The 2022 Ford F-150 Color Chart: A Comprehensive Analysis of Aesthetics, Chemistry, and Market Value

The 2022 model year of the Ford F-150 represents a sophisticated maturation of the fourteenth-generation platform. While the automotive industry frequently focuses on torque figures, towing capacities, and hybridization—typified by the PowerBoost powertrain—the aesthetic configuration of these vehicles plays an equally pivotal role in consumer satisfaction and residual value. The exterior finish of a truck is not merely a cosmetic veneer; it is a functional layer of protection and a critical component of the vehicle’s identity.

For the 2022 F-150, Ford curated a palette of thirteen distinct colors, moving away from the flat, non-metallic “primer” trends of previous years toward a lineup rich in complex metallics, tinted clearcoats, and pearlized tri-coats.

This report serves as an exhaustive guide for prospective buyers, restoration specialists, and automotive market analysts. We will dissect the chemical composition of the paints, the strict availability matrices dictated by the 2022 Order Guide, and the psychographic profiles associated with each hue. Furthermore, by integrating real-world feedback from owners regarding durability and maintenance, we offer a nuanced perspective that transcends the showroom brochure.

The Evolution from 2021 to 2022

Understanding the 2022 palette requires contextualizing it against the outgoing 2021 options. The 2022 model year saw the deletion of Lead Foot, a popular non-metallic gray that had garnered a cult following for its utilitarian, tactical appearance. Also removed were Guard (a deep metallic green) and Kodiak Brown.² In their place, Ford introduced Atlas Blue Metallic, a vibrant hue designed to replace Velocity Blue, and solidified the presence of Antimatter Blue, a color so dark it creates a visual paradox, often reading as black in low light. This shift suggests a strategic move by Ford toward “intelligent” colors—paints that shift character depending on lighting conditions, thereby elevating the perceived luxury of the truck.

The Achromatic Spectrum: Whites, Grays, Silvers, and Blacks

The backbone of the F-150 sales volume lies in the achromatic spectrum. These colors—White, Black, Silver, and Gray—are the choices of pragmatism, corporate fleets, and resale value optimization. However, within the 2022 lineup, there is significant variation in chemical formulation and visual depth.

Oxford White (Paint Code: YZ / Z1)

Paint Code: YZ, Z1 (Ford Reference: M6466, M6887)

Availability: Universal (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, Tremor, Raptor).

Oxford White is the ubiquitous standard of the American work truck. It is a solid, non-metallic gloss white. Unlike the more expensive white options in the lineup, Oxford White lacks pearl essence or metallic flake. This simplicity is its greatest asset. From a maintenance perspective, Oxford White is the most forgiving color in the catalog. It reflects the highest percentage of solar radiation, keeping the cabin cooler in Sun Belt states—a functional advantage for job sites in Texas or Arizona.

Furthermore, the absence of metallic flake makes Oxford White the easiest color to touch up. Chips and scratches can be filled with standard automotive correction fluids without the need for complex blending or clearcoat matching that metallics require. Market data indicates that white trucks often hold their value better than niche colors due to the massive demand from the commercial sector; depreciation for white pickups is estimated at only 21.9% over three years. It is the “safe” investment, maximizing utility while minimizing maintenance overhead.

Agate Black Metallic (Paint Code: UM)

Paint Code: UM (Ford Reference: M7414) 3

Availability: Universal (Standard across all trims).

Agate Black Metallic represents the “black tie” option for the F-150. Unlike a flat shadow black, Agate Black incorporates a fine metallic flake that gives the paint a deep, liquid appearance under direct light. This metallic element serves a dual purpose: it enhances the aesthetic depth of the vehicle, making it appropriate for high-end trims like the Limited and Platinum, and it helps to slightly mask the swirl marks that inevitably plague black vehicles.

However, the reality of owning Agate Black is maintenance-intensive. Real-world reports from owners highlight the “black truck paradox”: the vehicle looks stunning for approximately ten minutes after a wash before dust, pollen, and water spots become visible.⁹ Despite this, Agate Black remains a top seller because of its aggressive, authoritative presence. It is also the foundational color for the various “Black Appearance Packages” introduced or continued in 2022, where emblems, wheels, and bezels are color-matched to the body for a monolithic look.

