How to Find Harley Davidson Paint Codes Easily

Key Highlights

• It is important to find your Harley Davidson paint code for touch-ups or repainting.
• Knowing your Harley's model and year helps you get the right paint code.
• You can usually find the paint code on the frame, neck, or fender.
• ColorRite is a good place to get OEM-matched Harley Davidson paint.
• If you can’t find the code, a Harley dealership can help you using your VIN.

To get the right Harley Davidson paint, knowing the color name is not enough. This is very important for well-known colors like Vivid Black. If you have a small scratch or need to repaint your bike, this guide will help you find your Harley paint code. By following these steps, you can achieve a great and lasting finish.

Understanding Your Harley Davidson Model

Before you look for your Harley Davidson paint code, you should know that this code is connected to your motorcycle model and the year it was built. Having this information ready will help you find what you need more easily.

Finding a needle in a haystack is very hard, especially if you don’t know what the needle looks like. Knowing the model and year of your Harley is like knowing what type of needle to look for. It makes finding it much easier.

Identifying Your Model and Year

To begin, locate your Harley Davidson's VIN. VIN stands for Vehicle Identification Number. This unique 17-character code acts like your motorcycle's fingerprint. You can often find it on the steering head of the frame. Look closely, especially when you turn the handlebars to the left. In some models, it might also be found on a sticker on the right side of the frame.

Once you have the VIN, checking the model and year of your Harley is easy. You can find many online VIN decoders by searching quickly. You can also reach out to your local Harley dealership. They can provide this information fast using your VIN.

Importance of Knowing Your Exact Model for Paint Matching

Having the right model and year details is very important. Harley Davidson, like other brands, uses different paint codes for colors that look the same but really are not.

For example, one shade of red may look the same to you. But, it can be a little different depending on the model and the year. This can happen because of a small change in the color mix or by adding a pearl or metallic finish.

If you choose the wrong paint code, your finish might not match. This mismatch will be very noticeable on your favorite Harley. That's why knowing the exact model and year is not just helpful; it’s needed to get the right paint match.

Locating the Paint Code on Your Harley

Once you know the model and year of your Harley, you can find the paint code. The paint code is very important. It shows you the exact paint formula used on your motorcycle.

Now that you have the model and year, you are nearer to finding the right option for touch-ups or a complete repaint.

Common Locations for Paint Codes on Harley Davidson Motorcycles

Harley Davidson often places the paint code on a small sticker or label. You can look for it in these spots:

• Steering Head: Check the steering head of the frame, usually found on the right side.
• Frame Down Tube: Look at the down tube on the frame, close to the neck.
• Front Fender: Examine under the front fender, towards the back.
• Battery Box: For some models, the battery box may be inside or located on the outside.

These labels usually have the word "PAINT" or "COLOR" next to a code with letters and numbers. If you look at some models, especially CVO (Custom Vehicle Operations) editions, you may find different codes for the various paint designs used on the motorcycle.

Tips for Reading the Paint Code Label Correctly

When you see the paint code label, remember these key points to help you identify it correctly:

• Clean the Area: Keep the label neat and free from dirt. This helps you see better.
• Use Adequate Lighting: Good lighting is key for reading any faint or small text.
• Note All Codes: Write down all the codes you find, especially for CVO models with many color choices.
• Verify with HD or PPG: After getting the code, check it with your local Harley dealer or a PPG paint distributor. They can confirm if the code is right for your model and year.

Conclusion

Harley Davidson paint codes are key for matching colors right. Knowing the model and year of your bike helps you find the paint code you need. A good match is important for touch-ups or custom work. You can find the paint code label in several spots on your Harley Davidson. If you feel unsure, get help from a pro. Sharing this useful info on social media can help other Harley fans keep their bikes looking real. Keep riding with the right paint color matches!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I verify the accuracy of a Harley Davidson paint code?

To find the information you need, contact your local Harley Davidson dealership or a PPG paint distributor. Provide them with the code and your motorcycle's year, make, and model. They will verify if it is correct and provide you with the correct color name.

What if my Harley Davidson doesn’t have a paint code label?

If you can't find the label, it’s fine! You can visit your local Harley Davidson dealership. They will use your VIN to get the factory paint code. They can also help you find the right paint that matches.

Can I use the VIN to find my Harley paint code?

The VIN does not show the paint code. But you can use your VIN at your local Harley Davidson dealership. They can find out specific details about your motorcycle. This includes the name of the factory color and the PPG paint code.

How do I match aftermarket paints to original Harley colors?

Finding the right paint for your motorcycle takes time and care. Look for trusted brands that make motorcycle paints. They should offer a lot of colors, including ones that match the original Harley Davidson colors, like Vivid Black and various pearl finishes. If you provide the manufacturer's your Harley's paint code, it can help you find the perfect match.