My paint code is C744 (2005 C240 Brilliant Silver). I've given this code to paint retailers, but they do not have it in their computer. They have 744. I read somewhere that the C prefix is a special designator. Nonetheless, the retailers want to sell me the 744.

Three questions. Two related to the paint, and one non-related.

(1) Is the 744 a suitable substitute?

(2) Also, they say there are several mixes for the 744, depending on the VIN number. My number is WDBRF61J45F632311. What is the ChromaBase part number for this VIN number?

(3) What is the procedure to remove and replace the strip that mounts on the top, center, bumper cover?

To give you an idea of the part I refer to, it is the part of the cover that contains the chrome strip. It is also the part that the garage door would strike first as the door decends in a straight line from above. Let's say that the car is parked far enough inside that the door could only graze a millionth of an inch of the cover. This is the part it would graze.

I was told by the Mercedes parts guy that it pops in. Upon inspection, it does not appear to "pop" in.

Thanks!

 

The "C" tells you that your car has the new Ceramic Clear Coat. 744 is the color code, but the variants you are questioning do not necessarily coincide with VIN numbers. Colors can vary slightly from production plant to production plant an even how long the paint was baked on the assembly line.

The refinish procedure is the same for cars with Ceramic clear as it is for the old clear. The new Ceramic clear is more difficult to sand to prep for repainting, but other than that, it is the same. Ceramic clear is not available for refinishing. The standard clear is still fine.

I suggest removing your fuel door and bringing it to your paint supplier where they can compare the color variant paint "chips" to your fuel door to choose the correct variant to most closely match your car. A perfect match may not be possible, so blending color around the repair area and clear coating the entire panel is recommended.

I hope this helps.

NICKSPA

 

Thanks! It helps a lot.