Iconic Silver Metallic (Paint Code: JS)

Paint Code: JS (Ford Reference: M7432) 3

Availability: Broad (XL through Platinum, Tremor, Raptor).

Iconic Silver is a classic bright metallic silver. It is chemically designed to highlight the architectural lines of the F-150’s aluminum body. The high reflectivity of the metallic flake accentuates the fender flares and the power dome of the hood, creating a chiseled appearance that darker colors often obscure.

From a pragmatic standpoint, Iconic Silver competes with Oxford White for the title of “lowest maintenance color.” It excels at hiding road salt, dried mud, and light pinstriping from brush. Owners frequently cite silver as the color that “looks clean the longest,” making it a favorite for commuters who do not have the time for weekly detailing. Unlike gray, which can look flat when dirty, the high metallic content of Iconic Silver allows it to retain a level of shine even when covered in a layer of road grime.

Carbonized Gray Metallic (Paint Code: M7)

Paint Code: M7 (Ford Reference: M7458A)

Availability: Broad (XL, XLT, Lariat, Platinum, Limited).

Carbonized Gray Metallic sits in the middle of the spectrum, replacing the older Magnetic Metallic. It is a gunmetal hue, significantly darker than Iconic Silver but lighter than Agate Black. It has become one of the most popular choices for retail buyers because it balances the aggressive look of a dark truck with the maintenance benefits of a lighter metallic.

Owner feedback suggests that Carbonized Gray is the “Goldilocks” color for concealment. It masks brake dust and asphalt grime effectively. It is particularly popular when paired with the Sport Appearance Packages, where the grille and wheels are finished in a similar dark gray, creating a cohesive, monochromatic industrial aesthetic. The deletion of Lead Foot (a flat gray) in 2022 drove many buyers toward Carbonized Gray as the primary alternative for a “tactical” look, even though it possesses a metallic finish.

Stone Gray Metallic (Paint Code: D1)

Paint Code: D1 (Ford Reference: M7393)

Availability: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum.

Stone Gray is a complex earth tone—a brownish-gray that appears almost pewter in certain lights. Its primary significance in the 2022 lineup is its role as the secondary accent color for the King Ranch trim. When a King Ranch is ordered with the traditional two-tone paint scheme, the lower bumpers and rocker panels are finished in Stone Gray, regardless of the primary body color.

As a solid body color, Stone Gray is highly functional for rural owners. Its brownish hue naturally camouflages dirt and dust from unpaved roads, making it a favorite for ranching and agricultural applications. It is less “urban” than Carbonized Gray and carries a warmer, more organic tone.

Space White Metallic (Paint Code: A3)

Paint Code: A3 (Ford Reference: M7459)

Availability: Restricted (XLT, Lariat).

Space White is one of the most unique and modern colors in the 2022 catalog. It is not a traditional metallic white; rather, it is a “ceramic” gray-white with cool undertones. It differs significantly from Star White (which is warm/creamy) and Oxford White (which is stark/bright). Space White has a milky depth that creates a flat appearance at a distance but reveals metallic flake upon close inspection.

This color is heavily restricted in the order guide, typically appearing on XLT and Lariat trims, often linked to Sport packages. It is generally not available on the King Ranch or Platinum trims, which utilize Star White as their premium option. Space White appeals to younger buyers looking for a “tech” aesthetic similar to the “Chalk” or “Nardo” finishes found in European luxury performance cars.

Star White Metallic Tri-Coat (Paint Code: AZ)

Paint Code: AZ (Ford Reference: M7446)

Availability: Premium Trims (Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, Limited).

Cost: ~$795 Option.

Star White is the premium white option. The “Tri-Coat” designation indicates a three-stage application process: a base color coat, a translucent pearl mid-coat, and a clear topcoat. This creates a depth and iridescence that simple metallic paints cannot achieve. It appears creamy and warm, exuding luxury.

However, the tri-coat process introduces significant repair costs. If a panel is scratched or dented, a body shop cannot simply “spot repair” the area. They must blend the pearl coat into adjacent panels to match the finish, often doubling the labor cost compared to repairing Oxford White. This is a critical consideration for buyers who intend to use the truck in environments where minor damage is likely.

