Ford Light Pickup Paint Info
The Color Breakdown
Ford certainly didn't hold back when it came to dressing up their light pickups. With 48 recorded colors, they covered the entire spectrum from "workhorse chic" to "weekend warrior." We're talking about everything from the vibrantly named Candyapple Red and the very-70s Medium Bittersweet Metallic to the sophisticated Wedgewood Blue. Whether your truck is finished in a rugged Dark Pine Metallic or a classic Oxford White, Ford gave these pickups a palette that really let them stand out in the parking lot-or the pasture.
What to Watch For
Before you start dabbing, you need to find your "EXT PNT" code. Open your driver's side door and look at the jamb or the door edge for a rectangular sticker; you're looking for a two-character code right next to that "EXT PNT" label. Now, a quick reality check: Ford trucks of a certain vintage are famous for "sunburn" on the hood and roof, where the clear coat starts to flake off like a bad tan. You might also notice some small bubbles near the edges of the hood-especially on newer models with aluminum panels. These spots are totally manageable, but they do require a little extra patience to ensure your touch-up sticks for the long haul.
Driveway Repair Tip
When you're using a touch-up pen or brush on these classic Ford metallics-like Silver Metallic or Midnight Blue-you have to be the human equivalent of a paint mixer. Shake that bottle for at least 60 seconds longer than you think is necessary to wake up those metallic flakes so they don't all huddle at the bottom. When you apply the paint, think "thin and steady." Instead of one giant glob that looks like a grape, apply two or three paper-thin layers. This gives the pigments room to breathe and ensures your Dark Caramel looks like a factory finish rather than a kitchen spill.