BMW 4 Series Paint Info
The Color Breakdown
BMW didn't just choose a palette for the 4 Series; they curated an art gallery. With 69 recorded colors, they really went for it. You'll find everything from the crisp, classic Alpine White III to the flamboyant Velvet Orchid and the electric Snapper Rocks Blue. Whether your car is dressed in a sophisticated Champagner Quartz or looks like it's ready for the track in Isle of Man Green, BMW has ensured that "standard" is never an option. If you're looking at a sea of Brooklyn Gray and Skyscraper Grey, don't worry-even the "50 shades of grey" crowd gets a premium metallic flake that deserves a little love.
What to Watch For
Before you pop that cap, we need to find your DNA. Your paint code is usually hiding on a black sticker in the driver's side door jamb (look for a 3-digit code like 300 or B39). BMW paint is famous for being a bit "soft," which is a polite way of saying the low, aggressive nose of the 4 Series is essentially a magnet for road debris. Keep a close eye on the front bumper and the leading edge of the hood; these are the usual suspects for tiny rock chips. You might also notice the clear coat can be sensitive to hard water spots on darker shades like Black Sapphire, but a steady hand can fix those small nicks before they decide to invite rust to the party.
Driveway Repair Tip
Since so many 4 Series colors are heavy on the pearls and metallics (we're looking at you, Mineral White), your first job is to give that touch-up bottle a workout. Shake it for a full 60 to 90 seconds-the "shimmer" likes to settle at the bottom, and you want those sparkles to actually make it onto the car. When applying, think of yourself as a surgeon, not a house painter. Use the very tip of the brush or a toothpick to "dab" the paint into the chip rather than wiping it across. If you're working with one of the "Frozen" matte finishes, remember: patience is your only tool. Apply thin, light layers and let them dry completely; rushing a matte finish is the fastest way to accidentally create a shiny spot.