BMW 3 Series Touch Up Paint (183 OEM Colors)

The Color Breakdown

BMW has officially recorded 183 colors for the 3 Series, proving that they are the undisputed kings of the "Wait, what color is that?" conversation. They really went for it with legendary icons like Techno Violet Pearl and the "look-at-me" Dakar Yellow II. However, if you're looking at your car and seeing one of the fifteen different shades of silver-like Titan Silver Metallic or Glacier Silver-don't worry. Whether your BMW is dressed in a bold individual color or a classic professional grey, it was designed to look fast even when it's parked in your driveway.

What to Watch For

Before you start, you need to find your "DNA code." On newer 3 Series models (F30 and up), check the driver's side door jamb on the black VIN sticker; look for a three-digit code like "300" or "475." If you're rocking an older classic (like an E46 or E90), pop the hood-the code is usually hiding on the strut tower (the metal hump over the front wheels) or on a sticker under the hood itself.

The 3 Series is a precision machine, but it's also a bit of a "rock chip magnet" due to its low-slung nose and iconic kidney grilles. You might also notice the paint feels a little "soft," meaning it picks up tiny scratches easily. Keep an eye on the door handles and the top of the rear bumper; these are high-traffic areas where the clear coat works the hardest and might show wear first.

Driveway Repair Tip

Since so many BMW colors-like Estoril Blue or Mineral White-rely on heavy metallic flakes or pearl effects, your best friend is the "The Shake." Shake your touch-up bottle or pen for a full 60 seconds (time it!) to wake up those sparkles so they don't all sit at the bottom. When applying, remember that BMW factory paint is applied in very thin, precise layers. You should do the same: use a tiny amount of paint to fill the chip just enough to cover the metal, rather than one big, thick drop. If the chip is deep, let it dry for 20 minutes and add a second thin layer. Patience is the secret ingredient that makes a driveway repair look like a factory finish.