Start with the manufacturer’s documents or digital vehicle information for the colour or paint code. Its location and format depend on the model. The code helps identify the paint, but does not replace checking the existing finish. You can describe the damage initially even if you have not found the number yet.
Colour name and paint code are different
“Silver” describes a colour without identifying a particular paint. A marketing name is not always enough for repair planning either. Write down the code exactly as the manufacturer gives it, including letters and numbers. Add the model and year. This helps avoid assigning a similarly named colour to the wrong vehicle.
Where can you look without dismantling anything?
Use the manual or official information for your particular model. Some cars have a label; others also provide digital details. Tesla’s documentation for the 2025+ Model Y mentions digital “Car Details” and possibly a vehicle label. Its touch-up kit listing points to a label in the driver’s door area. These are model or product examples, not one standard location for every car.
If you cannot identify a label confidently, do not remove trim or select a number at random. Note the model and year, then ask the manufacturer or an appropriate contact. You can state clearly in your first enquiry that the information is missing.
Why the code does not complete the planning
The existing condition still needs checking after identification. Has the area been repainted? Is the damage on an edge or beside another panel? What area needs preparation and refinishing? Colour matching and transitions are planned for the particular vehicle. Finding a code does not guarantee an invisible result from any touch-up pen.
A short paint-code checklist
- Note make, model and approximate year.
- Copy the code exactly from a manufacturer source if known.
- Mention any known repainting or touch-ups.
- Add the affected panel and your preferred timing.
- Do not send complete vehicle documents or identity documents for the first contact.
You can copy just the code instead of photographing a whole label containing other data. If specific information is needed later, its transfer can be agreed separately.
Do I need the code before enquiring?
Not for an initial conversation about visible damage. Tell us what you know and what is missing. The next step can then be prepared appropriately. An initial description does not yet confirm a price or appointment.
Show your paint damage · Paint and scratches
Read more: why the paint system matters.
Sources and context
Tesla: Vehicle and Wheel Paint Codes, 2025+ Model Y · Tesla: Paint Repair Kit, code identification. These examples apply to the models and products described there. Repair planning depends on the particular vehicle.
