KX4 Nissan color: Full breakdown and selection guide

Car owners Nissan Often faced with the need to restore paintwork after minor accidents or long-term use. One of the most popular queries in search engines is code clarification. KX4. This is not just a set of characters, but an exact shade identifier that the manufacturer has assigned to a specific range of colors.

Understanding what's behind the acronym KX4, is critical for quality repairs. An error in code selection may result in the restored area being incompatible with the factory shade, even if they appear visually similar. In this article, we will look in detail at what color is hidden behind this index, how it behaves under different lighting conditions, and what nuances exist when choosing paint.

Automotive palette Nissan rich and varied, but some shades are more common than others. Code KX4 refers to a classic, but at the same time specific range, which was actively used in different years of production. It is important not to confuse it with similar gray or silver tones, as the differences can be extremely subtle and only noticeable to professionals.

Explanation and official color name of KX4

Code KX4 in catalogs Nissan corresponds to a color called "Gun Metallic" or "Gun Gray Metallic". This is a deep, rich gray shade with a pronounced metallic effect. Unlike simple gray paints, this color has a complex structure, where particles of aluminum powder create a play of light on the surface of the body.

Feature KX4 lies in its ability to change perception depending on the time of day and weather. On a cloudy day it can seem cold, almost steely, but under the bright sun it reveals warm, smoky notes. It is this versatility that makes the color so popular for business class models and SUVs.

When ordering paint by code, you must indicate exactly KX4, since there are similar indexes, for example, K10 or K11, which refer to other shades of gray. An error in one number will lead to the purchase of a completely different color. The manufacturer often changes paint formulas, so even the same code in different years may have microscopic differences in composition.

For accurate color identification, always check the VIN and paint code plate located on the driver's door pillar or under the hood. It will indicate exactly the shade that was applied at the factory when assembling your Nissan.

Technical characteristics and application features

Color KX4 belongs to the category of two-component or three-layer metallics, depending on the year of manufacture of the car. The paint contains special pigments and aluminum flakes that are responsible for the shimmer. Application of this type of paint requires professional equipment and skill, as improper spraying can result in a streaky effect or uneven shine.

When repairing parts painted in color KX4, there is often a problem with the transition. Due to the metallic effect, the boundary between old and new paint may be visible to the naked eye if you do not use “transition” technology to adjacent parts. This is especially true for the fenders, doors and hood.

• 🎨 Cover type: Metallic with high density aluminum flakes.
• 💧 UV resistance: High, but requires regular polishing.
• 🌡️ Temperature influence: At low temperatures the color appears darker, at high temperatures it appears lighter.

It is important to consider that the base paint KX4 applied to a primed surface. Skipping the priming step or using an incompatible primer may result in the coating peeling over time. In addition, the thickness of the enamel layer must strictly comply with factory standards so as not to disrupt the geometry of the part.

To achieve the ideal result, painters often use computer color selection, which takes into account not only the code, but also the degree of fading of the paintwork of your particular car. This allows you to mix the paint so that it blends perfectly with the surrounding panels.

Nissan models with KX4 factory paint

Color KX4 was widespread on many popular models Nissan, especially in the crossover and SUV segment. Most often, this shade can be found on cars that are focused on solidity and restraint. It looks great on large bodies, emphasizing their massiveness and strict lines.

Among the models where KX4 was one of the basic or additional colors, the following stand out: Nissan Qashqai, Nissan X-Trail, Nissan Murano, as well as sedans Nissan Teana and Nissan Maxima. In some regions this color was also offered on compact hatchbacks, although it was less common there.

• 🚙 Nissan X-Trail: One of the most common "carriers" of Gun Metallic color.
• 🚗 Nissan Qashqai: Popular in both the first and second generations.
• 🚘 Nissan Murano: Emphasis on the premium and status of the car.

If you own one of these models, chances are your car is painted this color. KX4, very high. However, it is always worth checking the technical documentation, since the configurations could differ depending on the market and year of manufacture.

Sometimes a manufacturer uses similar codes for different markets, so the code on the plate may differ from the international standard. In such cases, it is better to contact an authorized dealer with the VIN code for an accurate decoding.

The process of selecting and mixing paint

Selection of paint by code KX4 - this is not just mixing the dye according to the formula. This is a complex process that requires taking into account the vehicle's operating history. The paintwork fades over time, becomes dirty and changes its optical properties. What's written on the paint can may not match what's on your car. Nissan.

Modern painting stations use spectrophotometers to scan the body. The device reads the shade from several points, excluding damaged areas, and provides an adjustment to the basic formula. This allows for maximum matching accuracy, even if the factory color has changed over the years.

When selecting paint yourself or ordering paint in a store, you must consider the following factors:

• 🔍 Year of manufacture: The paint formula could change even within the same model.
• 🌍 Market: European and Asian versions may have differences in shade.
• ☀️ Paintwork condition: The degree of burnout requires individual adjustment.

Don't skimp on paint quality. Cheap alternatives often have a different type of metallic sheen, making the repair noticeable even with careful polishing. It is better to spend more money on an original base or a high-quality analogue from trusted manufacturers.

