Paint Safari from Nissan - one of the most popular colors for tuning domestic cars, especially models VAZ 2107, 2110, 2114 And Granta. Also known as safari beige or metallic sand, this shade is prized for its versatility, practicality and stylish appearance. However, the selection of original paint and its correct application have a number of nuances that you should know about before starting work.
In this article we will look at the official paint codes Safari (including options for different years of production), we’ll tell you how to choose an analogue from other manufacturers (DuPont, Sikkens, Mobihel), and we will reveal the secrets of body preparation VAZ for painting. You will also find step-by-step instructions for tinting, tips for caring for paintwork and answers to frequently asked questions - from the differences between KH3 And QM1 to why paint can change shade after a year.
Official paint codes Nissan Safari and their analogues
Original color Safari from Nissan has several variations that differ by year of manufacture and region. Basic codes relevant for painting VAZ:
- 🔹 KH3 — “Safari Beige Metallic” (classic sand metallic, the most common option for Nissan Patrol And Terrano).
- 🔹 QM1 — “Gold Beige Metallic” (a warmer shade with a golden tint, used in the 2000s).
- 🔹 JN1 — “Light Khaki Metallic” (light khaki, close to
KH3, but less saturated).
For VAZ most often chosen KH3, since it fits better with plastic interior parts and bumpers of domestic cars. However, it is important to consider that the original paint Nissan has a unique pigment with the addition of aluminum powder of a specific fraction, which complicates the exact selection of an analogue.
Below is the code correspondence table Safari popular tinting systems:
| Original code Nissan | Color name | DuPont | Sikkens | Mobihel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
KH3 |
Safari Beige Metallic | GAN2035 |
J5G5.35 |
7701 |
QM1 |
Gold Beige Metallic | GAN2040 |
J5G5.40 |
7705 |
JN1 |
Light Khaki Metallic | GAN2028 |
J5G5.28 |
7703 |
⚠️ Attention: When ordering paint by code KH3 specify what option you need for the European market (if you plan to paint VAZ). The Japanese version of this color has a cooler undertone, which is noticeable in daylight.
How to choose paint Safari for VAZ: step by step instructions
Even knowing the original paint code, you can achieve a 100% match with the factory color Nissan Safari on the body VAZ difficult. The reasons are different primer technologies, metal composition and even the region of car production. Here is an algorithm that will help minimize risks:
- Compare samples under different lighting. Take a part with you to the store from Nissan (such as a gas cap) or photograph the car in sunlight, in the shade and under artificial light.
- Use a spectrophotometer. Many color centers offer free color measurements to give you the exact formula for your shade.
- Test on an unnecessary part. Apply a test coat to the old bumper or door to evaluate the result after drying.
If you paint VAZ 2114 or Priora, keep in mind that their plastic parts (moldings, mirrors) often have a different shade of beige. In this case, you will either have to paint them separately, or choose a compromise option.
Take a picture of the car in daylight and artificial light|
Specify the year of manufacture Nissan, from which the color was taken|
Check for metallic in original paint|
Order a sample (50–100 ml) for the test|
Find out about the tinting guarantee at the selected center-->
Body preparation VAZ for painting in color Safari
Paint Safari - metallic, which means that all body defects will be visible after painting. Dents and scratches on VAZ 2107 or Nive, where the metal is thinner. Preparation includes several mandatory steps:
- 🛠️ Removing old paintwork. Use a sander with an attachment
P80–P120for rough cleaning andP320–P400for final processing. - 🧴 Degreasing. Suitable App Wash & Wipe or regular white spirit, but without silicone in the composition.
- 🔧 Primer. For metallic Safari required epoxy primer (For example, PPG DP40/DP40LF) - it prevents corrosion and improves adhesion.
Pay special attention to the joints of parts and rusty areas. On VAZ 2110 Arches and sills often rust - they need to be treated rust converter (For example, Tsinkar) and cover acid soil before applying the base coat.
If you paint VAZ 2121 (Niva), use anti-gravel protection on the bottom of the doors and arches - sand and stones quickly spoil the metallic Safari.
Painting technology: how to avoid mistakes
Paint Safari requires strict adherence to application technology. Basic rules:
- Temperature and humidity. Optimal conditions:
+20…+25°Cat humidity not higher than 60%. When painting in the garage, use a heater and a hygrometer. - Layers of paint. Metallic is applied in 2-3 layers with interlayer drying for 10-15 minutes. The last layer should be the thinnest - this will prevent "spotting".
