The BMW i8, a hybrid sports car known for its futuristic design and eye-catching colors, boasts several stunning blue hues. Pinpointing the exact color code can be tricky, as BMW often uses descriptive names rather than standardized color codes, and variations exist across model years and paint types. This guide will delve into the different shades of blue available for the BMW i8, helping you identify the specific code you need, whether for touch-ups, restoration, or simply satisfying your curiosity.
What are the different blue colors available for the BMW i8?
BMW doesn't publicly list every color code for every model year. The official names and codes are usually found in internal BMW documentation and dealer systems. However, several distinct blue shades were offered on the i8, and enthusiast communities have identified some. These often vary depending on the paint's finish (metallic, matte, etc.). Examples include variations described as:
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Electric Blue Metallic: This is probably the most commonly associated blue with the i8. It’s a vibrant, deep blue with a noticeable metallic flake. Unfortunately, without access to the BMW paint code database, obtaining the precise numerical code remains a challenge.
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Other Blue Shades: BMW may have offered other, less common blue shades as special editions or regional options. These are difficult to identify definitively without visual confirmation and potentially through contacting a BMW dealership with specific production details of the car in question.
How can I find the exact color code for my BMW i8’s blue paint?
This is the most crucial question, and the answer requires a multi-pronged approach:
1. Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Your BMW i8’s VIN contains critical information, including the paint code. You can typically find this code on a sticker located in the driver's side doorjamb, or within the car's documentation. The paint code is usually a short alphanumeric string. While this gives you the code, it doesn't necessarily translate to a universally recognized standard paint code system.
2. Consult a BMW Dealership
The most reliable method is contacting your local BMW dealership or service center. Provide them with your VIN; they can access the official BMW database to identify the precise paint code for your vehicle. They will likely have access to the paint and its corresponding code. However, be aware that obtaining the paint might involve some cost.
3. Explore Online Forums and Communities
BMW enthusiast forums and online communities are invaluable resources. Post pictures of your i8's blue paint, and enthusiasts might be able to identify the shade and potentially offer their best guesses for related codes. Be aware that these estimations might not be entirely accurate.
What if I can't find the exact code?
If locating the precise code proves impossible, your options are limited but still available:
- Color Matching: A professional auto body shop can analyze your i8's paint and create a custom color match. This method is more expensive but ensures a precise color match for touch-ups or repairs.
- Closest Match: Using the closest commercially available paint code might result in a slightly off shade, but this might suffice for minor touch-ups where absolute color accuracy is less crucial.
Is there a universal standard for automotive color codes?
There isn't a single, universally adopted standard for car paint codes. Various manufacturers use their internal systems, making direct cross-referencing difficult. While systems like the Automotive Color Standard (ACS) exist, they are not always used consistently across the board.
By following these steps, you'll have a much higher chance of successfully identifying your BMW i8's blue color code, even with the complexities surrounding BMW's naming conventions and internal systems. Remember, patience and perseverance are key to achieving a precise color match.
