1988 GMC Touch Up Paint (47 OEM Colors)

### The 1988 GMC Vibe

In 1988, GMC wasn't just selling trucks; they were selling the "Heartbeat of America" with a heavy-duty professional grade twist. Whether you were hauling a horse trailer with a Suburban, running a delivery route in a G10 Series van, or putting the then-new Sierra through its paces on a job site, these machines were built like granite. We've focused our database on the true survivors of the era-the colors that actually stood the test of time, like Bright Red, Silver Metallic, Tan, and White. These weren't just colors; they were the uniform of the American workforce.

Paint Health Check

If you're staring at an original '88, you're likely dealing with the peak of the "Peeling Era." This was the dawn of the basecoat-over-clearcoat system, and let's just say the factory was still working out the kinks. We call it "The Great Delamination." Back then, the primer and the topcoat didn't always get along, leading to a nasty habit where the clear coat would sunburn, turn chalky, and eventually flake off in sheets like a bad Saturday at the beach. If your Safari or Heavy Duty Truck still has its shine, count your lucky stars, because most of these rigs ended up with "bald" hoods and roofs where the clear simply gave up the ghost.

Restoration Tip

When you're touching up a 1988 GMC, you have to be faster than the corrosion. Because this era is prone to delamination, a tiny rock chip isn't just a cosmetic flaw-it's an entry point for moisture to get between the layers. Once that clear coat starts to lift at the edges, it's a losing battle. Therefore, you need to seal every chip immediately. Clean the area thoroughly, apply your color, and make sure you're sealing it properly before the air can get under the surrounding factory clear. If the clear is already flaking, you'll need to feather those edges down smooth before you even think about pulling the trigger on a repair, or you'll just be painting over a house of cards.