Duplicolor 1613 (left). OEM 1C0 (right)

 

I did a test paint sample (pictured above) to see the differences between the Millennium Silver 1C0 and the Duplicolor 1613 that is supposed to be a perfect match. Obviously it's way off. Funny thing is that the exact same Duplicolor 1613 in the touch up pen matches exactly to the OEM paint. Go figure. I asked Duplicolor directly, but all they could do is send out a couple cans of the same stuff that doesn't match.

Moving forward, has anyone used any of the online companies that make spray cans in OEM color codes? Examples would be Automotivetouchup.com and scratchwizard.net.

Just trying to find a company that can accurately match the OEM mil silver.

Thanks,

Paul

 

Don't you need to add a clearcoat to truly match the paint?

 

I did add a coat of clear (in the previously attached pic). I should've mentioned that.

Tired of waiting, I ordered a spray can from automotivetouchup.com. I'll post with an update.

 

Just out of curiosity, why is ur check engine light on on post # 13?

 

Have the same issue with millenium silver on my 2004 Lexus. Did you find a better match than was is available from DupliCoat?

 

Find a paint specialist and get them to match formula. Although getting harder to find someone that can. eg Debeer could match even faded paint. Buy some primer eg high fill ,clear etc whilst at it. You will get way better paint from a paint supplier over a retailer. I am seeing world change where experts aren't needed until you get a result like this. We can't find anyone to beat panels anymore and same is happening to paint. Two tone doors are normal for insurance companies as handing back your car only enhancing the car has been smashed.

 

Issue with paint matching has very little to do with sourcing the paint. The paint fades with light and time. Corners, sides, roof, hood do not match with each other. The fading happens gradually and there is not a sharp delineation. The eyes + mind also play tricks on the perception. I remember a science museum visit where a panel was painted with a thin cord hanging in the middle with weight. Instructions were to lift/remove the cord and as soon as I moved it, my eyes spotted difference in shades on either side of where the cord was. So if there is a separation in painted surface like the door has a gap then your eye will not decipher the shade difference.

For large surfaces the paint shop use a technique of blending. Where the new paint is gradually reduced and you cant spot the change.

One last thing about paint is that you may be able to get perfect match today, but the new and old paint may fade differently.

Salim