Ford Tuxedo Black Code Chart By Year: Identification Guide
Quick Answer
The Ford Tuxedo Black paint code is predominantly ‘UG’, a metallic black finish used across various Ford models from approximately 2008 to 2016. While ‘UG’ remains consistent, its availability varied by model and year. Always verify the code on your vehicle’s door jamb sticker, under-hood label, or through a VIN decoder to ensure precise color matching, as specific model years and configurations can influence its presence.
Identifying the correct paint code for your Ford vehicle is paramount for seamless repairs and restoration. For owners of vehicles originally finished in the distinctive Tuxedo Black, finding the precise paint code can be challenging amidst similar black hues and potential label degradation. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed chart for the Ford Tuxedo Black paint code, ‘UG’, outlines its year-by-year availability, and offers expert instructions on how to accurately locate and verify this essential identification information for your specific model.
This guide covers Ford’s Tuxedo Black (UG) paint code, specifically its availability from approximately the 2008 model year through its discontinuation around 2016. While the title reflects a broader scope through 2026, Tuxedo Black’s production ended before this period. Data herein is based on factory specifications and service bulletins for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) paint. Readers should always verify information against their specific vehicle’s door jamb label, VIN, or owner’s manual. Last reviewed: May 2026.
Ford Tuxedo Black Code Chart: Identification Guide
The definitive identifier for Ford’s Tuxedo Black is the paint code UG. This code represents a premium metallic black finish that brought a sophisticated depth and sparkle to numerous Ford vehicles during its production run. Research indicates that Tuxedo Black Metallic was a popular choice across many model lines, often seen on higher trim levels or as a desirable optional upgrade.
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| Code | Year / Range | Meaning | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UG | Approx. 2008 – 2016 | Tuxedo Black Metallic | Driver’s Side Door Jamb (B-pillar sticker) | Premium metallic finish with fine flake. Widely available on F-150, Explorer, Fusion, Mustang. Replaced by Shadow Black (G1) or Absolute Black (UA) from 2016 onwards. |
*Year ranges are approximate and may vary slightly by specific model and market. Always verify using your vehicle’s unique identification.
How to read this chart: The table above provides the essential data for identifying Tuxedo Black paint. The “Code” column presents the official alphanumeric designation. “Year / Range” indicates the approximate model years this code was actively used by Ford. “Meaning” clarifies the full name of the color. “Location” specifies the most common place to find this code on your vehicle, and “Notes” offers additional context on its characteristics and historical usage. While the code ‘UG’ remains consistent, its availability was model-year dependent, typically ending around the 2016 production cycle.
UG
Tuxedo Black Metallic
Door Jamb
G1 (Shadow Black)
Locating Your Ford Tuxedo Black Paint Code on Your Vehicle
To accurately identify your Ford’s Tuxedo Black paint code, you’ll need to locate the vehicle’s factory information label. For the vast majority of Ford vehicles, this label is a two-character alphanumeric code, prominently displayed on the driver’s side door jamb (also known as the B-pillar sticker). This sticker often contains crucial manufacturing data, including the VIN, gross vehicle weight ratings, tire pressure information, and the paint code.
On the door jamb label, look for a section typically labeled ‘EXT PNT’ or ‘COLOR’. The code ‘UG’ will be listed directly adjacent to or beneath this designation. While the driver’s door jamb is the most common location, some older Ford models or specific configurations might have this label in alternative spots, such as inside the glove compartment, on the underside of the hood near the radiator support, or occasionally on the fender apron. For instance, some heavy-duty F-Series trucks might have a secondary label under the hood. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific label locations if the door jamb sticker is missing or unreadable.
The most common and reliable location. Open the driver’s door and inspect the sticker on the B-pillar.
Your vehicle’s manual often contains a section detailing paint codes or where to find them.
Utilize an online VIN decoder or contact a dealership with your VIN for factory specs.
Year-by-Year Ford Tuxedo Black Code Availability and Notable Differences
Tuxedo Black (UG) emerged as a distinguished paint option for Ford vehicles around the 2008 model year. It was introduced to offer a richer, more dynamic black alternative to the traditional solid black finishes, leveraging a fine metallic flake to achieve its distinctive visual depth. Its prevalence grew rapidly, peaking in availability across a wide range of Ford’s popular models between approximately 2010 and 2015.
During its prime, Tuxedo Black was a highly sought-after color across various Ford lines. It graced the sleek body lines of sedans like the Fusion and Taurus, the robust frames of SUVs such as the Explorer and Edge, and was particularly iconic on trucks like the F-150 and Super Duty. For instance, a 2013 Ford F-150 Platinum with the EcoBoost engine would very commonly feature Tuxedo Black, often paired with chrome accents to highlight its metallic shimmer. Similarly, specific trim levels or performance packages, such as those on the Mustang GT, frequently offered UG as a premium or standard black metallic option.
The phased discontinuation of Tuxedo Black began around the 2015-2016 model years. It was primarily superseded by newer metallic black formulations, most notably Shadow Black (code G1) and Absolute Black (code UA). While these successor colors also offered metallic qualities, they feature slightly different metallic flake sizes, densities, and pigment compositions, resulting in subtle but noticeable distinctions from Tuxedo Black. For example, a 2017 F-150 would typically sport Shadow Black, demonstrating a modern take on the metallic black finish compared to its Tuxedo Black predecessors.
