Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about ordering, paint codes, product choice, application, shipping, returns, safety, and support.

Ordering and paint codes

How do I know I am ordering the correct color?
Use the factory paint code from your vehicle, not just the color name or a screen image. Paint names can vary, but the code is the key match.
Where do I find my paint code?
Start with the Color ID tag or vehicle information label. Common places include the driver door jamb, glove box, trunk, spare tire area, underhood label, or manufacturer build sheet.
What if my color is not listed?
Use the missing color request or support page with the year, make, model, color name, and paint code if you have it. PaintScratch can review whether a custom match or formula lookup is available.

Product choice

Should I order a pen, bottle, spray can, PRO size, or kit?
Use a paint pen for tiny chips and narrow scratches, a bottle for small to medium chips and scratches, a spray can for larger scuffs or panels, and PRO sizes for larger repairs with proper spray equipment. Kits are best when you need the matching prep, paint, and finish products together.
Do I need primer?
Primer is recommended for bare metal, plastic, rubber, fiberglass, filler, unpainted surfaces, and repaired areas. Flexible or plastic parts may also need the correct adhesion promoter or compatible plastic primer.
Do I need clearcoat?
Most gloss basecoat colors need clearcoat for protection and gloss. Matte, satin, and flat finishes need special directions because normal gloss clearcoat, polishing, or buffing can change the sheen.
What is different about tricoat paint?
Tricoat colors use a basecoat, a translucent middle coat, and clearcoat. Practice first because the middle coat controls depth and can change the final color if applied too light or too heavy.

Directions and results

Can I apply touch up paint myself?
Yes, for normal chips and scratches if you prepare the surface, practice off the vehicle, and follow the product directions. Large panels, peeling clearcoat, rust, dents, and major scuffs may need professional repair.
Why can metallic or pearl paint look different?
Metallic and pearl particles must lay evenly. Light coats, steady spray technique, and even application matter; paint applied too wet or heavy can look darker or uneven.
What safety gear should I use?
Use automotive paint only with proper ventilation, gloves, eye protection, and an approved respirator. Spray cans and larger paint sizes are hazardous products and should be handled carefully.

Shipping, returns, and support

How much does shipping cost?
PaintScratch ships to U.S. addresses only. Shipping is free on orders of $149 or more. Orders without spray cans ship for $9.99, and orders with spray cans ship for $17.99.
Why do spray cans and larger sizes ship differently?
Spray cans and larger paint sizes are hazardous and must ship by ground service, so they cannot be rushed by air.
How long do I have to request a return, replacement, or refund?
Return, replacement, and refund requests must be submitted within 75 days of the order date. Start on the shipping and returns page and include photos when the issue is color match, damage, or a product problem.
Can custom-mixed paint be returned like a normal item?
No. Custom-mixed paint is made for the vehicle and color ordered, so it is not a normal restock item. Unused accessories and tools may be returnable within 75 days, with the customer paying return shipping unless the return is tied to a covered paint issue.
What should I send for a color match claim?
Send photos of a dried test sample next to the vehicle in natural daylight. Faded, changed, or repainted vehicle paint may not match perfectly even when PaintScratch mixed the original factory code correctly.
Do I need to mail anything back?
Do not mail anything back unless PaintScratch asks for it. Start with the support or shipping and returns form so the team can review the issue first.

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For small chips & scratches

Customized Color Paint Pen

Repair tiny chips and scratches with precision. Perfect for small nicks from rocks or door dings, the fine tip applicator makes it easy for beginners to achieve a clean, factory-quality finish.

From $19.95

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For Medium-sized Chips & Scratches

Customized Color Paint Bottle

Tackle medium-sized scratches and chips with our Customized Color Paint Bottle. The built-in applicator brush provides smooth, controlled coverage, while the included basecoat delivers a perfect factory match in your custom paint color.

From $34.95

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For larger areas & panel resprays

Customized Color Spray Can

Cover larger areas with a smooth, professional finish using ourcustomized color Spray Can. Designed for hoods, fenders, and larger scratches, this product provides consistent spray coverage and factory-matched color accuracy.

From $39.95

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For large repairs & total resprays

Customized Color Professional Size Paint

When your repair job calls for more than a touch-up, step up to our professional-size automotive paints. Available in Pint, Quart, or Gallon sizes, these paints are ready-to-spray using an airless spray gun.

From $109.95

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For small chips & scratches

Customized Color Tricoat Paint Pens

Repair tiny chips and scratches with precision. Perfect for small nicks from rocks or door dings, the fine tip applicator makes it easy for beginners to achieve a clean, factory-quality finish. Each order includes a basecoat and a midcoat pen.

From $34.95

Shop Now

For Medium-sized Chips & Scratches

Customized Color Tricoat Paint Bottles

Tackle medium-sized scratches and chips with our Customized Color Paint Bottles. The built-in applicator brush provides smooth, controlled coverage, while the basecoat & midcoat deliver a perfect factory match in your custom paint color.

From $64.95

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For larger areas & panel resprays

Customized Color Tricoat Spray Cans

Cover larger areas with a smooth, professional finish using our customized color basecoat & midcoat Spray Cans. Designed for hoods, fenders, and larger scratches, this product provides consistent spray coverage and factory-matched color accuracy.

From $79.95

Shop Now

For large repairs & total resprays

Customized Color Tricoat Professional Size Paint

When your repair job calls for more than a touch-up, step up to our professional-size automotive paints. Available in Pint, Quart, or Gallon sizes, these paints are ready-to-spray using an airless spray gun. Each order includes a basecoat & a midcoat paint.

From $209.95

Shop Now