Ford Uh Paint Code – Restore Your Tuxedo Black Finish Like A Pro
The Ford UH paint code identifies the iconic Tuxedo Black Metallic finish, a color famous for its deep depth and sparkling metallic flakes. This comprehensive guide covers everything from locating the code on your vehicle to performing seamless DIY repairs that blend perfectly with your original factory paint.
We all know the frustration of finding a fresh rock chip on your hood or a door ding from a crowded parking lot. It feels like a direct hit to your pride and joy, especially when the paint is as beautiful as Tuxedo Black.
The good news is that you don’t need to spend hundreds at a body shop for minor imperfections. By the end of this guide, you will know exactly how to use the ford uh paint code to bring back that showroom shine in your own driveway.
I have spent years helping DIYers navigate the world of automotive finishes and metallic blends. Let’s walk through the process of identifying, sourcing, and applying this specific Ford color safely and effectively.
What Exactly is the ford uh paint code?
The ford uh paint code refers to a specific color formulation known commercially as Tuxedo Black Metallic. Introduced around 2010, this color became a staple for Ford’s truck and SUV lineup, including the F-150 and Explorer.
Unlike a standard “flat” black, UH is a multi-stage metallic finish. It contains microscopic glass flakes or aluminum particles that catch the light, giving the car a “twinkling” effect in direct sunlight.
Because of these metallic elements, matching the color isn’t just about the black pigment. You also have to consider the density and size of the flakes, which is why using the exact OEM code is critical.
The History of Tuxedo Black
Tuxedo Black replaced the older “Ebony Black” on many models to provide a more premium, luxury feel. It was briefly unavailable during the 2011-2012 production years due to a pigment shortage following a natural disaster in Japan.
This shortage made the color even more desirable among enthusiasts. Today, it remains one of the most requested colors for touch-up kits and partial resprays because of its timeless look.
If your vehicle was manufactured between 2010 and 2016, there is a very high probability that your black Ford features this specific metallic flake. Always verify before purchasing supplies.
Where to Find the Paint Code on Your Ford Vehicle
Locating the ford uh paint code is the first step toward a successful repair. Ford makes this relatively easy by placing a Safety Compliance Certification Label on every vehicle produced.
Open your driver’s side door and look at the door jamb or the pillar where the door latches. You will see a large sticker with various barcodes, weight ratings, and technical specifications.
Look at the bottom of the sticker for a row of two-digit codes. You are looking for the letters “EXT PNT,” which stands for Exterior Paint. Directly below or next to that label, you should see the letters “UH.”
Alternative Ways to Verify Your Code
If the sticker is missing or illegible, you can use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Call a local Ford dealership parts department and provide them with your VIN.
They can pull up the “build sheet” for your specific truck or car. This will confirm the exact paint name and code used the day it rolled off the assembly line.
You can also use online VIN decoders, though dealership databases are generally more reliable for paint matching. Ensure you have the 17-digit VIN handy before you start searching.
Essential Supplies for a Professional Repair
To get a high-quality result with the ford uh paint code, you need more than just a bottle of paint. Using the right tools prevents the “blob” look that ruins many DIY projects.
Start with a high-quality wax and grease remover. This ensures the new paint sticks to the metal or plastic rather than sitting on top of old car wax or road grime.
You will also need a variety of abrasives. I recommend having 2000-grit and 3000-grit wet/dry sandpaper on hand to level the repair once the paint has dried and cured.
- Touch-up Pen or Bottle: Best for tiny rock chips.
- Aerosol Spray: Best for larger scratches or mirror caps.
- 2K Clear Coat: Provides the UV protection and gloss.
- Tack Cloth: Removes dust particles right before painting.
- Micro-applicator Brushes: Much better than the bulky brushes included in cheap kits.
Choosing the Right Paint Format
If you are fixing a chip smaller than a pencil eraser, a touch-up pen is your best friend. These pens usually have a pressurized tip that allows for precise paint delivery.
For long scratches or “key” marks, a small bottle with a micro-brush offers more control. You can “flow” the paint into the scratch rather than dabbing it on.
If you are painting a larger area, like a door handle or a small trim piece, an aerosol can is necessary. Make sure to buy a “color-matched” can that specifically lists the UH code.
Mastering the ford uh paint code
The secret to a perfect repair is patience and preparation. Most people rush the process and end up with a repair that looks worse than the original scratch.
Start by cleaning the area thoroughly with soap and water. Once dry, use your wax and grease remover to strip the area. This step is non-negotiable for long-term adhesion.
