Where is the paint code on a BMW?

Paint sticker under the bonnet or on the B-pillar. Three characters: digits on older cars (300 Alpine White, 475 Black Sapphire), letters and digits on newer ones (A96 Mineral White, C3Z).

Step by step

1. Open the bonnet and look on the front strut tower, the inner wing or the front cross member for a sticker with the paint code.
2. On many newer models the label is on the driver's or passenger's B-pillar instead.
3. The code may be printed next to Lack/Paint with the colour name.

Special-order BMW Individual colours may carry a generic code such as 490; the exact colour then needs a VIN lookup at a dealer.

No label?

Labels fade or go missing after repairs. A BMW dealer can read the original colour from the VIN, and the service booklet often lists it. If the car has been resprayed, have a painted part (the fuel filler flap is ideal) scanned at a paint shop.