Can’t match that paint chip on your Toyota? You’re about to solve this common headache. Toyota’s paint code system makes finding the exact color match possible, but only if you know where to look. I’ll walk you through exactly where to locate your Toyota’s paint code, how to interpret it, and what to do with this information when it’s time for touch-ups or repairs.
Where to Find Toyota Paint Codes on Modern Vehicles
Finding your Toyota’s paint code is surprisingly simple once you know where to look. For all Toyota models manufactured after 1989, the location is standardized and consistent.
The Driver’s Door Jamb: Your First Stop
The most reliable place to find your Toyota paint code is on the driver’s side door jamb. Open your driver’s door and look for a white or silver sticker—this is your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sticker, and it contains crucial vehicle information including your paint code.
On this label, find the section marked “C/TR:” (which stands for Color/Trim). The paint code appears as the first three characters after this designation and before any forward slash. For example, if you see “C/TR: 1G3/FB22,” your paint code is “1G3” (which happens to be Magnetic Gray Metallic), while the characters after the slash refer to interior trim specifications.
This standardized location works for virtually all Toyota models including:
- Camry
- Corolla
- RAV4
- Tacoma
- Tundra
- Highlander
- 4Runner
- Prius
- Avalon
- Sienna
Understanding the VIN Sticker Format
The VIN sticker doesn’t just list your paint code—it contains several pieces of vital information about your vehicle. Here’s what you might see on a typical Toyota VIN sticker:
| Section | Example | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| MFD BY | TOYOTA | Manufacturer |
| DATE | 07/21 | Month/Year of Manufacture |
| VIN | JTEKU5JR7M5123456 | Vehicle Identification Number |
| TYPE | MPV | Vehicle Type |
| C/TR | 1G3/FB22 | Color/Trim (Paint/Interior) |
The paint code is always a three-character alphanumeric sequence that may include both numbers and letters. Toyota uses this system to identify hundreds of different colors precisely.
Where to Find Paint Codes on Older Toyota Models
If you drive a Toyota manufactured before 1989, the paint code location differs from modern vehicles.
Pre-1989 Toyota Paint Code Locations
For older Toyota passenger cars, trucks, and Land Cruisers, check:
- On or near the firewall in the engine compartment
- Sometimes attached to the radiator support
- In some cases, inside the glove compartment
For Toyota vans from this era, look:
- Under the front passenger seat (typically under a carpet flap)
- On the body directly below the passenger seat
If you’re restoring a classic Toyota, you might also find the original color information in the vehicle’s maintenance booklet or owner’s manual if you still have it.
How to Read Toyota Paint Codes
Toyota’s paint code system is straightforward yet comprehensive, allowing for hundreds of distinct color formulations.
Decoding the Three-Character System
Every Toyota paint code consists of three alphanumeric characters that identify the exact color formulation. These codes range from simple numeric sequences to more complex combinations:
| Paint Code | Color Name |
|---|---|
| 040 | Super White |
| 070 | Blizzard Pearl |
| 1G3 | Magnetic Gray Metallic |
| 3R3 | Barcelona Red Metallic |
| 8T7 | Blue Streak Metallic |
The code doesn’t follow a specific pattern where numbers correspond to color families—it’s simply Toyota’s internal system for cataloging their paint formulations. What matters is that this three-character code provides the exact information needed to match your vehicle’s paint perfectly.
Common Toyota Paint Codes by Color Family
Toyota offers a wide spectrum of colors across their vehicle lineup. Here are some of the most common codes you might encounter:
White Shades:
- 040: Super White (solid)
- 070: Blizzard Pearl
- 056: White
- 058: Warm White
Silver and Gray:
- 1G3: Magnetic Gray Metallic
- 1F7: Classic Silver Metallic
- 1D4: Titanium Metallic
- 1J9: Celestial Silver Metallic
Black Options:
- 202: Black (solid)
- 209: Black Sand Pearl
- 211: Black Diamond
- 226: Glitter Black Pearl
Red Variations:
- 3P1: Impulse Red Metallic
- 3R3: Barcelona Red Metallic
- 3Q3: Salsa Red Pearl
- 3P0: Absolutely Red (solid)
Blue Varieties:
- 8T7: Blue Streak Metallic
- 8P1: Speedway Blue Metallic
- 8R6: Blueprint
- 8T0: Blazing Blue Pearl
Alternative Ways to Verify Your Toyota Paint Code
If you can’t locate the paint code sticker or it’s damaged, don’t worry—you have other options.
