helps when ordering touch-up products and setting expectations for your repair.
Resources for Dodge Paint Code Help
If you’re still having trouble locating or using your Dodge paint code:
- HD Paint Code offers a comprehensive database
- Your local Dodge dealership can look up your paint code using your VIN
- Auto parts stores often have paint code directories
With the right code and a bit of patience, you can keep your Dodge looking factory fresh for years to come.
Remember, the key to successful touch-ups is starting with the exact paint code. Take your time finding it, order the right products, and apply with care – your Dodge deserves nothing less than a perfect match.
