Color damage during car body repairs Nissan - a task that requires extreme precision. Even a slight deviation in shade can make the repair noticeable and ruin the appearance of the car, especially when it comes to modern complex paints with pearlescent or metallic effects. Many car owners believe that the color name indicated on the documents is enough to order the material, but this is a common misconception that often leads to failure.
The manufacturer uses a system of factory codes that uniquely identify a specific shade, including modifications used in different years of production. Correctly found color code - this is a guarantee that after painting your car will look like new, and the joints between the old and new layers will be absolutely invisible. In this article we will look in detail at where exactly the data plate is located and how to correctly interpret the information found.
Where is the color code plate on a Nissan?
The main source of information about factory paint is a special metal plate, which is attached to the body in strictly defined places. For most models Nissan Qashqai, X-Trail and Almera This location is located on the B-pillar on the driver's door side. You need to open the door and carefully inspect the post on which the lock is attached, in the lower or middle part.
On some models, especially older or specific versions, information may be duplicated on the partition of the engine compartment or on the inside of the trunk lid. The plate is a rectangular plate on which various VIN data, weight, permissible tire pressure and, of course, color information are embossed or printed. Look for the column that is designated as PAINT, COLOR or PAINT COLOR.
It is important to note that a paint code usually consists of three characters: letters and numbers. It may look like QAB, K51 or 3R1. Sometimes the color name in English is indicated next to the code, but you should not rely on it alone, since the names may change, but the code remains unchanged for a particular batch.
Explanation of symbols and color combinations
Modern cars are often painted in two or more shades, for example when the roof is a different color from the main body. In such cases, the plate will contain several lines with codes. The first line is usually responsible for the main body color, and the subsequent ones are for additional elements, such as the hood, trunk or roof. It is necessary to carefully write down all codes if you plan to select material for different parts of the machine.
Sometimes the color code is accompanied by a letter index that indicates the type of coating: metallic, mother-of-pearl or regular single-layer varnish. These nuances are critically important when ordering paint, since the application technology and composition of materials differ significantly. An error in determining the type of coating will lead to the fact that even with the correct number, the shade will “float” in different lighting conditions.
Some owners confuse the color code with the VIN or body number. Remember that the VIN is a unique vehicle identifier containing information about the manufacturer, engine and equipment, while the paint code is solely responsible for the color scheme. You need to look for it specifically in the field marked as color, and not in the general barcode.
Alternative ways to find color information
If the plate with the code is lost, damaged by corrosion or worn out over time, you should not immediately contact colorists for selection “by eye”. There are other ways to find out the paint number. First of all, check the documents for the car. In some cases, especially when purchasing in showrooms, information about color may be included in the technical passport or service book, although this is less common than on the plate.
The second option is to contact the dealer Nissan. By providing them with the vehicle's VIN, technicians can query the factory database to obtain the exact paint code that was used to build your car. This is the most reliable method if the physical plate is not available. The dealer database contains a complete history of the configuration of a specific car from the assembly line.
You can also use online services for selecting spare parts and consumables. By entering the VIN code on specialized websites, you will be able to see a catalog image of the car indicating all factory codes, including color. However, it is worth remembering that not all such services update data instantly, so checking with an official dealer is preferable.
- Metallic
- Mother of pearl
- Matte
- Regular enamel
Features of paint selection for different Nissan series
Assortment of flowers Nissan includes many unique shades such as the legendary "Sunset Red" or "Pearl White". For some models, e.g. GT-R or Leaf, the palette may differ from the standard line. It is important to understand that the same color code on different models may be visually different due to the specific paint application and body materials.
When working with pearlescent paints, which are often used on premium models, special care is required. These paints consist of several layers, and each layer has its own shade. The code on the label indicates the base composition, but when selecting, the artist must take into account the condition of the old varnish and the degree of fading in order to achieve a perfect match.
For models with two-tone paint, e.g. Nissan Juke or Qashqai with a black roof, you must separately specify the code for each zone. An error in choosing a code for the roof will result in it not matching the rest of the body, which will immediately catch your eye. Carefully read the decoding instructions for your specific model.
Color Testing Tools and Equipment
For professional paint selection, a spectrophotometer is often used - a device that measures the reflection of light from a surface and determines the exact color profile. This is especially true if the car has already been repainted or has signs of fading. The spectrophotometer allows you to adjust the factory code taking into account the current condition of the body.