If the scratch has reached bare metal, you must apply a tiny amount of automotive primer. This prevents rust from forming under your new paint and helps the black pigment stick.
The Application Process
- Shake the Paint: Metallic paints like UH require at least two minutes of vigorous shaking to distribute the metallic flakes evenly.
- Apply Thin Layers: Do not try to fill the scratch in one go. Apply a thin layer, let it dry for 20 minutes, and repeat until the paint is level with the surrounding area.
- Mind the Temperature: Only paint when the surface is between 60°F and 80°F. High humidity will cause the metallic flakes to “clump” and look gray.
- Clear Coat: Once the base coat is dry (usually 30-60 minutes), apply the clear coat. This provides the shine and protects the metallic flake from oxidizing.
After the clear coat has cured for at least 24 to 48 hours, you can begin the leveling process. Use 3000-grit sandpaper soaked in water to gently sand the repair until it is flush with the original paint.
Finally, use a high-quality rubbing compound and a microfiber towel to buff out the sanding marks. This will restore the gloss and make the ford uh paint code repair virtually invisible.
Common Challenges with Metallic Black Finishes
Tuxedo Black is a beautiful color, but it can be finicky for beginners. The biggest challenge is “flake orientation,” which refers to how the metallic particles lay down in the paint.
If you apply the paint too thick, the flakes will sink to the bottom. This makes the repair look like a flat black spot rather than a metallic one.
If you apply it too thin or in very dry conditions, the flakes might stand on end. This creates a “fuzzy” or textured appearance that doesn’t match the smooth factory finish.
Dealing with “Orange Peel”
Orange peel is a texture that looks like the skin of an orange. It often happens when using aerosol cans if the paint isn’t flowing out smoothly.
If you notice this texture, don’t panic. You can usually sand it flat with your 2000-grit sandpaper once the clear coat is fully cured and hardened.
The key is to use light pressure. You are trying to shave off the “peaks” of the texture without sanding through the clear coat into the base color.
Maintaining Your Tuxedo Black Metallic Finish
Once you have successfully used the ford uh paint code to fix your blemishes, you need to protect your hard work. Black metallic paint shows every swirl mark and fine scratch.
Always use the “two-bucket” wash method to prevent dragging dirt across the surface. Use a dedicated microfiber wash mitt and a high-lubricity car soap.
I highly recommend applying a ceramic coating or a high-quality synthetic sealant. These products provide a hard sacrificial layer that resists the rock chips that caused the problem in the first place.
Avoiding Automatic Car Washes
If you want your Tuxedo Black to stay looking deep and “inky,” stay away from automatic brush washes. Those “soft touch” brushes are often filled with grit from the muddy truck that went through before you.
These brushes will create “spiderweb” scratches that dull the metallic sparkle of the UH paint. Stick to hand washing or touchless washes whenever possible.
A little extra effort in your washing routine will save you hours of polishing and touch-up work down the road. Your Ford’s resale value will thank you for it.
Frequently Asked Questions About ford uh paint code
Is Tuxedo Black (UH) the same as Shadow Black (G1)?
No, they are very different. While both are black, UH is a metallic finish with heavy flake, while G1 is a “non-metallic” or “flat” black. They will not match if swapped.
Can I use a generic black touch-up paint?
You should avoid generic paints. Matching the ford uh paint code requires the specific metallic flake mix found in OEM-style formulations for a seamless repair.
How long does the touch-up paint take to dry?
It is usually dry to the touch in 20-30 minutes. However, it takes at least 24 hours to cure enough for sanding and 30 days before you should apply a heavy wax.
Do I really need a clear coat?
Yes. The base color of the UH code is “matte” once it dries. The clear coat is what provides the gloss and protects the metallic particles from the elements.
What if my repair looks too dark?
This usually happens if the paint was applied too thick or if it wasn’t shaken enough. Metallic flakes need to stay near the surface to reflect light and brighten the color.
Taking Action on Your Paint Repair
Fixing your car’s finish might feel intimidating, but it is one of the most rewarding DIY tasks you can perform. Taking the time to correctly identify the ford uh paint code is half the battle.
Remember to work in a shaded, dust-free environment and never rush the drying times. Automotive paint relies on chemical bonds that need time to form correctly for a durable finish.
Whether you are prepping an off-roader for a show or just cleaning up your daily driver, Tuxedo Black Metallic is a color worth saving. Grab your supplies, take a deep breath, and start small.
With a steady hand and the right technique, your Ford will be back to looking its best in no time. Stay safe, be patient, and enjoy the process of restoring your ride!
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