QUICK OVERVIEW

PaintScratch mixes your vehicle's paint color by matching it with the manufacturer's original paint code. Our color experts follow the exact recipe for the original paint, using precision equipment to get the color just right.

How the matching process works

  • 1. Enter your vehicle details

    Tell us the make, model, and year to narrow down the color options. You'll need to find your paint color code in order to confirm a color match. Where to find my color code >

  • 2. Purchase paint with matching code

    Order paint based on the paint color code - this is essentially the "recipe" for your specific vehicle's color.

  • 3. We custom mix the product

    Once you've placed your order, PaintScratch sends it to our auto paint specialists. They will accurately mix the color using PPG paint systems.

  • 4. Test before the final repair

    Test the paint off the vehicle first, let it dry, and compare it in the same light and angle as the surrounding paint.

Why paint code, year, make, & model matter

While the same color name can be shared by many different colors, the paint color code is unique to one specific color.  

Paint code

The vehicle's "recipe" for its paint color. It is often found in the door jamb, under the hood, or in the trunk area.

Year

Narrowing options by year helps weed out similar-looking colors that were not produced during your vehicle's year.

Make and model

Helps continue to narrow down options so you can find the correct paint color code for your vehicle. Browse all makes >

Find my paint color code

Can you custom match any color?

If the vehicle has faded, been repainted, or had repairs, the code may not describe the color currently visible on every panel. In those cases, technicians can review and computer-scan a mailed sample for a custom hand match.

This is a fallback for situations where the vehicle record alone cannot tell the whole story. A sample should be clean, dry, and representative of the panel you want to repair.

Custom Hand Matching

What affects how well the paint will match?

Color-matching is just the starting point. The finished appearance also depends on the vehicle itself and the repair. Test first before covering a visible area.

Vehicle aging

  • Sun, weather, and normal wear can change the color on the vehicle from its original appearance.

Previous repaint or repairs

  • Earlier body work may have used a color which is different than original.

Application

  • Surface preparation, coat thickness, drying, and clearcoat can affect the result.
  • We suggest multiple, thin layers of primer, paint, and clearcoat.

Metallic, pearl, and tricoat

  • Metallic flake, pearl, and tricoat  systems can change with angle, light, and application technique.

Paint systems

  • Regular systems use a basecoat + clearcoat process, while some colors use a tricoat system that also includes a midcoat.
  • Depending on the product and formula, paint may be water-based or solvent-based. 
  • For the best results, please read the application directions for your product and test the color first.
Read Product Directions

SHIPPING & RETURNS

Guaranteed Match or 75 Days to Return

If our paint doesn't match, it may be eligible for a replacement or refund within 75 days. Coverage depends on the circumstances and product, and exclusions apply. 

Shipping & Returns
common paint orders

Common Paints

Most orders are mixed and ready to ship within 5 business days.

Rare Paint Orders

Unique colors sometimes require research, and can take up to 10 business days to be ready to ship.

Special Requests

Hand-matched colors and complex orders may take longer to ship, depending on our workload. We take our time to get it right!

A multi-generational family business

PaintScratch is a family-owned American business serving customers since 1999. We bring more than 50 years of experience, and offer more than 100,000 different automotive paint colors. We've fulfilled over 1,306,500 orders - so we know what we're doing!

About Us

Why millions of car owners trust PaintScratch

  • Perfect Color Match - or we replace it free

    Custom mixed, just for you. No risk. No guesswork.

  • Free Shipping on Orders $149+

    Paint is mixed fresh. Most orders ship within 5 business days.

  • 75-Day Refunds & Returns

    We'll replace or refund – no need to mail back returns!

  • Easy for First-Time Users

    Kits for every skill level – from beginner to pro.

Frequently asked questions

Is the paint color code the only way to match my paint?

The paint code is the best starting point for a vehicle-specific search. Year, make, and model add confidence that the color is correct. If the vehicle has aged or been repainted, you can mail in a sample for us to hand-match.Ready to search for your vehicle color?

Does PaintScratch actually mix the paint?

Yes! PaintScratch helps you through the color matching process, then sends your order to our experienced color specialists in California who then use PPG paint systems to mix the paint.

Can you match a color that is not in your website catalogue?

Yes. You can mail us a sample part and our technicians can computer-scan it for a custom hand match. Contact PaintScratch for sample instructions first.

How soon will my paint ship?

Most paint is ready to ship in about 5 business days. Unique colors can take up to 10 business days.

Can the color still look different even with a matching color code?

Unfortunately, that is possible. Vehicle aging, repaint or repair history, and application technique can affect the appearance. Metallic, pearl, or tricoat effects can appear different depending on how they are applied. Test paint and allow to dry before applying to your vehicle.

Ready to find your perfect match?

We'll help you find the right color - or mix up something completely unique!

Search for my color