After mixing the paint, be sure to apply a test coat to the test plate and let it dry. The color of wet paint and dry paint can differ significantly, especially in the case of metallics such as KX4.

⚠️ Attention: Never try to mix KX4 paint by eye or using only photos from the Internet. Metallic pigments behave unpredictably when drying, and an error in proportions will lead to a complete discrepancy between the shade and the body.

What is the “metallic effect” and why is it difficult to paint?

The metallic effect is created by many small aluminum flakes, which are located in the paint layer parallel to the surface. When painting, it is important to ensure the same orientation of these scales. If they lie flat in one place and stick out in another, the color will appear different. This requires the perfect balance of gun pressure, paint viscosity and distance to the part. Violation of technology leads to the appearance of “shagreen” or stains.

Gun Metallic Body Care

Color KX4 It is quite practical to use, since small scratches and dust are less noticeable on it compared to black or white. However, regular maintenance is required to maintain its deep and rich appearance. The metallic sheen may fade over time due to the formation of an oxide film on the surface of the varnish.

It is recommended to carry out regular washing using special shampoos that do not contain aggressive alkalis. After washing, it is advisable to use protective wax compounds or ceramics, which create an additional barrier to UV rays and road reagents. This will help maintain the richness of the gray shade for many years.

Color feature KX4 is that traces of bird droppings and tree resin are clearly visible on it. These contaminants can quickly penetrate the varnish if they are not removed promptly. Therefore, if such stains are found, they should be washed off immediately with a soft cloth and water.

Once a year it is recommended to carry out a deep polishing of the body. This will remove micro-scratches and return the varnish to the mirror-like shine that is so characteristic of the original color. Nissan. Polishing also allows you to remove minor tarnishes and restore richness to the color.

Compatibility table and analogues

Sometimes it can be difficult to find original paint with a code KX4, especially for older models. In such cases, you can consider analogues from other manufacturers that offer solutions that are similar in shade. However, it is important to understand that a complete match is only possible with individual selection.

Below is a table showing codes and names that may be close to KX4 depending on the paint manufacturer:

Manufacturer	Code/Name of analogue	Features
Original Nissan	KX4 Gun Metallic	Original plant formula
PPG	NPX-445	A close shade with an emphasis on cool gray
Sikkens	2045	Warmer undertone, needs adjustment
Mobihel	20-112	Budget option, requires careful polishing

The use of analogues can be economically justified, but requires highly qualified painters. An error when mixing an analogue can result in the repair being noticeable even after polishing. Therefore, it is better to trust only trusted suppliers and coloring centers.

Common mistakes during repairs and their consequences

When repairing parts in color KX4 owners and even some craftsmen make a number of typical mistakes that lead to deterioration in the appearance of the car. One of the most common problems is ignoring the transition technology. Applying paint only to the damaged area without a smooth transition to adjacent panels makes the repair noticeable due to the metallic effect.

Another mistake is using low-quality varnish. Cheap varnish can quickly turn yellow or cloudy, which will completely ruin the appearance of an expensive shade. KX4. The varnish must be compatible with the base and have sufficient thickness to protect it from scratches.

• ❌ Ignoring burnout: Painting without taking into account the faded background results in a bright spot on the body.
• ❌ Incorrect dilution: Excess solvent changes the viscosity and distribution of the metal flakes.
• ❌ No degreasing: Causes fish-eye defects and paint peeling.

To avoid these problems, it is necessary to strictly follow the paint manufacturer's process instructions. Use only recommended solvents, hardeners and varnishes. Do not try to speed up the drying process by using high temperatures, as this may result in surface defects.

⚠️ Attention: If you notice that after painting the color KX4 differs from neighboring parts, do not try to correct this by polishing. The problem is probably an incorrect paint formula or a violation of the application technology. It is better to remove the layer and repaint it again.

Correct body repair in color KX4 requires time, patience and a professional approach. However, the result is worth it - the car will look like new again, with a deep and noble Gun Metallic shade.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

What is the exact color behind the KX4 code?

Code KX4 corresponds to the color "Gun Metallic" (Gun Metallic). It is a rich gray shade with a metallic sheen that can range from cool steely to warm smoky depending on the lighting.

Can I mix KX4 paint myself in a garage?

Theoretically possible, but highly not recommended. Color KX4 contains complex metallic pigments that require precise dosing and professional equipment for even distribution. Errors will result in noticeable differences in shade.

Which Nissan models are this color most commonly found on?

Most often color KX4 can be found on models Nissan Qashqai, X-Trail, Murano, Teana and Maxima, especially in generations released between 2007 and 2017.

How can I check that the KX4 paint is suitable for my car?

Check the technical plate on the driver's door pillar or under the hood. The paint code should be indicated there. If the code matches KX4, then this is your color. You can also contact the dealer with the VIN code for an accurate decoding.

How much does it cost to paint a part in KX4 color?

The cost depends on the region, quality of materials and complexity of work. On average, painting one part (for example, a wing), taking into account materials and work, will cost from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles. Full body painting is much more expensive.