Because your paint is custom-mixed to the paint code selected in checkout, we just need a little information to review the match accurately.
What We’ll Need from You
To help us evaluate the color, please provide:
Proof of your vehicle’s original paint code
A clear photo of the parts identification sticker showing the color code is perfect. A dealer invoice or other documentation that confirms the paint code also works.Photo of a test application next to your vehicle
A clear photo showing the painted test card next to your vehicle finish so that we can see the mismatch.
Why Do You Request the Two Photos about the Color Match?
These two photos help us resolve the color match issue for you. We can confirm the right paint code for your vehicle and what kind of mis-match we’re seeing. We often also ask for the year/make/model information too.
Altogether, this information helps us determine next steps. For example:
The paint code may not be the right one for your vehicle
Additional paint coats may be needed to fully develop the color (some colors, often blues, require this)
The paint applied at the vehicle manufacturer’s factory can sometimes have minor batch inconsistencies
Our technicians may identify another factor affecting the match
Our goal is to help you achieve a color match if we can or give your money back if we can't.
Why Do You Provide a Test Card in Every Kit?
It’s standard practice in automotive refinishing to perform a test application before applying paint to a vehicle. Professional body shops follow this step to confirm the color match first.
Testing on the included card helps protect your vehicle and ensures you’re confident in the match before applying paint to the repair area.
What Happens Next?
Once we review your information, we’ll let you know the best next step. In many cases, we can resolve the issue without requiring a full return.
Before Applying Paint to Your Vehicle
We recommend performing a test application on the included test card before applying paint to your vehicle.
Bottle kits: Apply thin coats of paint and a couple coats of clear coat on a square at the edge of the grey part of the card. Once dry, hold the card next to your vehicle in indirect and direct light to assess the color match.
Aerosol kits: Spray multiple coats of paint and a couple coats of clear coat on the test card. Once dry, hold the card next to your vehicle in indirect and direct light to assess the color match.
If the color does not match, contact us before applying paint to your vehicle so we can review it together.
Color Match Guarantee is limited to one refund per color per customer.
FAQ
What if I already applied the paint to my vehicle?
Do I have to use the test card before applying paint?
What if I no longer have the test card?
What if the paint code on my vehicle is the same as my order and the color doesn't match?
Does lighting affect how the color looks?
How long should I wait before evaluating the color match?
The paint in the bottle doesn't match my vehicle. Can I send that photo?
The paint in the aerosol paint cap doesn't match my vehicle. Can I send that photo?
Do I need to use primer when testing for color match?
Related Videos & Docs
Aerosol paint - How to spray a test card
This video shows the technique required to spray a test card, and a touch up repair using ScratchesHappen aerosol paint.
How We Mix Your OEM-Matched Paint
See how our color experts hand-blend your paint for a precise match to your vehicle.
Introducing Scratch Match
Scratch Match™ is a visual tool for choosing the right touch-up paint repair kit. Swipe right through real paint scratch examples to match your damage and see the recommended kit.