Smoked Quartz Metallic Tinted Clearcoat (Paint Code: TQ)

Paint Code: TQ (Ford Reference: M7285)

Availability: Luxury Trims (Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, Limited).

Cost: ~$510 – $795 depending on configuration.

Smoked Quartz is a dark, charcoal gray infused with blue and purple undertones. Like Rapid Red, it utilizes a “Tinted Clearcoat,” meaning the clear layer itself carries pigment to add depth. It is lighter than Antimatter Blue but significantly more complex than Carbonized Gray.

This color acts as a gatekeeper for luxury. It is not available on base XL or XLT trucks. Seeing a Smoked Quartz F-150 on the road immediately signals a high-MSRP specification. It pairs exceptionally well with the “Carmelo” and “Admiral Blue” leather interiors found in the Platinum and Limited trims, creating a cohesive luxury palette.

The Chromatic Spectrum: Blues, Reds, and Exclusives

While the grayscale dominates volume, the chromatic colors define the personality of the F-150. The 2022 lineup features two distinct reds and two distinct blues, each serving a different market segment.

Antimatter Blue Metallic (Paint Code: HX)

Paint Code: HX (Ford Reference: M7456)

Availability: Broad (XL through Platinum, Raptor, Tremor).

Antimatter Blue is perhaps the most polarizing color in the 2022 lineup. In marketing materials and configurator renders, it appears as a deep, rich navy blue. However, in the real world, it functions almost as a black paint. The blue metallic flake is only visible under intense, direct sunlight. In overcast weather or shade, the truck appears completely black.

This “color-shifting” property has led to mixed owner feedback. Some owners love the stealth aspect—having a truck that looks black at night but reveals a blue soul in the sun. Others feel misled, having expected a more traditional blue. Maintenance-wise, Antimatter Blue shares the same difficulties as Agate Black; it shows dust, pollen, and scratches aggressively. It is a high-maintenance color that rewards diligent care with a spectacular finish.

Atlas Blue Metallic (Paint Code: B3)

Paint Code: B3 (Ford Reference: M7440)

Availability: XL, XLT, Lariat, Tremor.

New for 2022, Atlas Blue replaced Velocity Blue. It serves as the “true blue” of the lineup. It is lighter and more vibrant than Antimatter Blue, ensuring the truck reads as blue in all lighting conditions. It is not as electric or neon as the outgoing Velocity Blue, settling instead into a mature, deep primary blue.

Atlas Blue is a critical addition for buyers who found Antimatter Blue too dark. It is also available on the Tremor package, where it contrasts vividly with the Active Orange accents on the grille and fender vents, creating a sporty, high-performance look.

Race Red (Paint Code: PQ)

Paint Code: PQ (Ford Reference: M7236)

Availability: XL, XLT, Lariat, Raptor (varies by package).

Race Red is a classic, non-metallic solid red. It is bright, aggressive, and undeniably sporty. Unlike Rapid Red, it has no tint in the clearcoat and no metallic flake. It is the color of emergency vehicles and sport trucks. It is typically associated with the XLT Sport or STX trims rather than the luxury Limited or King Ranch trims. It is a high-visibility color that makes a statement without the extra cost of a premium paint option.

Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat (Paint Code: D4)

Paint Code: D4 (Ford Reference: M7443)

Availability: XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum.

Cost: ~$495 Option.

Rapid Red is the sophisticated older brother to Race Red. It uses a tinted clearcoat to achieve a candy-apple depth that looks wet even when dry. It is a darker, blood-red hue that exudes elegance.

However, Rapid Red has a reputation for fragility. Forum discussions and owner reports indicate that this paint may be more susceptible to rock chips on leading edges (bumpers and hoods) than non-tinted paints.²⁶ The tinted clearcoat makes touch-up repairs difficult, as standard red paint will not match the depth provided by the pigmented clear layer. Owners of Rapid Red trucks are often advised to invest in Paint Protection Film (PPF) for the front end to preserve the finish.

Code Orange Metallic (Paint Code: CN)

Paint Code: CN (Ford Reference: M7468)

Availability: Raptor Exclusive.

