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Imagine taking your Toyota Tacoma into the dealer for a routine oil change, and when you go to pick it up, the service advisor tells you the service tech dented your door.
Now, they have to keep the truck for a week, while their body shop first fixes the dent and then repaints the entire door.
When you go to pick it up this time, the sun is shining and you don’t notice that the door color doesn’t match.
When you look at it from a different perspective, after that afternoon, you notice the problem.
“Why can’t they do it right? “you mutter to yourself in frustration.
Now, it’s back to the dealer to get it fixed.
Jacob Diaz shares his details of the ordeal on the 4th Gen 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owners Facebook page.
He says,
Has anyone with Underground paint had anything repainted? If so, how did it turn out? My dealer repainted my door because it had been damaged by service before we finalized the deal over the phone, and I only found out when I arrived.
The Toyota dealer is three hours away, but it was a great deal and one of the only 2024 TRD Pro Premiums in my area.
They offered to repaint it, but I didn’t want to drive another 3+ hours back, so I negotiated a $1,200 discount instead.
It was a dealer loaner truck with 2,000 miles, so it was technically not brand new.
I’ve been getting quotes in the $300-$500 range. I am looking to get it done soon, but I’m nervous that it will still not match. I can’t tell at night, but with the flash on and in the sun, it is obvious. This pic is with flash (I know it’s dirty).
Is anyone based in AZ who knows any reputable shops, or should I try a different dealer? Appreciate any feedback.
Are there problems with dealers trying to match the Underground paint color?
Based on my research, some Reddit users are reporting difficulties matching the “Underground” paint color, especially when doing touch-ups or repairs.
Here’s why this might be the case:
- Sophisticated Color: “Underground” is often described as a dark gray or metallic gray, and metallic paints in particular can be harder to match due to their complex composition and the way they reflect light.
- Paint Formulation and Application: Factors like the specific pigments used, the basecoat, the clearcoat, and even the application technique (e.g., pressure, blending) can all influence the final appearance and make it challenging to perfectly replicate the original finish, according to Minnetonka Collision Center.
- Variations in Production: Even with the same color code, slight variations can occur between different batches of paint, making it challenging to achieve a seamless match when repainting a portion of a vehicle.
- Aging and Environmental Factors: Over time, paint can change slightly due to sun exposure, oxidation, or environmental conditions, further complicating touch-ups and repairs, according to Paint Denver.
Tips for Dealing with Paint Matching Issues.
Seek Out Experienced Professionals: When dealing with paint repairs, especially for complex colors like “Underground”, it’s crucial to choose a reputable body shop with experienced painters who specialize in color matching and blending techniques, notes Minnetonka Collision Center.
Discuss Blending Techniques: Ensure the repair shop understands and utilizes proper blending techniques to seamlessly integrate new paint with the existing finish.
Consider Paint Protection Film (PPF) or Ceramic Coating: Some “Underground” owners have reported the paint being relatively soft and susceptible to chips and scratches. Applying PPF or a ceramic coating can help protect the finish and potentially reduce the need for paint repairs in the future, according to users on Reddit.
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In summary, while the “Underground” paint color is popular, its complexity can pose challenges for dealerships and body shops trying to achieve a perfect match during repairs or touch-ups.
The Toyota Tacoma “Underground” paint color, while appreciated by some for its appearance, has reportedly presented issues with matching during repairs and showing imperfections.
Here are some of the reported challenges:
- Susceptibility to scratches and swirl marks: Some owners have reported that the Underground paint is prone to showing scratches and swirl marks, which may be due to shipping wraps or the paint’s inherent characteristics.
- Difficulty in color matching: Some users have reported problems when attempting paint repairs or touch-ups, with one person even ending up with a two-tone truck after a dealer repair attempt.
- Softness and susceptibility to damage: Many Reddit users describe the Underground paint color as being prone to chipping, scratches, and swirl marks, according to Reddit comments. Some theorize that this might be due to the flat nature of the paint, which could make imperfections more noticeable, says a Reddit user.
This observation is further supported by an automotive detailing professional stating that new Toyota paint, including the Underground color, is considered some of the “softest” on the market.
General concerns about paint quality: There have been broader discussions about paint quality issues on recent Tacoma models, including the Underground color. Some owners believe the clear coat might be thin, potentially leading to blistering and peeling over time, similar to problems seen with older models like the Super White Tacomas.
Dealer responses and repair options.
While some dealers have reportedly made attempts to address paint issues, the effectiveness and consistency of these efforts seem to vary. Some owners have successfully had their paint issues fixed under warranty or customer support programs. However, others have encountered denials or unsuccessful repair attempts.
Key considerations
Documentation is key: If you’re encountering paint issues, it’s crucial to document them thoroughly with photos and dates, and communicate consistently with the dealer or Toyota corporate.
Ceramic coating as a preventative measure: Applying a ceramic coating might help protect the paint and reduce the appearance of swirl marks, although it’s not a guaranteed solution.
Considering PPF (Paint Protection Film) or other protective measures: For proactive protection, particularly against rock chips, considering wider mud flaps, running boards, or PPF might be worthwhile, according to Reddit users.
It’s important to note that not all Toyota paints are equally susceptible, and not all Toyota paint colors have the same issues.
Conclusion:
The experience of Jacob Diaz’s 2024 Toyota Tacoma highlights a frustrating reality: achieving a perfect color match in automotive paint can be surprisingly tricky, even for dealerships.
While we can’t definitively say there’s a specific “problem” with Toyota’s Underground paint color based on one incident, several factors can contribute to mismatched paint.
These include variations in paint batches, the skill of the painter, the type of lighting used during the repair, and even how the paint is applied (e.g., thickness of coats).
For vehicle owners, this often means an inconvenient and time-consuming back-and-forth with the service center until the repair meets their expectations.
How About You?
Do you own a Toyota Tacoma with the Underground paint color? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.
Check out my 2025 Toyota Tacoma story: And So It Begins, I Picked up My 2025 Toyota Tacoma Yesterday, It Has 30 Miles On It, and It’s About to Be Torn Apart
I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram
Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Jacob Diaz
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Source: torquenews.com
