What Is a Tri-Coat Color?

Two paint layers from a tri-coat system — L1 (base color) and L2 (mid-coat). Each layer works together to create the full factory color match.

Section 1: Understanding Tri-Coat Paint

A tri-coat paint finish uses three layers that work together to create the depth and light response seen in pearl and metallic finishes:

Base Coat (L1) — the main color foundation.
Mid-Coat (L2) — a more translucent color layer that adjusts tone and often adds metallic or ceramic flakes for metallic or pearl finishes.
Clear Coat — the final clear layer that seals and protects as well as providing the matching finish, usually glossy, sometimes matte for certain colors.

Each layer is designed to bond to the next, so when applied in order, your result will blend seamlessly with your vehicle’s original finish.

If your color happens to be tri-coat, your paint order already includes the L1 and L2 paint that you need. Each paint layer is clearly labeled in order of application, so just follow the instructions for a smooth, factory-grade finish.

Most vehicle colors are not tri-coat; they use only a base color and clear coat. Tri-coat systems appear more often on pearl whites, bright reds, and select metallics — colors designed to reflect and refract light for extra depth and shimmer.

Section 2: Why Some Colors Are Tri-Coat

Automakers use tri-coat finishes on specific factory colors to create subtle visual depth — the way pearl whites glow or metallic reds seem to shift in sunlight. They’re applied the same way as any other color — just with two color layers instead of one to fine-tune how light interacts with the finish.

Tri-coat systems:

Capture pearl or metallic highlights that change gently with angle and light.
Deliver greater color depth and a premium, “showroom” appearance.
Are fully supported by your ScratchesHappen paint kit and step-by-step guide.

Watch: Tri-Coat Paints Explained

See our technician explain the base (L1) and mid-coat (L2) layers in our kits.

How to Tell If Your Paint Kit Is Tri-Coat

You’ll know your color is tri-coat if your kit includes two separate color paints:

Examples: Bottle kit (left) and Aerosol kit (right). Each includes two labeled paints — L1 for the base coat and L2 for the mid-coat, which together create a true factory color match.

Label	Purpose	Step
L1 – Base Coat	The solid foundation color	Apply first - several coats
L2 – Mid-Coat	A translucent tint layer that adds depth and tone	Apply second - several coats
Clear Coat	Seals and protects the color, providing the final surface finish — glossy or matte, depending on your paint formula	Apply last - 2 to 3 coats

FAQs

How can I tell if my paint is a tri-coat?

Your order details or can labels will indicate this. If you see two colors labeled L1 (base) and L2 (mid), your paint is tri-coat. If there’s just one color, it’s a standard paint formula in one paint bottle.

Is tri-coat paint harder to apply?

Not at all. The process is the same — just with an additional color layer. When you follow the instructions, your repair will blend smoothly and match the original finish.

Why do automakers use tri-coat paint?

Tri-coats let manufacturers create finishes with extra depth and brilliance — especially for pearl and metallic colors. The mid-coat layer helps light reflect across the surface.

Related Help Docs & Videos

Learn what comes next — from applying your tri-coat mid-layer to getting a flawless, factory-matched finish.

How to Apply a Tri-Coat (L2 Mid-Coat)

Step-by-step instructions for applying your L1 base color and L2 mid-coat layers before clear coat, using either bottle or aerosol kits.

Unboxing ScratchesHappen Paint Kits

See what’s inside each kit. If your color is a tri-coat, your package will include L1 and L2 paints.

Control (or drop) Coat Explained for Tri-Coat L2 (Video)

Watch our technician demonstrate spraying layer 2 of a tri-coat.