Nissan color code KL0: decoding, paint selection and painting nuances

If you are the owner Nissan and were faced with the need to touch up scratches or completely repaint the part, color code KL0 will become your main guide. This three-digit identifier hides not only the paint shade, but also the type of coating used by the manufacturer. However, finding accurate information on this code can be difficult - especially when it comes to older models or rare trim levels.

In this article we will look at what it means KL0 in a color code system Nissan, where exactly to look for it on the car body, and how to choose the right paint to avoid disappointment. You will also learn about common painting mistakes that can ruin the result, and receive practical advice on restoring paintwork, taking into account the characteristics of this shade.

What does Nissan color code KL0 mean?

Code KL0 refers to the palette Nissan and denotes a specific shade blue-gray metallic, which is often found on models from the early 2000s. It is important to understand that Nissan There are two color coding systems:

• 🔹 Three-digit codes (For example, KL0) - used for base colors and often duplicated in different regions.
• 🔹 Four-digit codes (For example, KL0M) - specify the type of paint (metallic, mother-of-pearl) and may differ for the same shade depending on the year of manufacture.

In the case of KL0 we're talking about light gray metallic with a barely noticeable bluish undertone. This color was popular on models such as Nissan Almera N16, Primera P12 And X-Trail T30. However, even within the same model, the shade could vary depending on the batch of paint and application technology at the factory.

Please note: code KL0 may coincide with similar codes from other manufacturers (for example, Renault or Mitsubishi), but the composition of the paint will differ. Always check your brand connection!

Where can I find the KL0 color code on a Nissan body?

The manufacturer applies the color code in several standard places. On models Nissan The most common locations are:

1. 🚗 Sign on the driver's door pillar - usually below, under the glove compartment or on the threshold. Look for the inscription Color Code: KL0 or Paint: KL0.
2. 🚗 Under the hood - on a special sticker next to the VIN code (usually on the right side).
3. 🚗 In the trunk - on the inside of the cover or under the spare wheel (relevant for X-Trail And Qashqai).

If the sticker is worn off or missing, check service book — color information is sometimes duplicated there. As a last resort, you can contact the dealer with the vehicle's VIN code for clarification.

How to choose paint according to code KL0: step-by-step instructions

Even knowing the code KL0, it’s not always possible to choose the perfect shade the first time. Here is an action algorithm that minimizes risks:

Check the code on the body with the documentation|Check the model year (colors may have changed)|Order a sample (spray or tinting card)|Compare the shade in daylight and artificial light|Check compatibility with the type of coating (metallic/pearl)-->

Pay special attention type of paint. Code KL0 may mean:

• 🔘 Basic metallic (two-layer coating: base + varnish).
• 🔘 Three-layer mother of pearl (base + pearlescent layer + varnish) - in this case, the code can be supplemented with a letter M (For example, KL0M).

For an accurate selection, use tinting systems brands such as PPG, DuPont or Mobihel. In their catalogs the code is KL0 may appear under alternative designations:

Paint brand	Analogue KL0	Coverage type
PPG	956013	Metalic
DuPont	GAN956013	Basecoat
Mobihel	NIS-KL0	Metallic + Clear
Sikkens	U350.50	Autocryl

If you plan to paint the part yourself, order sampler in a can (for example, at Motip or Kudo) and apply a test layer to an inconspicuous area. Metallic colors are highly dependent on lighting and viewing angle!

Typical mistakes when painting KL0 and how to avoid them

Color KL0 refers to “capricious” shades, where the slightest error in tinting or application technology becomes noticeable. Here are the most common mistakes:

⚠️ Attention: Never paint metallic KL0 without finishing varnish - metallic pigments oxidize in air, and after a year the color may turn green!

• 🚫 Incorrect solvent - for Nissan use original paints acrylic reducer (For example, PPG DX330). All-purpose solvents can dull the color.
• 🚫 Incorrect application technique — metallic KL0 requires wet on wet (base + varnish without drying). If you let the base dry, the varnish will “pull away” the pigments and stains will appear.
• 🚫 Ignoring the substrate - be sure to apply before painting primer-leveler (For example, 3M 5817), otherwise the metal flakes will lie unevenly.