Code Orange is the “hero color” for the Ford Performance line in 2022. It is exclusively available on the F-150 Raptor (and Bronco Raptor). It is a solid, non-metallic orange that is incredibly vibrant. Its exclusivity makes it a status symbol; seeing Code Orange on the road confirms the vehicle is a Raptor without needing to see the badge. It is often paired with the Raptor 37 Performance Package and the specific interior accents that feature orange stitching.

Trim-Level Availability Matrix

One of the most complex aspects of ordering a 2022 F-150 is navigating the “Availability Matrix.” Ford does not allow every color on every truck. The trim level acts as a gatekeeper for color selection.

Visualizing Availability

The following table synthesizes data from dealer order guides and inventory analysis to clarify which colors are permissible on which trims.

The Economics of Paint: MSRP and Aftermarket Value

Paint selection is a financial decision. Beyond the base price of the truck, the paint code can influence the invoice price and the long-term resale value.

MSRP Premiums

While Agate Black, Oxford White, and Iconic Silver are “no-cost” options, the premium paints carry specific MSRP upcharges on the window sticker:

• Rapid Red Metallic: Listed consistently at $495.
• Star White Metallic: Listed at $795.
• Smoked Quartz: Often appears as a $510 to $795 option depending on the specific package discounts applied at the time of invoicing.

Maintenance and Protection Costs

Owners of dark colors (Agate Black, Antimatter Blue) often incur higher post-purchase costs. Professional detailers recommend Ceramic Coating (costing $1,000 – $1,500) to protect the soft clearcoat from swirl marks.

For Rapid Red and Star White, the fragility of the paint on the front bumper leads many owners to install Paint Protection Film (PPF), which can cost upwards of $2,000 for a full front-end package.28 This “hidden cost” of ownership should be factored in by buyers who drive primarily on highways where rock chips are common.

Resale Value Trends

Data from iSeeCars and auction reports suggests that while bold colors like Rapid Red have passionate fans, they occupy a smaller segment of the buying market. Oxford White and Agate Black remain the liquidity kings—easiest to sell, fastest to move off a lot. However, a well-maintained King Ranch in two-tone Rapid Red/Stone Gray is a “unicorn” specification that can command a premium over a standard Black/White model due to its desirability among enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Lead Foot Gray available on the 2022 F-150?

A: No. Lead Foot was deleted for the 2022 model year. Buyers seeking a gray truck must choose between Carbonized Gray Metallic (darker, metallic) or Space White (lighter, ceramic-gray tone).

Q: What is the difference between Star White and Oxford White?

A: Oxford White (YZ) is a flat, solid white used on work trucks and standard trims. It is easy to repair and has no metallic flake. Star White (AZ) is a premium Tri-Coat paint with a pearl mid-layer, giving it a creamier, deeper look. It costs extra (~$795) and is more expensive to repair.

Q: Does Antimatter Blue look blue or black?

A: It depends entirely on the lighting. In overcast conditions or at night, it appears black. The blue metallic flake is only clearly visible under direct sunlight. It is effectively a “black truck with a blue secret”.

Q: Can I get Code Orange on a standard F-150 Lariat?

A: No. Code Orange is exclusive to the F-150 Raptor for the 2022 model year. It cannot be ordered on standard trims like XLT, Lariat, or Platinum.

Q: What is the best color for hiding dirt and scratches?

A: Carbonized Gray Metallic and Stone Gray Metallic are widely considered the best for hiding road grime. Iconic Silver is excellent for hiding scratches but can show tar/mud. Agate Black and Antimatter Blue are the most difficult to keep clean.

Q: What is the paint code for the King Ranch accent color?

A: The secondary accent color on the King Ranch trim is Stone Gray Metallic. The paint code is D1.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Hue

The 2022 Ford F-150 color chart offers a sophisticated array of choices that go beyond simple red, white, and blue. From the complexity of the Smoked Quartz tinted clearcoat to the utilitarian brilliance of Oxford White, each color serves a specific function and demographic.

For the pragmatic buyer, Carbonized Gray offers the perfect balance of modern aesthetics and low maintenance. for the luxury buyer, Star White and Antimatter Blue offer depth and prestige, provided one is willing to accept the higher initial cost and maintenance requirements. Ultimately, the deletion of flat grays like Lead Foot has pushed the 2022 lineup toward a more premium, metallic-heavy future, reflecting the F-150’s status not just as a tool, but as a luxury vehicle in its own right.