You may need custom paint mixing if off-the-shelf paint doesn’t match your vehicle’s exact color or condition.
Custom mixing is ideal when:
- Your vehicle has scratches, chips, or peeling paint
- You’re repairing collision or body damage
- Your factory paint has faded due to UV exposure
- You’re restoring or repainting a vehicle
- You need an exact OEM color match
Because paint naturally changes over time, pre-packaged colors may not blend correctly. Custom mixing ensures a closer match to your vehicle’s current finish, especially for visible panel repairs.
Factory paint codes provide the original manufacturer formula. Spectrophotometers measure your vehicle’s current paint color for a closer match when fading or previous repairs have altered the finish.
Both methods are used at participating O’Reilly Auto Color locations to improve accuracy.
While an exact match may not always be possible due to oxidation or aging, scanning technology can significantly improve blend accuracy compared to using the factory code alone.
| Method | Best For | How It Works | When to Choose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Factory Paint Code | Original, unfaded paint | Uses OEM color formula from trim plate | Vehicle paint is still close to factory condition |
| Spectrophotometer Scan | Faded, aged, or refinished paint | Digitally scans surface to analyze color | Paint has faded, oxidized, or been previously repaired |
| Combined Approach | Maximum accuracy | Uses code + scan for refinement | Larger panel or multi-panel repairs |
While an exact match may not always be possible due to oxidation or aging, scanning technology can significantly improve blend accuracy compared to using the factory code alone.
To begin the paint mixing process, bring:
- Year, make, and model
- Paint code from the vehicle’s trim plate
- A removable painted part (such as a gas door), if available
Paint codes are typically located on the driver’s door jamb, under the hood, inside the glove box, or near the VIN label. If the paint code is missing or unreadable, our team may be able to identify the original color using your VIN. Many locations can also scan your vehicle’s paint surface to create an approximated match for faded or non-factory finishes.
Common Trim and Paint Code Abbreviations
| C | Color |
|---|---|
| EXT | Exterior |
| PNT | Paint |
| TR | Trim |
Taking a photo of the trim label can help our team confirm the correct color match, especially if abbreviations or codes are unclear.
The right paint format depends on the size and visibility of your repair.
| Paint Type | Size | Best For | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touch-Up Bottle | 2 oz | Small chips & scratches | Brush application |
| Custom Aerosol Can | ~11 oz | Small panels & DIY repairs | Spray application without professional equipment |
| Pint (16 oz) | 16 oz | Single panel repairs | Spray gun application |
| Quart (32 oz) | 32 oz | Multi-panel work | Spray gun application |
| Gallon (128 oz) | 128 oz | Full vehicle repaint | Professional refinishing |
For consistent color across larger surfaces, mixing by the pint or larger is generally recommended. Aerosol Primer and Bumper Coats offer convenient spray options for small panels and DIY repairs, while Paint - Blenders, Paint - Additives, and Paint - Binders, Balancers & Stabilizers are better suited for bulk mixing and professional spray-gun applications. For small chips, Chips Guard or Paint - Activators work well with touch-up pens.
In addition to factory color matching, O’Reilly Auto Color locations can mix custom colors for restorations, fleet vehicles, or complete repaint projects.
We carry high-quality base coats, clear coats, and refinishing materials, including products from MasterPro® Refinishing and other trusted industry brands. From surface prep to final clear coat application, you can find the materials needed to complete your project professionally.
If you’re unsure which paint system is right for your repair, our parts professionals can help you choose the appropriate formulation and quantity.
An exact match may not always be possible if your vehicle’s paint has significantly faded, oxidized, or undergone previous refinishing work. Over time, UV exposure and environmental conditions can alter the original color tone.
Spot repairs may appear slightly different when applied next to aged paint, particularly on large or highly visible panels. In some cases, blending into adjacent panels may produce the best visual result. Our team can help explain realistic expectations based on your vehicle’s condition and repair size.
How many O’Reilly Auto Parts locations offer custom paint mixing?
You can find our 500+ specialized O’Reilly Auto Color locations using our store locator tool. Be sure to check the Store Services listing to confirm your local store mixes paint.
Can you match paint if I don’t know the paint code?
Yes. If the paint code isn’t available, we may be able to identify the original color using the VIN or match the existing paint using a spectrophotometer, especially for faded or aged finishes.
How much does custom car paint mixing cost?
Pricing varies based on paint type and quantity. Contact your local O’Reilly Auto Color store for availability and current pricing.
Custom paint mixing is available at over 500 specially equipped O’Reilly Auto Parts locations. Use our Store Locator and check the Store Services section to confirm availability near you.
Even if you don’t need custom paint mixed, every O’Reilly Auto Parts store carries a comprehensive selection of automotive paint, refinishing materials, and auto body repair tools to help you complete your project with confidence. Our stores offer professional-grade options, including MasterPro® Refinishing, as well as trusted brands like 3M®, Bondo®, Transtar®, U-POL®, Dupli-Color®, and Krylon®.
From surface prep to final clear coat, color sanding, buffing, and polishing, you’ll find everything you need: sandpaper, masking tape, primers, body fillers, spot putty, and clear coats — available in-store or online. Get the right color. Get the right match. Get it done with confidence at O’Reilly Auto Parts.