- Varnish. Required two-component varnish (For example, Sikkens Autoclear LV) in 2 layers. Without metallic varnish Safari fades quickly.
Common painting mistake VAZ — incorrect setting of the spray gun. For metallic Safari recommended parameters:
- 🎨 Pressure:
2.0–2.5 bar. - 🔍 Duza:
1.3–1.4 mm. - 💨 Air consumption:
300–400 l/min.
⚠️ Attention: If after painting VAZ 2115 or Kalina “stripes” appeared (zebra effect), which means the paint was applied too thickly. This can only be corrected by repainting.
Professional spray gun|
Household spray gun|
Spray can|
Brush (for local work)|
Paint care Safari on VAZ: how to maintain shine
Metallic Safari requires careful care, especially on domestic cars, where the paintwork is less durable. Basic recommendations:
- 🚿 Washing. Use contactless shampoos (For example, Karcher RM 801) and microfiber sponges. Abrasive scourers scratch metallics.
- 🧴 Polishing. Apply once every 6 months protective polish (For example, 3M 39071) - it prevents pigment from fading.
- 🌞 UV protection. When parking in the sun, use case or liquid glass (For example, Willson Body Glass Guard).
On VAZ 2109 and other older models, “cobwebs” often appear on the varnish. To remove them, use abrasive paste (For example, Farecla G3) followed by protective polishing. But remember: polishing too often will thin the varnish!
What to do if the paint Safari changed color?
If a year or two after painting Safari has become duller or yellowish, the reasons may be:
1. Pigment burnout - typical for cheap analogues without a UV filter.
2. Oxidation of varnish - occurs due to poor quality two-component composition.
3. Incorrect tinting — if there is too much yellow pigment in the paint, it will appear more strongly over time.
This can only be corrected by repainting using the original paint or a high-quality analogue (for example, Sikkens).
Common problems and their solutions
When painting VAZ in color Safari owners face typical problems. Let's look at the most common ones:
| Problem | Reason | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The paint becomes dusty after drying | Spray gun pressure too high or compressor air dirty | Polish P1200, apply another layer of varnish |
| The shade differs on different parts | Uneven application or different surface preparation | Repaint problem areas with a single primer |
| “Craters” appeared on the varnish | Dust or grease on the surface before painting | Clean the defect, degrease, reapply varnish |
If you paint VAZ 21214 (Niva Urban), please note that its plastic fenders and bumpers may not match the metallic color Safari. In this case, you will have to paint them separately or use matching vinyl stickers.
For perfect results use original primer Nissan (article KH3-100) - it fits better under metallic Safarithan universal analogues.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to paint VAZ spray can in color Safari?
Technically yes, but the result will be worse than using a spray gun. Spray cans (for example, Mobihel or Kudo) give less uniform coverage, especially on large surfaces. If you paint locally (for example, a bumper), first practice on an unnecessary part. For complete painting VAZ 2106 or 2114 spray cans are not suitable.
Why after painting Safari on VAZ Are there any divorces?
Stains (the “orange peel” effect) occur due to:
- The paint is too thick (thin it 10–15% metallic thinner).
- Incorrect spray gun distance (keep it at
20–25 cmfrom the surface). - High room temperature (paint dries too quickly).
Can be corrected by polishing with abrasive paste. P1500–P2000.
Which varnish is best for paint? Safari?
Optimal options:
- Sikkens Autoclear LV — dries quickly, gives a deep shine.
- PPG D8115 - UV resistant, suitable for bright metallics.
- Mobihel 2K - a budget option with good adhesion.
For VAZ with a problematic body (for example, 21099) choose varnishes with increased elasticity (For example, Spies Hecker Permahyd Hi-TEC 280) to avoid cracks.
How much does it cost to paint VAZ in Safari?
The cost depends on the amount of work:
- Local painting (bumper, hood):
8 000–15 000 ₽. - Full painting (body + parts):
40 000–70 000 ₽. - DIY painting:
15 000–25 000 ₽(paint + materials).
On VAZ 2123 (Chevy Niva) the price may be higher due to the complex geometry of the body.
Is it possible to mix KH3 And QM1 for a unique shade?
Technically yes, but the result is unpredictable. KH3 - cold sandy, and QM1 - warm golden. When mixed, you can get a dirty shade. If you want to experiment, order individual tinting in a professional center (for example, DuPont), where they will select a harmonious mix.