Looking to touch up your GMC Sierra but not sure where to find the paint code? You’re about to discover exactly where those elusive paint codes hide on your truck. Whether you’ve got a small scratch or planning a larger repair, finding the correct factory color code is crucial for a seamless match. Stick around and I’ll show you exactly where to look, what the codes mean, and how to use them.
GMC Sierra Paint Code Locations: Where to Look First
The paint code on your GMC Sierra isn’t hiding in some mysterious location—it’s printed right on the Service Parts Identification (SPID) sticker. This small but important label contains all the factory specs for your truck, including the paint formula.
Primary Location: The Glove Compartment
On most GMC Sierra models, the first place to check is inside your glove box. Open it up and look along the inner walls or back panel where you’ll find a white sticker with black text. The paint code will be listed under the “BC/CC” heading, which stands for Basecoat/Clearcoat.
Secondary Location: Driver’s Door Jamb
Can’t find the sticker in the glove box? No worries. Open your driver’s side door and check the door jamb (the area where the door connects to the body of the truck). The SPID sticker is often placed vertically along the edge of the doorframe or on the door itself near the latch.
Additional Locations to Check
If you’re still coming up empty-handed, check these other common spots:
- Center console compartment
- Under the driver’s seat
- Inside the passenger door jamb
- B-pillar area (the vertical support between front and rear doors)
- Inside the trunk or cargo area
- Under the hood on the firewall
In older Sierra models (pre-2007), you might even find the sticker affixed to the driver’s side B-pillar when the door is open.
How to Read Your GMC Sierra Paint Code
Once you’ve located the SPID sticker, you need to know what you’re looking for. GMC paint codes follow specific formats that tell you exactly what paint formula your truck uses.
Decoding the Paint Code Format
Look for an entry that begins with “BC/CC” followed by a code like “WA8555” or “U8624”. Here’s what these parts mean:
- BC/CC = Basecoat/Clearcoat (indicating a two-stage paint system)
- WA#### = GM’s internal paint code format (the #### is your specific color)
- U#### / L#### = Upper (body) or Lower (accent) colors for two-tone vehicles
For example, if your sticker shows “BC/CC WA8624,” the actual paint code is “WA8624” or simply “8624” in some systems.
Two-Tone Vehicles: Special Coding
If your Sierra has a two-tone paint job, you’ll see two separate codes:
- U code (Upper) – For the main body color
- L code (Lower) – For the accent color, typically on lower body panels
Common GMC Sierra Paint Colors and Their Codes
Here’s a handy reference table of popular GMC Sierra paint colors from recent model years:
| Color Name | Paint Code | Description | Years Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summit White | GAZ / WA8624 | Bright white, non-metallic | 2014-present |
| Onyx Black | GBA / WA8555 | Deep gloss black | 2014-present |
| Quicksilver Metallic | GAN | Silver with metallic flake | 2014-2020 |
| Cardinal Red | G7C | Bright red, non-metallic | 2019-present |
| Deep Bronze Metallic | GXN | Bronze with metallic finish | 2022-present |
| Thunderstorm Gray | GNO | Dark gray metallic | 2022-present |
| Downpour Metallic | GXP | Blue-gray metallic | 2022-present |
| Volcanic Red Tintcoat | GNT | Deep red with special tint | 2022-present |
| White Frost Tricoat | G1W / WA140X | Premium white with pearl effect | 2016-present |
Remember that GMC periodically updates their color offerings, so older models might have colors not listed here, while newer models introduce fresh options.
Understanding Different Paint Types on GMC Sierras
Not all paint is created equal, and GMC uses several different paint technologies on Sierra trucks.
Standard Single-Stage vs. Basecoat/Clearcoat
Most modern GMC Sierras use a two-stage basecoat/clearcoat system:
- Basecoat contains the color pigment
- Clearcoat provides gloss, depth, and protection
This is why your paint code starts with “BC/CC” on the SPID label.
