On most 2017 model-year cars, the paint code is a short alphanumeric string that identifies the exact color. In practice, you’ll usually find it on a sticker in the driver’s door jamb, labeled with terms like “Paint,” “Exterior Color,” or a color code field.
Automakers place the code in slightly different spots depending on the brand and model, so this guide walks you through common locations, how to read the code, and what to do if you can’t locate it. The information is applicable to a wide range of 2017 vehicles and can help you source the correct touch-up paint or full repaint match.
Common locations to check
These are the standard starting points. The correct spot can vary by make and model, but the driver’s door jamb sticker is the most reliable first stop.
- Driver’s door jamb sticker: Look on the edge of the door or the door frame for a label that includes “Paint,” “Exterior Color,” or a small color code (often 2–3 characters).
- Glove box or trunk area: Some models place the color code on a label inside the glove box or near the spare tire in the trunk.
- Engine bay/radiator support: A sticker under the hood or on the radiator support may display the color code for certain trims or markets.
- Owner’s manual or service booklet: If the sticker isn’t visible on the car, the color code may be listed in the vehicle specifications section.
If you still can’t locate the code after checking these spots, don’t assume the color is not listed—different production lines and regions may place it in a less obvious location, or the label may have worn off over time.
Brand-specific tips
While the general locations above cover most 2017 models, some brands tend to favor particular spots. Use these quick references as a guide, and when in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or a dealer for your exact make/model.
- Toyota/Lexus: Commonly found on the driver’s door jamb sticker; if not there, check near the latch area inside the door or the glove box depending on the model.
- Honda/Acura: Typically on the driver’s door jamb; a color code label may also appear near the VIN on the dash or in the engine bay area for some models.
- Ford/GM (Chevy/GMC)/Chrysler (Dodge/Jeep/Ram): Often located on the driver’s door jamb sticker, sometimes with the VIN or build information nearby; some models also place it under the hood on a radiator-support sticker.
- Nissan/Hyundai/Kia: Frequently found on the driver’s door jamb sticker; in some cases the color code appears inside the glove box or in the trunk area if the door jamb label is missing.
Because there can be regional or model-year variations, the exact wording on the label may differ (for example, “Exterior Paint,” “Body Color,” or a shorthand code). If you can’t locate it, provide your vehicle’s make, model, and trim to a dealer or body shop for a precise lookup.
Understanding and using the paint code
Once you locate the code, you’ll typically use it to order touch-up paint or arrange a color match with a body shop. The code itself is usually a 2- to 3-character alphanumeric string, sometimes with a broader batch or finish indicator.
How to read and apply the code
- The code is often a short string of letters and/or numbers (2–3 characters in many brands). It identifies the exact factory color, including any mid-year color variations.
- Many brands pair the code with a color name, though the code is the most reliable reference for mixing paint. If the name differs by region, rely on the code when ordering.
- When ordering paint, provide the exact code along with the vehicle’s year, make, model, and trim. If you’re mixing for a repair, a professional body shop can use the code to reproduce the color accurately.
- If you can’t find the code, the dealership can pull it from the vehicle’s build data using the VIN. A shop with a color-matching system can also identify a close match by sampling existing paint.
In most cases, the code is sufficient for a precise match, but some cars with multi-coat paints or special finishes may require additional details (like metallic or pearlescent indicators) to achieve an exact result.
If you want me to tailor this to a specific 2017 make and model, tell me the exact vehicle (make, model, trim), and I’ll point you to the most likely location and the precise code format for that car.
Summary: For a 2017 vehicle, start by checking the driver’s door jamb sticker for a “Paint” or “Exterior Color” code. If not visible, inspect the glove box, trunk area near the spare tire, or the engine bay stickers. If you still can’t find it, consult the owner’s manual or contact a dealer with your VIN to retrieve the exact paint code. Knowing the code will help you order the correct touch-up paint or arrange a precise color match.