Another critical detail - drying temperature. For KL0 It is optimal to dry the varnish at 60°C within 30 minutes. At room temperature (20°C) the varnish may remain soft and scratch quickly.

What to do if the color after painting does not match?

If the shade turns out darker or lighter, the reasons may be the following:

1. Incorrect tinting - return to the paint supplier and request a spectrophotometer correction.

2. Inconsistency of layers - metallic KL0 requires 2-3 coats of base and 2 coats of varnish. If less is applied, the color will be “empty”.

3. Old paint has faded - compare the new shade not with the body, but with internal parts (for example, under the hood), where UV radiation is minimal.

Alternative ways to restore paintwork (without full painting)

If there are scratches on KL0 shallow, you can do without full painting. Here are proven methods:

• 🔧 Polishing - for surface scratches use abrasive paste (For example, 3M 50383) with the transition from P1500 to P3000. After polishing, apply protective wax (For example, Collinite 845).
• 🔧 Touch-up pencil - will do Touch-Up Paint with code KL0 (for example, from Dr. ColorChip). Apply 2-3 coats with 15 minutes drying time between coats.
• 🔧 Screw restoration — for chips down to the ground, use a set Langka with a micro brush. Important: After drying, polish the area. silicone-free paste.

For temporary masking of scratches on KL0 can be used wax corrector (For example, Turtle Wax Scratch Repair). However, remember: this is a solution for 2-3 washes, after which the procedure must be repeated.

Where to order KL0 paint: trusted suppliers

When ordering paint by code KL0 choose suppliers who work with original recipes Nissan. Here are reliable options:

Supplier	Product type	Average price (per 1 l)	Features
PPG	Base + varnish	4 500 ₽	Exact OEM match, requires VIN tinting
Axalta (DuPont)	Finished paint	5 200 ₽	Delivers to Nissan dealers, pickup possible
Mobihel	Aerosol 400 ml	1 800 ₽	Convenient for local repairs, color close to KL0M
AutoColor	Tint card	300 ₽	To check the shade before ordering

When ordering, please specify whether you need paint taking into account fading (if the car is older than 5 years). For example, at PPG for KL0 there is an option KL0/AG — adjusted for UV radiation.

If you are in Moscow or St. Petersburg, you can contact specialized tinting centers, such as "Color Auto" or "Color Line". They provide a guarantee for color matching using a spectrophotometer.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan KL0 color

Can KL0 paint be mixed with other codes to achieve the desired shade?

Technically yes, but it's risky. For example, to lighten KL0 sometimes add up to 10% white base (code W1 at Nissan). However, this mix will not be UV resistant and may turn yellow after a year. It is better to order fading-corrected paint from professionals.

What is the difference between KL0 and KL0M?

Code KL0M denotes the same shade, but with pearlescent effect. This paint contains special pigments (for example, Mika or aluminum oxide), which create an overflow. If your car has a pearlescent sheen, use only KL0M - regular metallic will look dull.

What soil is best to use under KL0?

For metallic KL0 optimal epoxy primer (For example, PPG DP40 or Sikkens Autowave). It provides better adhesion and protects against corrosion. If you are painting plastic parts (bumpers, moldings), first apply plasticizer (For example, 3M 3950).

How many coats of varnish does KL0 require?

Minimum 2 layers, but for durability it is recommended 3. Apply the first layer thinly (the so-called “fog”), then 2 full layers with interlayer drying for 10-15 minutes. For gloss after drying, polish the varnish paste with abrasive 1000-1500 (For example, Farecla G3).

Can KL0 be painted in a garage?

Yes, but with reservations:

• 🔹 The room temperature should be 18-22°C.
• 🔹 Use professional spray gun (For example, Sata RP) with pressure 2-2.5 bar.
• 🔹 Be sure to dust the room and use sticky wipes to remove dust from the part before painting.

Without complying with these conditions, the risk of getting “shagreen” or cloudy varnish increases significantly.