Using Your VIN Number at the Dealership
Any Toyota dealership can look up your vehicle’s original paint specifications using your VIN. This is especially helpful if your vehicle has been repainted or if the original sticker is missing.
Online Resources and Tools
The Toyota Owners website allows registered users to access detailed specifications about their vehicles, including the original paint code. Simply enter your VIN and access your vehicle’s profile to find this information.
Many aftermarket paint suppliers also offer color matching services that can identify Toyota paint codes using physical samples or digital photography.
Using Toyota Paint Codes for Repairs and Touch-Ups
Once you’ve identified your paint code, you can use it to source the exact color match for your vehicle.
Getting the Right Paint Products
With your Toyota paint code in hand, you can purchase touch-up products from several sources:
- Toyota dealerships: For the most accurate match, dealership parts departments sell touch-up pens and spray cans formulated to match your exact paint code.
- Automotive paint suppliers: Companies like Automotive Touchup use your paint code to mix custom batches that precisely match Toyota’s factory finishes.
- Online retailers: Many online stores offer pre-mixed paint products specifically formulated for Toyota paint codes.
Understanding Different Paint Finishes
Modern Toyota vehicles use sophisticated paint technologies that may require special consideration when matching:
- Solid colors (like code 040 Super White): These are the simplest to match and repair
- Metallic finishes (like code 1G3 Magnetic Gray Metallic): Contain aluminum particles that reflect light and create depth
- Pearl finishes (like code 070 Blizzard Pearl): Use mica particles that create color-shifting effects and require more sophisticated application techniques
Most Toyota vehicles use a basecoat/clearcoat system, which means there’s a colored base layer followed by a protective clear coating. When performing touch-ups, you’ll need to replicate both layers for the best results.
Special Considerations for Specific Toyota Models
While Toyota’s paint code system is consistent across their lineup, there are some model-specific considerations worth noting.
Limited Edition and Special Color Options
Some Toyota models feature exclusive colors not available across the entire lineup. For example:
- TRD Pro models often feature exclusive colors like Voodoo Blue or Army Green
- Limited release vehicles may have unique paint codes
- Certain trim levels might offer special color options
These unique finishes still use the standard three-character coding system, but the formulations might be harder to find for touch-ups.
Aging and Color Matching Challenges
If you own an older Toyota, be aware that even with the correct paint code, there may be challenges matching the current appearance of your vehicle:
- UV exposure causes paint to fade over time
- Environmental factors can alter the appearance of the original color
- Older paint formulations may have been slightly modified in newer batches
For vehicles over 10 years old, you might need color adjustment even when using the correct paint code to account for these natural changes.
Toyota Paint Code Technology and Evolution
Toyota’s paint systems have evolved significantly over the decades, reflecting advances in automotive finishing technology.
Modern Paint Technologies
Today’s Toyota vehicles feature sophisticated paint systems:
- Basecoat/clearcoat technology provides superior durability and appearance
- Water-based paints reduce environmental impact
- UV-resistant formulations reduce fading
- Self-healing clearcoats on some premium models minimize minor scratches
These advancements make modern Toyota finishes more resistant to environmental damage, but they also require more sophisticated repair techniques.
Historical Paint Evolution
Toyota’s paint coding system became standardized in the 1980s, but the company has used various identification methods throughout its history:
- Early Toyota vehicles used different coding systems
- Paint formulations have changed to meet environmental regulations
- Durability and color retention have improved significantly
- The three-character code system has remained consistent for decades
This systematic approach to paint identification has made Toyota a leader in color consistency and matching precision throughout the automotive industry.
Finding Toyota Paint Codes for Special Situations
Some specific scenarios require additional steps to locate or verify your Toyota’s paint code.
Repainted Vehicles
If your Toyota has been repainted, the current color may not match the code on the door jamb sticker. In this case:
- Consult with the previous owner if possible
- Check service records for paint work information
- Have a professional paint specialist analyze the current finish
- Consider using color-matching technology at an auto body shop
Imported or JDM Toyota Models
Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) Toyota vehicles sometimes use different paint codes or have unique colors not offered in other markets. For these vehicles:
- Check import documentation for color information
- Research JDM-specific paint code resources
- Consult with specialists in imported Toyota vehicles
- Look for the VIN plate in the same locations as US models
With your Toyota paint code identified, you’ll be well-equipped to maintain your vehicle’s appearance through minor touch-ups or more extensive refinishing work. The precise three-character code ensures you’ll get exactly the right color match every time—keeping your Toyota looking its best for years to come.
