Owners of brand cars Nissan, especially models Qashqai and X-Trail, are often faced with the need to restore paintwork. When searching for original paint or tinting a new part, one of the most common requests is the code KY0. This is not just a set of characters, but a unique identifier that determines the exact chemical composition and visual perception of the color of your car.
Understanding what's behind the acronym KY0, is critical to obtaining a perfect result when renovating. An error in choosing a shade can lead to the fact that the new part will be noticeably different from the main body, even if visually the color seems similar. In this article we will examine in detail the characteristics of this shade, methods of identifying it and the nuances of professional restoration.
Decoding the code and the official name of the color
Code KY0 in the manufacturer's palette Nissan corresponds to the shade, which is officially referred to as Brilliant Silver or "Diamond Silver". This is one of the most popular neutral Metallic shades and is used on a huge number of models, from compact Micra to SUVs Patrol. The peculiarity of this color is the presence of tiny aluminum flakes, which create the effect of depth and shimmer in different lighting conditions.
It is important to understand that although the color name remains the same, its shade may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture of the car. Manufacturers often adjust paint formulations to meet new environmental standards or current design trends. Therefore, if your car was manufactured in 2015, and you are trying to select paint from the 2023 catalog, even with the same code KY0, the difference in tone may be noticeable to the eye.
Silver metallic colors such as Brilliant Silver, are considered universal and practical. They are less easily soiled compared to black or red shades, and dust and small scratches are less visible on them. However, it is the silver color that requires special attention to the quality of application, since any flaws in the spraying technology immediately become noticeable on a smooth surface.
Location of the paint code plate on the car
Before ordering paint, you need to make sure you are using the correct code. By car Nissan information about the body color is applied to a special nameplate or plate. Most often it is located in the driver's door opening. Open the door and carefully inspect the pillar: you will see a sticker with a lot of technical data, including a line with a color code.
On this sign, look for a box that says Color or Paint. Next to these designations a three-digit or four-digit code should be indicated, for example, KY0. Sometimes the code can be encrypted in the format 10K-Y0 or have additional suffixes indicating the type of coating. The main thing is to find a combination of letters and numbers that matches your request.
In some models, especially older generations Teana or Maxima, the label may be located in the engine compartment. Check the center bulkhead or the inside of the hood. If you don’t find the sticker in standard places, try inspecting the luggage compartment; the label is often stuck on the inside of the trunk lid or on the end of the trunk door.
⚠️ Attention! Don't rely solely on visual color determination. Over time, the paintwork fades under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, and even a new car may appear different compared to the standard in the catalog. Always use a physical code plate KY0 as the main source of truth.
Features of the shade and the influence of the time factor
Color KY0 belongs to the class of complex metallics, where the main pigment is gray, but with the addition of white and, sometimes, a light bluish tint. This creates a “cold” silver effect, which looks especially good in bright daylight. However, under artificial lighting, such as in a garage with yellow lamps, this shade can take on a warm, almost beige tint.
Key feature of paint with code KY0 is the behavior of aluminum flakes. They should be located parallel to the surface in the varnish to reflect light as much as possible. If the dilution or drying technology is violated during repairs, the scales will stand up chaotically, and the part will look darker or “spotty” compared to the rest of the body.
We must not forget about the aging factor. A car that has been in use for 5-7 years has faded varnish. Factory paint KY0, which is now on your bumper, is no longer the same as it was on the day of purchase. If you paint a new part in a "fresh" color from the catalog, it will look too bright and clean against the faded hood or fenders. For a perfect match, the colorist will often add special additives to fresh paint to simulate fading or deliberately darken the shade.
- Yes, this is my main color
- No, I have a different color
- I don't know the exact code
- Looking for paint for renovation
The process of tinting and preparing paint
The process of selecting paint for color KY0 It starts with computer tinting. Modern database systems contain a recipe for each year of manufacture. You tell the colorist the code KY0 and the year of manufacture of the machine, and the program gives a basic mixing recipe. However, automation does not always give 100% results, so the final finishing is done manually.
The technician applies test colors to a metal plate, dries them and compares them with a sample of your car. Comparisons are made from different angles and under different lighting conditions. If the shade seems too light, add black or gray pigment. If a greenish or bluish tint is noticeable, it is corrected with appropriate additives. This stage requires high qualifications and experience.
It is important to consider the type of paint: it can be one-component enamel or two-component (with a hardener). For Nissan Most often, a two-component system is used, providing high resistance to scratches and chemical influences. The proportions of mixing paint and hardener must strictly comply with the manufacturer's instructions, otherwise the coating may not harden or quickly turn yellow.
