Paint codes are an important part of identifying and matching automotive paint colors. Each manufacturer has their own system of paint codes that allows you to pinpoint exactly which color is used on a specific vehicle. Paint code 805K is a Kia paint color that helps owners and body shops identify the correct color when repairing or repainting a vehicle. In this article, we’ll take a close look at paint code 805K, including details on the color and the Kia models that use this paint. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Paint Code 805K?
Paint code 805K is a specific color used by Kia on some of their vehicle models. The code itself is a combination of numbers and letters that identifies this particular paint color in Kia’s lineup. The 805 references the color, while the K indicates that it is a Kia factory color. Each automotive manufacturer has their own system of codes used to accurately match colors across their vehicle models.
For Kia, the paint code not only identifies the color, but also contains details on the type of paint, the finish, and where on the vehicle it is used. This allows for precise color matching during repairs or repainting. The 805K code provides all the necessary information to correctly identify this color and match it on a Kia vehicle.
Paint Code 805K Color
So what color does the 805K paint code represent? On Kia vehicles, this code corresponds to a gray paint color called Modern Gray. It is a neutral gray tone that leans slightly cool in appearance. The gray has a very subtle hint of blue that gives it a modern, sophisticated look.
However, paint colors can often look slightly different depending on the type of lighting and angle you view them from. The Modern Gray paint with code 805K may lean a bit more blue/green or warm gray in some conditions. Overall, it is best described as a contemporary, stylish gray that works well on Kia vehicle models.
Paint Type for Code 805K
In addition to identifying the color, Kia paint codes also specify details on the type of paint used. For 805K, the paint is a glossy base coat/clear coat system. This two-step paint process provides a deep, vibrant color and a glossy, protective clear coat finish.
The base coat provides coverage and contains the pigments that give the paint its gray color. Multiple coats are applied to achieve an even, consistent tone. After the colored base coat is sprayed on, the clear coat is then applied on top. The clear coat helps the base color retain its depth and richness while also creating a glossy, smooth finish.
This base coat/clear coat system is commonly used today by automotive manufacturers because it provides an attractive, durable finish. The 805K Modern Gray paint uses this process to achieve its optimal appearance and protection on Kia vehicles.
Paint Finish for 805K
In addition to the type of paint, Kia’s color codes also indicate the paint finish or shine level. The 805K paint code specifies that the Modern Gray color has a gloss finish. This means the painted surfaces have a shiny, reflective quality.
The clear coat on top of the base gray paint provides the high-gloss effect. This glossy clear coat helps the 805K color pop with a wet, sleek style. It also adds to the modern, premium look of the gray tone.
A gloss finish is the most common paint finish used on modern vehicles from all manufacturers. It provides appealing shine while also being durable enough for exterior surfaces. Kia utilizes a gloss finish for all their current model paint colors, including the Modern Gray 805K code.
Kia Models With Paint Code 805K
Kia’s 805K Modern Gray paint color is not found on all models. The manufacturer only uses this particular gray tone on specific vehicles in their lineup. Paint codes allow for easy identification of which models feature a certain color from the factory.
According to Kia’s paint code system, the following models use the Modern Gray Metallic paint with code 805K:
– Kia Rio from 2012-2017 model years
– Kia Optima from 2015-2017 model years
– Kia Sportage from 2016-2018 model years
The 805K color was originally introduced on these models during model year updates when Kia expanded their color selection. It provided owners a new, stylish gray color option on popular vehicle lines like the Sportage SUV.
These years and models are the primary vehicles that left the factory sprayed with the Modern Gray paint code 805K. However, the color could potentially be found on other Kia models that were later repainted this original factory color. The 805K code clearly identifies the specific gray for accurate matching.
Identifying Paint Code 805K on a Kia
On Kia models that are factory-painted with the 805K Modern Gray color, there are a few locations where you can find the specific paint code identified:
– Paint or body tag – Check the tag located on the driver’s side door jamb. The paint code is listed along with other details like the VIN.