However, at home, if you plan to touch up chips, you can do without complex equipment. It is enough to have a color catalog on hand Nissan and a paint sample for comparison. It is important to make comparisons in natural daylight, since artificial light can distort the perception of color.
It is also useful to know that paint manufacturers may offer their own analogues of factory codes. For example, a company Spies Hecker or Standox has its own databases that correspond to the original codes Nissan. When ordering material in a store, indicate the factory code, and not the approximate name of the color.
☑️ Check data before ordering
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to mix paint yourself without knowing the exact formula. Even the slightest error in the proportions of pigments can cause the color to differ by several tones, which will make the repair poor quality.
Popular Nissan Color Code Chart
To make it easier to find the right shade, we have prepared a table with the most common color codes found on models Nissan. Please note that these codes may vary depending on the year of the vehicle, so always check them against the data on your car.
| Color name | Color code | Coverage type | Years of manufacture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Super Black | KA1 | Metallic | 2010-2023 |
| Brilliant Silver | K10 | Metallic | 2005-2023 |
| Gun Metallic | K51 | Metallic | 2012-2023 |
| Pearl White | QAB | Mother of pearl | 2014-2023 |
| Sunset Red | K80 | Metallic | 2018-2023 |
Mistakes when searching and selecting paint
One of the most common mistakes is ignoring paint fading. Over time, the sun changes the shade of the coating, and even if the code matches exactly, the new paint may look brighter or darker than the old one. In such cases, the colorist must add correctors to the paint to smooth out the difference.
Another mistake is using third-party paints without checking compatibility. Some budget analogues may not match the composition of the original enamel Nissanwhich will cause poor adhesion or discoloration over time. Always give preference to trusted brands that work with automaker databases.
Also, don't rely on visual comparisons in stores. Retail lighting often distorts colors, and what appears to be a perfect match under the lamp may look completely different on the street. Always order a sample or sample before purchasing large quantities of material.
What to do if the code is completely erased?
If the plate is completely destroyed by corrosion or mechanical stress, the only reliable way is to contact an authorized dealer with the VIN code. As a last resort, you can use a spectrophotometer to remove color from an undamaged area of the body, but this requires a highly qualified technician.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing paint secondhand or disassembled, make sure that it is stored in the correct conditions. Long-term storage without stirring can lead to separation of components and discoloration.
Tip: Before ordering paint, take a photo of the plate with the code and VIN code on your phone. This will help avoid errors when transferring data to the store manager.
Conclusion and important conclusions
Find car paint number Nissan is a process that requires attention to detail and precision. Using the correct information found on the nameplate will ensure that you get the material that is perfect for your vehicle. You should not save time on searching, as this will save you money and nerves in the future.
Remember that even the most accurate code may require adjustments when applied, especially if the body has signs of use. Trust the selection to professional colorists who have access to modern databases and equipment. This will ensure the best result and preserve the value of your car.
Ultimately, choosing the right paint is not just a technical task, but also an art that requires experience and knowledge. By following our recommendations, you can avoid common mistakes and achieve impeccable results when repairing your Nissan.
The exact color code on the nameplate is the only way to guarantee a perfect shade match without the need for complex manual adjustments.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Where is the paint code on Nissan Qashqai?
Paint code on Nissan Qashqai usually located on a decal attached to the B-pillar on the driver's side. Open the door and look at the bottom or middle of the counter. Information can also be found in documents or through the VIN code from the dealer.
What to do if the paint code plate is lost?
If the plate is lost, use the vehicle's VIN to contact an authorized dealer. Nissan. They can request data from the factory database and provide the exact paint code. An alternative option is to use a spectrophotometer to remove color from an undamaged area of the body.
Is it possible to select paint by color name?
No, it is not recommended to rely solely on the color name. The names may change depending on the year of manufacture and region, but the code remains the same. For accurate selection, always use the three-character factory code.
How to distinguish a paint code from a VIN code?
The paint code usually consists of three characters (letters and numbers) and is located in the PAINT or COLOR on the sign. The VIN is a long combination of 17 characters that contains information about the vehicle as a whole. Don't confuse these data.
Do I need to adjust the paint when touching up chips?
Yes, when touching up chips, color adjustments are often required, since the old paint may have faded under the sun. Even if the code matches exactly, the new paint may look brighter. Professional colorists add correctors to smooth out the differences.