BMW paint codes
On a BMW, the factory paint code is printed on the paint plate in the engine bay (strut tower) or driver's door jamb, depending on the model — a three-character code like 300 or C1M. It identifies the exact color the car was born with — a respray never changes it. 16 documented colors below with their codes and finishes; swatches are representative.
Alpine White
solid paint
Jet Black
solid paint
Black Sapphire Metallic
metallic paint
Titanium Silver Metallic
metallic paint
Space Grey Metallic
metallic paint
Glacier Silver Metallic
metallic paint
Mineral White Metallic
metallic paint
Carbon Black Metallic
metallic paint
Melbourne Red Metallic
metallic paint
Mineral Grey Metallic
metallic paint
Estoril Blue Metallic
metallic paint
Mediterranean Blue Metallic
metallic paint
Phytonic Blue Metallic
metallic paint
Portimao Blue Metallic
metallic paint
Tanzanite Blue II Metallic
metallic paint
Brooklyn Grey Metallic
metallic paint
What color was YOUR BMW born? The build sheet shows the factory paint for any VIN.
The CarWhere build sheet decodes any BMW VIN into its full factory record — every option code, the original paint, trim and equipment, as built. $9.99, instant.
Codes and color names are BMW's published designations; availability varies by model and year, and this list covers the most commonly looked-up colors — can't find yours? The VIN build sheet names it exactly. Independent reference — not affiliated with BMW AG.