☑️ Preparation for painting the part
At this stage the issue with varnish is also resolved. For color KY0 A clear, high refractive index varnish is usually used to highlight the depth of the metal layer. Some craftsmen use varnish with a “wet” coating effect, which makes the silver color more saturated and deep.
⚠️ Attention! When mixing paint, be sure to use a scale that is accurate to the nearest 0.1 gram. The slightest error in the dosage of black pigment can radically change the perception of color KY0 from silver to dark gray.
What is mother of pearl and is it available in KY0?
There are no pearlescent pigments in the KY0 code. This is a classic metallic shade. Mother-of-pearl is characteristic of other codes, such as Y80 or Y90, where mica pigments are used to create iridescent shimmers.
Application technology and final polishing
Applying paint KY0 requires the use of a professional spray gun with an adjustable torch. The application technology consists of several layers: primer, base (the color itself) and varnish. The base is applied in 2-3 layers. The first layer is made “dust” to create adhesion, and subsequent layers are made more saturated to cover the base.
Between layers it is necessary to maintain interlayer drying time. If you apply the next coat too early, the paint may float and the aluminum flakes will become dislodged. If left too long, adhesion between layers will deteriorate, leading to peeling in the future. The optimal drying time is usually indicated on the paint can and depends on the temperature in the paint booth.
After the varnish has dried, the surface often requires polishing. Even with perfect application, microshagreen marks or dust may become trapped in the varnish layer. Polishing evens out the surface, removes shagreen and adds color. KY0 maximum shine. The use of abrasive pastes of different grain sizes allows you to achieve a “mirror” effect.
The quality of silver paint depends 80% on surface preparation and uniform application of the base, and not just on the quality of the paint itself.
Comparison table of popular Nissan silver shades
Owners are often confused KY0 with other silver shades. For clarity, here is a comparison of the main codes used on cars Nissanso you can accurately determine your color.
| Color code | Shade name | Features of visual perception | Years of active use |
|---|---|---|---|
| KY0 | Brilliant Silver | Classic silver, neutral shade, moderate brightness | 2010–present |
| KY1 | Brilliant Silver Metallic | Darker and deeper shade, often found on older models | 2000 — 2010 |
| QAB | Super Silver | Lighter, almost white silver tone, less intense metallic | Various models |
| QAD | Liquid Silver | Light silver with a slight bluish tint, popular in Ariya | Modern models |
KY0 body care
Cars with color KY0 require regular care to maintain their presentable appearance. The silver color hides minor scratches well, but a layer of dust and traces of bird droppings or tree resin are very noticeable. Therefore, regular washing is a must.
Use special shampoos for cars with metal coating. They contain additives that help the aluminum flakes stay in the correct position and not oxidize. Avoid aggressive detergents that can damage the protective layer of varnish. After washing, be sure to apply polish or ceramic coating for UV protection.
When parking, try to avoid places where tree sap or bird droppings may fall on your car. If such contaminants do appear, remove them immediately, without waiting for them to eat into the varnish. For color KY0 It is especially important to use protective films on the front elements of the body, as they are most quickly exposed to stones and sand.
To protect KY0 color from fading, use car covers or park in the shade, as aluminum pigments lose their reflectivity over time in direct sunlight.
Frequently asked questions and answers
Can I mix KY0 paint myself at home?
Technically this is possible, but it is highly not recommended for obtaining high-quality results. Without professional equipment and experience, you will not be able to achieve the correct placement of aluminum flakes, which will result in a visible difference in shade. For minor repairs (for example, touching up a chip), you can use ready-made spray cans, but for painting parts it is better to contact professional painting centers.
What is the difference between KY0 and KY1?
The difference lies in the shade and composition of pigments. KY0 is a more modern, lighter and neutral silver color. KY1 - darker, often with a slight gray or even greenish undertone. These codes are not interchangeable and using one instead of the other will result in a distinct difference in body color.
How long does KY0 paint last?
Subject to application technology and proper care, factory paint with code KY0 retains its properties for more than 10 years. The varnish coating protects the metal pigment from oxidation. However, with aggressive use, lack of polishing and exposure to reagents, the service life can be reduced to 5-7 years before the first signs of burnout appear.
Where can I find the color code plate on a Nissan Qashqai?
On Nissan Qashqai The color code plate is most often located on the driver's side B-pillar (B-pillar). Open the front left door and look at the bottom of the pillar or the inside of the door. Look for a sticker with the inscription Color and code KY0.