Paint touch-ups are relatively easy do-it-yourself projects. You can start the process by finding the BMW paint code on your driver's side door jamb, or by searching for it using your VIN.

So you’ve noticed a ding or scratch on your BMW. Fortunately, if you just need to do a paint touch-up, the fix is relatively inexpensive and easy to do yourself. The most important part though is making sure you get the right paint color.

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Where can I find my BMW’s paint code?

The most common location to find your paint code is on the vehicle identification number (VIN) sticker on the driver's side door jamb. If you can’t find it there, check under the hood near the strut tower.

The code will usually be a three-digit number, but sometimes will have four/five digits and may be alphanumeric. The sticker will often also have the paint color written on the label in either German or English.

There are several resources online to help you decipher your paint code as well, like

this list

MORE: How long will a repainted car’s paint job last?

What if there’s no paint code on the car’s label?

There is no need to worry if you can’t find your paint code on your car, or if the label is dirty or damaged. You can also get your paint code by calling a BMW dealership and giving them your VIN.

You can

find your VIN

in a few locations:

On the VIN sticker in the door jamb or under the hood

On the front of the dashboard on the driver's side, visible through the windshield

On your insurance or registration documents.

Where can I get paint for my BMW?

There are lots of places to buy paint supplies for your BMW. You can get it through

BMW’s website

, or through several online and in-store retailers. Sourcing the products shouldn’t be an issue once you have your paint code, but remember to get everything that you need for the touch-up.

You will need:

Primer

Paint

Clearcoat

Sandpaper if you need to sand up any rust

A means of removing any grease or contaminants if necessary

A polishing compound if you want the spot to shine

If you only have a small scratch, you might be able to get away with just using a paint pen, or a small paint pack instead.

MORE:

How much does it cost to paint a car?

Paint touch-up tips

Alright. You found your paint code, you have purchased all of the required materials, you are ready to wait a few days for coats to dry, and you have come to terms with the ding that started it all. It's time to get to work.

Here are some tips to help make your paint job easier and improve the final result:

Wash the area well before you start. Soap and water at a minimum, and more heavy-duty tactics if you have a build-up of wax, grease, or other contaminants

If the area is rusted, wear the rust away with a wire brush and fine sandpaper

Apply primer to any bare metal or plastic that you plan to paint. Let the primer dry completely and gently sand the area so it is smooth and even

Paint the area. Apply multiple coats, waiting at least 20 minutes between coats. After the final coat, let it dry overnight

Add a clear coat, apply several layers, and let it dry overnight. Make sure the clear coat that you use is the same as the type used on the rest of your car—refer to your paint code to confirm the exact type.

After a few days, buff the area with a polishing compound if you want it to shine!

MORE:

How to fix peeling clearcoat

How to find cheaper car insurance

Not all accidents can be touched up as easily as a scratch. Make sure your car is well protected with the right car insurance coverage.

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What is my BMW’s paint code?

A paint code is a numeric or alphanumeric code that denotes the exact paint color used on your vehicle. You can usually find this on your VIN sticker on the driver’s side door jamb or under the hood by the strut tower.

If you can’t find it, call your local BMW dealership and give them your VIN and they should be able to search your paint code for you.

Do I need to apply a clear coat?

Yes. Without a clear coat, your paint will be sensitive to peeling and the area will rust faster. Make sure you get the right kind of clearcoat. Putting a patch of matte clear coat on a car with a high gloss clear coat will make the area stick out awkwardly.

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