Special Finishes: Metallic, Tintcoat and Tricoat
Premium colors often use special application techniques:
- Metallic finishes contain tiny metal flakes for a sparkle effect
- Tintcoat colors have a special tinted clearcoat for depth
- Tricoat (like White Frost Tricoat) uses three layers: basecoat, mid-coat with pearl effects, and clearcoat
These premium finishes often cost extra when ordering a new Sierra and require specific techniques when touching up.
What If You Can’t Find Your Paint Code?
If you’ve searched all the common locations and still can’t find your paint code, don’t panic. You have several backup options:
Check Your Vehicle Documentation
Look through your Sierra’s original sales paperwork or owner’s manual packet. Sometimes the build sheet or window sticker (if you kept it) will list the paint code.
Use Your VIN Number
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) contains information about your truck’s specifications. With your VIN, you can:
- Contact a GMC dealership parts department
- Use online paint code lookup tools that can decode your VIN
- Call GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782
Visit an Auto Paint Specialist
Professional auto paint shops and body shops have color-matching tools that can scan your truck’s paint and identify the closest factory match.
Ordering Touch-Up Paint Using Your GMC Sierra Paint Code
Once you’ve found your paint code, ordering the right touch-up paint is straightforward.
Where to Buy GMC Sierra Touch-Up Paint
You have several reliable options:
- GMC dealership parts department
- Online automotive touch-up specialists like Automotive Touchup or TouchUpDirect
- Auto parts stores (though selection may be limited)
What to Order
For best results, you’ll want to order:
- Color-matched basecoat paint
- Clear coat (if not included in a kit)
- Proper application tools (brush, spray, pen)
Always specify your exact paint code when ordering. For example, don’t just ask for “Summit White”—specify “GAZ” or “WA8624” to ensure an exact match.
Paint Code Changes Between GMC Sierra Model Years
GMC occasionally updates their paint formulations even when keeping the same color name. A Summit White from 2014 might have subtle differences from a 2023 version.
How to Identify Model Year Changes
The SPID sticker will show your truck’s build date, which helps determine the exact paint formulation. When ordering touch-up paint, always specify:
- Your exact paint code
- Your Sierra’s model year
- The build date if possible
This ensures you get the correct version of your color.
Maintaining Your GMC Sierra’s Paint After Touch-Ups
After you’ve repaired your Sierra’s paint using the correct factory code, proper maintenance will help preserve the repair and your truck’s overall finish.
Post-Repair Care Tips
- Wait at least 30 days before waxing a newly touched-up area
- Avoid automatic car washes for 30 days after a repair
- Park in shade when possible to prevent UV damage
- Use pH-balanced car wash soap rather than household cleaners
- Apply quality wax or sealant 2-4 times per year
Factory vs. Aftermarket Paint: What’s the Difference?
When using your GMC Sierra’s paint code, you should understand the difference between factory and aftermarket formulations.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Paint
- Exact match to factory specifications
- Often available only through dealerships
- Generally more expensive
- Highest quality match
Aftermarket Paint Using Factory Codes
- Formulated to match factory colors
- More widely available
- Usually less expensive
- Quality varies by manufacturer
Most touch-up specialists use your factory paint code to create their own version of the color, which should be nearly identical to the original.
Using Your GMC Sierra Paint Code for Major Repairs
For larger repairs beyond simple touch-ups, your paint code becomes even more critical.
Working With Body Shops
When getting quotes for collision repairs:
- Always provide your exact paint code
- Ask if they use OEM or aftermarket paint
- Discuss any concerns about matching metallic or special finishes
- Request a test spray on a small panel if you’re concerned about match quality
Professional body shops rely on your paint code as the starting point, but they’ll often blend the new paint into adjacent panels for a seamless repair.
By knowing exactly where to find your GMC Sierra paint code and how to use it correctly, you’ll ensure any repair—large or small—perfectly matches your truck’s original finish. Whether you’re touching up a stone chip or repainting after a collision, the right color code makes all the difference between a repair that disappears and one that stands out like a sore thumb.