– Under the hood – Explore the underside of the hood near the front latch. A color sticker often identifies the paint code.
– Door sticker – Look for the certification sticker on the driver’s door. The paint code may be found on this label.
– Glove box – Check paperwork inside the glove box. The paint code is sometimes noted on the vehicle’s documents.
These locations provide the quickest way to identify paint code 805K on a Kia. The code will be clearly printed along with other numbers and details relating to that specific vehicle’s paintwork. This allows for simple confirmation of the factory color.
Use of Paint Code 805K
For Kia owners and body shops, knowing the exact paint code is very important when it comes time for repairs or repainting. The color needs to be accurately matched to maintain consistency across the entire vehicle. The 805K code eliminates guesswork and ensures the Modern Gray tone can be precisely replicated.
Paint code 805K assists owners in these situations:
– Touch up paint – Finding the right match for stone chips and scratches
– Panel repainting – Matching the original color after collision repairs
– Full respray – Identifying the proper gray for a complete repaint
The code is also useful for Kia enthusiasts who may want to return their vehicle to its original factory color. Whether it is needed for small touch ups or a full restoration, paint code 805K provides simple and accurate Modern Gray color identification.
Matching Paint Code 805K
While the Kia paint code points you to the correct color, additional steps are needed to match the original factory finish:
| Basecoat color formula | Kia Modern Gray basecoat formula is required to match pigment and tone |
| Spray out sample | Spray test card needs to be checked in various lights |
| Adjust if needed | Fine tune color match by adding toner |
| Check fit | Verify color matches adjacent panels for uniformity |
| Top coat | Apply clear coat to sample to achieve correct gloss |
Professional painters have access to paint formulas and equipment to accurately match OEM colors. They start with the factory color formula based on the 805K code, adjusting if needed while spraying sample test panels. This achieves a precise color uniformity and gloss level.
Availability of Paint Code 805K
Since the Modern Gray color with paint code 805K was only used on certain model year vehicles, it can be difficult to find touch up paint available. Manufacturers like Kia only produce small batches of touch up pens or paint for more common colors.
A few options to find the right 805K gray touch up paint include:
– Contact the Kia dealer – They may have old stock or access to obscure colors
– Check automotive paint suppliers – Larger suppliers may be able to custom mix the formula
– Search online – Websites may have old stock of obscure color touch up paint
– Use an alternate gray – Choose a close silver or gray that matches under most lighting
For body shops completing repaints, obtaining the proper 805K paint is easier, as most paint distributors can accurately mix the formulas. But the discontinued use makes touch up pens hard to find.
Modern Gray Color Popularity
Gray has become an increasingly popular automotive color over the last 10-15 years. What was once considered a boring or dated shade has evolved into a top color choice. Modern grays have a stylish, sleek look that appeals to many buyers.
The following statistics help illustrate the growing popularity of gray auto paint colors:
– Grays have ranked in the top 5 most popular colors since 2014
– 25% of vehicles worldwide are painted gray
– Gray trails only white and black in popularity
– Luxury brands like Audi and BMW use primarily grays/silvers
Kia joined this trend by adding Modern Gray with paint code 805K to their color lineup starting around 2012. For buyers preferring gray, it provided a fresh alternative to the common white, black, and silver options. The stylish 805K gray proved popular on Kia models before being phased out by 2018.
Conclusion
In summary, Kia paint code 805K identifies a specific modern gray color called Modern Gray Metallic. It is a cool-toned, sophisticated gray that was used on select Kia models from 2012-2018. The 805K paint code points to important details like the paint type, finish, and vehicles it was used on from the factory. This allows for easy, accurate identification of the color for repairs or touch ups. Modern grays like the 805K continue to be popular paint choices for their sleek, contemporary style. By understanding Kia color codes, owners and body shops can confidently match the original factory gray.
