The paint code is usually listed on the Vehicle Information Label in the driver’s door jamb; if it isn’t there, you may find it on a label in the trunk near the spare tire well, or you can contact a Subaru dealer with your VIN to confirm the exact color code.
Primary location: vehicle information label on the driver’s door jamb
Checking the driver’s door area is the most reliable way to locate the color code. The label includes the VIN, tire sizes, weight limits, and a paint or color entry that identifies your Forester’s exterior color.
- Open the driver’s door and inspect the doorjamb for the Vehicle Information Plate.
- Look for a line labeled with “PAINT” or “COLOR” where the color code is printed.
- The code is typically 2–3 characters long and may be a mix of letters and numbers.
Before listing the common spots to check, note these steps to locate the label quickly:
Consulting this primary label is usually enough to identify your paint code. If the label is faded, damaged, or missing, proceed to the alternative locations or contact your dealer with your VIN for confirmation.
Alternative locations and how to verify the code
Some Forester models may place the color code in additional spots or provide it via a VIN lookup at a dealership. The following options can help verify or locate the code when the primary label is unavailable:
- Trunk area label near the spare tire well — look for a second sticker that lists a PAINT/COLOR entry.
- Owner’s manual or service booklet — check for a color code chart or a listing of the color name with its code.
- VIN-based dealer lookup — provide your VIN to a Subaru dealer or an authorized body shop to retrieve the exact paint code from Subaru’s database.
These alternatives increase the chances of obtaining the correct color code for touch-ups or repainting. If needed, the dealer can cross-check the code with Subaru’s internal color database.
How to use the paint code for touch-ups or repainting
Once you have the code, use it to order a match-grade touch-up paint, spray cans, or spray-ready paint from dealerships, auto parts retailers, or body shops. The code ensures an exact match to your Forester’s original exterior color.
- Provide the 2–3 character code and the model/year when ordering paint.
- If you’re unsure about shade or finish (metallic, pearl, or solid), consult a professional color-matching service for the best result.
Having the code on hand simplifies the repaint or touch-up process and helps ensure a consistent color match across panels and repairs.
Summary
For most Subaru Forester owners, the quickest way to find the paint code is the Vehicle Information Label in the driver’s door jamb. If that label is missing or unreadable, check the trunk area label near the spare tire well or contact a Subaru dealer with your VIN to retrieve the code. Keep the code handy for future touch-ups or repainting to ensure a precise color match.
What is my Subaru paint code?
Identifying your Color Code
The color plate may be on top of the drivers side strut; in recent years it is in the driver or passenger side door jambs. Typical Subaru paint codes are three digits long and composed of numbers and letters.
Where's the paint code on a Subaru Forester?
Door. And you'll see a plate down here. And you'll see Subaru Corporation you can see the VIN. And if you just keep reading down here you'll see color code H5Q.
Does my VIN number tell me the color?
You pulling up a car in a database made by the manufacturer does not mean the color is coded into the VIN. It means they put the color in their database that you're using. A random VIN report can't pull the car's color, because the VIN does not identify color.
Can I look up a paint code by VIN number?
Use an Online Decoder: There are many free websites where you can type in your VIN. These tools “read” the code and list your car's original factory details. Check the “Paint” Field: Look for a section labeled “Color” or “Paint Code.” It is usually a mix of letters and numbers like WA8555 or NH-731P.