Nissan K23 color: deciphering the code, where to look and how to choose the right paint

Color code K23 from Nissan is one of the most common shades in the Japanese brand’s line, but its exact decoding and selection nuances often raise questions. This color belongs to the classic “dark gray metallic” palette, which was used on dozens of models - from compact Micra up to full size Patrol. However, even within the same code there may be variations depending on the year of manufacture, manufacturer and type of paintwork.

The main problem for owners is the mismatch of shades during local repairs. The point is that K23 paint in cans from official suppliers (for example, Nissan Paint or DuPont) may differ from the factory coating by 5–10%, especially if the machine has been operated outdoors for more than 3–5 years. In this article, we will look at how to accurately identify the color, where to look for the original markings, and which analogues are suitable for restoration without the risk of “spotting.”

What does the K23 code mean: official decoding

Code K23 in catalogs Nissan denotes shade «Dark Gray Metallic»** (dark gray metallic). This is not a flat gray, but a color with the addition of aluminum chips, which gives depth and a slight “chameleon effect” in different lighting. Depending on viewing angles, K23 may look like:

• 🔹 Cold graphite - in cloudy weather or in the shade;
• 🔹 Slightly bluish - under direct sunlight;
• 🔹 Anthracite with a silver tint — under artificial lighting (for example, under LED headlights).

Important: Nissan uses several modifications of this code for different regions. For example, for the European market (Nissan Europe) K23 may be 2-3 shades lighter than for Middle Eastern or Japanese markets. This is due to climatic conditions and customer preferences.

Where to look for the K23 color code on a Nissan body

Official paint code K23 indicated on the nameplate (VIN-plate), but its location depends on the model. Here are typical places:

Model Nissan	Plaque location	Example notation
Qashqai (J10, J11)	Left driver's door pillar or under the hood	COLOR: K23 / TRIM: A1
X-Trail (T31, T32)	On the driver's side sill or in the trunk	PAINT: K23M (letter M - metallic)
Patrol (Y61, Y62)	Under the hood on the shock absorber support	EXT COLOR: K23 / INT: B5
Juke (F15)	In the glove compartment or on the center pillar	K23 / TRIM CODE: X7

⚠️ Attention: On some models (for example, Navara NP300) the color code can be duplicated in electronic form - it can be read through the diagnostic connector OBD-II using a scanner (for example, Launch X431). However, this method only works for cars manufactured after 2010.

If the plate is missing or the code has been erased, alternative identification methods:

• 🔍 Check by VIN code through databases Nissan (for example, service Nissan ETIS).
• 📊 Comparison with catalogs DuPont or PPG - they have K23 samples for different years.
• 🎨 Using a spectrophotometer (colorization device) in car services.

Original and similar paints for K23

For precise paint selection K23 Manufacturers offer several options - from original cans to universal analogues. Main suppliers:

Manufacturer	Article/name	Type	Notes
Nissan Original Paint	K23 (999MP K23)	Base + varnish	An exact match, but expensive (from RUB 8,000 per 1 liter).
DuPont	Nissan K23 / D8336	Base + varnish	Popular analogue, suitable for 90% of cases.
PPG	Nissan K23 / 971631	Base + varnish	Maybe a little lighter than the original.
Mobihel	K23 (Nissan series)	Aerosol	Convenient for minor repairs, but requires varnishing.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing paint, check production batch - Even within the same brand, the shade may differ. For example, DuPont K23 The 2018 will be darker than the same paint on the 2022. Always take a sample and test in an inconspicuous area (for example, under the hood).

If you need a budget option, you can use universal analogues:

• 🔘 RAL 7021 — a similar shade, but without metallic;
• 🔘 NCS S 6502-B — suitable for European models;
• 🔘 Mitsubishi PY5 — almost identical, but a little warmer.

Typical mistakes when selecting and painting K23

Even experienced painters face problems when working with K23. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Failure to take into account paint fading. Over time, the original K23 will fade and become matte. If you paint a piece with new paint without adjustments, it will look brighter. Solution: add 5-10% matting additive (for example, DuPont Matte Clear).
2. Ignoring the substrate. The K23 looks different on plastic bumpers than on metal ones. Solution: use primer for plastic (eg 3M Plastic & Paint Prep).
3. Incorrect coat of varnish.Too much or too little varnish will distort the shade. Solution: Apply 2 layers of varnish with intermediate drying for 15 minutes.

⚠️ Attention: If you are painting a part partially (for example, a wing after an accident), be sure to do transition over varnish to the adjacent part. Otherwise, the border will be noticeable after 2–3 months due to different degrees of gloss.

Clean the surface from dirt and grease (degreaser App W900)

Matte the old paint with sandpaper P1200–P1500

Apply primer (for metal - PPG DP40, for plastic - 3M 05907)

Check the color with a sampler on a small area -->

How to preserve K23 color for a long time: care and protection

Color K23 prone to loss of shine and microcracks due to UV radiation. To keep your paint looking like new longer:

• 🚿 Washing: Use contactless shampoos (eg. Karcher RM530) and soft microfiber sponges. Abrasive scourers scratch metallics.
• 🛡️ Protection: Apply a ceramic coating (eg. Ceramic Pro 9H) or wax (Collinite 845) every 6 months.
• 🌞 Parking: Try to leave the car in the shade or use a cover made of SilverGuard (reflects UV rays).

What to do if K23 has already burned out?

If the color has lost its saturation, you can restore it without completely repainting:

1. Polish the car with abrasive paste (3M 09374) to remove the oxidized layer.

2. Apply restorative gel (Poorboys Black Hole).

3. Cover with protective varnish (Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax).

This method will return up to 70% of the original shine, but will not help with deep scratches.

Frequently asked questions about K23 color (FAQ)

Is it possible to paint a K23 part with a spray can without varnish?

Technically it is possible, but the result will be short-lived. Without varnish, the metallic will quickly fade, and the paint will begin to peel off after 6-12 months. If you are using an aerosol (for example, Mobihel K23), be sure to cover with 2 layers of acrylic varnish (Motip Clear Lacquer).

Why does K23 look greenish after painting?

This is a typical problem when using cheap analogues or incorrectly mixing the base. The original K23 has a light blue pigment, but fakes often add green. Solution: repaint using paint from DuPont or PPG and add 1-2 drops of blue color.

How to choose K23 for Nissan 2005 and 2020 - is it the same shade?

No, the composition of the paint has changed over 15 years. In older versions (before 2010), K23 was darker and less metallic. For an accurate selection, take paint marked K23 (pre-2010) or K23 (post-2010).

Can K23 be mixed with other Nissan gray colors (like KH3)?

Not recommended. KH3 is a light gray metallic with a beige undertone, and K23 is a dark graphite. When mixed, it will create a dirty shade. If you need to lighten K23, it is better to add a white base pigment (DuPont Mixing White) in a proportion of no more than 10%.