By The Numbers
Paint Code
Introduction Year
Discontinuation Year
Finish Type
Verifying Your Ford Paint Code for Accurate Color Matching
Achieving a perfect color match for touch-ups or repairs on your Ford Tuxedo Black vehicle hinges on absolute certainty regarding the paint code. Relying solely on a single source, such as a potentially faded door jamb sticker, can lead to discrepancies. Expert practice dictates cross-referencing your findings with multiple authoritative sources.
One of the most reliable verification methods is to use your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). By inputting your VIN into an online VIN decoder tool or, more accurately, having a Ford dealership run the VIN, you can retrieve the original factory specifications, which explicitly include the paint code. For example, if your door jamb sticker is weathered and the ‘UG’ appears as ‘U6’ or indistinct, a VIN lookup can definitively confirm ‘UG’. Similarly, if you retain original documentation, a build sheet, window sticker, or service manual for your specific vehicle will list the factory-applied paint code. These documents serve as primary evidence of your vehicle’s original color. Directly contacting a Ford dealership’s parts department with your VIN is also highly recommended, as they have direct access to Ford’s comprehensive build data, ensuring the most accurate confirmation for your specific vehicle’s paint. This layered verification process significantly reduces the risk of misidentification and ensures optimal results for any paint work.
Visually inspect the driver’s side door jamb for the ‘EXT PNT’ or ‘COLOR’ code.
Use an online VIN decoder or contact a Ford dealership to retrieve factory specifications.
Refer to original documentation like the window sticker, build sheet, or owner’s manual.
Provide your VIN to a Ford parts department for factory confirmation of the paint code.
Distinguishing Tuxedo Black from Similar Ford Black Hues
Ford has utilized several black paint codes over its history, which can lead to confusion if not properly identified. While all are “black,” their characteristics differ significantly, primarily between solid and metallic finishes. Tuxedo Black (UG) is specifically a metallic black, distinguished by its fine metallic flake that reflects light, giving it a noticeable shimmer and depth, especially under direct sunlight.
It’s crucial to differentiate Tuxedo Black from other prominent Ford blacks:
- Raven Black (UA): An older, classic solid black with no metallic flake. It offers a deep, uniform black appearance, contrasting sharply with Tuxedo Black’s sparkle. Notably, the code ‘UA’ was later reused for Absolute Black, a newer metallic black.
- Shadow Black (G1): This code largely superseded Tuxedo Black from around 2016 onwards. Shadow Black is also a metallic black, but it often features a slightly different metallic flake composition or density, giving it a subtle distinction when viewed side-by-side with Tuxedo Black.
- Absolute Black (UA): As mentioned, this is a newer metallic black that inherited the ‘UA’ code. It shares metallic characteristics with Shadow Black and Tuxedo Black but represents Ford’s contemporary metallic black offering, also with its own unique flake characteristics.
The presence and nature of the metallic flake are the primary visual cues for Tuxedo Black. Under optimal lighting, Tuxedo Black will exhibit a depth and sparkle that a solid black like older Raven Black will not. However, visual perception can be subjective and influenced by lighting, vehicle cleanliness, and paint aging. Therefore, the paint code remains the only definitive and accurate method to distinguish these colors for any repair or paint matching project.
Be cautious of common misreads on faded labels. ‘UG’ can sometimes be mistaken for ‘U6’, ‘UB’, or simply appear indistinct. Always cross-verify with your VIN or a Ford dealership to avoid costly color matching errors with similar black codes like G1 or UA.
Factors Affecting Ford Paint Code Identification and Matching
Even with the correct paint code, achieving a seamless color match for Tuxedo Black, or any metallic paint, can present challenges due to several external factors. As an expert in automotive finishes, I emphasize these considerations:
- Paint Fade and Environmental Exposure: Over time, UV radiation, environmental pollutants, and harsh washing chemicals can cause paint to fade, oxidize, or alter its perceived hue. A 10-year-old Ford F-150 in Tuxedo Black might appear slightly less vibrant or even have a subtle purplish cast compared to its original factory finish, necessitating expert blending techniques for any repair.
- Previous Repairs or Repaints: If a vehicle has undergone prior bodywork, it might have been repainted with a slightly different shade, a non-OEM color, or even a different type of paint system, even if the original factory code was referenced. This creates a legacy issue where the “current” color isn’t perfectly identical to the “original” factory color.
- Manufacturing Variations: Even within the same paint code, subtle batch variations can occur during the manufacturing process. These are usually negligible but can become apparent during a repair, especially on a large, flat panel.
- Paint Type and Application Techniques: Tuxedo Black is a metallic paint, typically applied using a base coat/clear coat system. The way metallic particles orient during application can significantly impact the final appearance, especially the “flop” (how the color appears at different viewing angles). Achieving an exact match requires not just the right paint formula but also skilled application techniques that mimic factory conditions. Local body shops often use sophisticated spectrophotometers to analyze existing paint and adjust formulas for optimal blending.
These factors underscore why professional assessment and meticulous preparation are crucial for any paint repair involving Tuxedo Black.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ford Tuxedo Black Paint Code
What is the paint code for Ford Tuxedo Black?
The primary paint code for Ford Tuxedo Black is UG. This alphanumeric identifier denotes the specific metallic black formulation used by Ford during its production years.
What years did Ford use Tuxedo Black?
Ford predominantly offered Tuxedo Black (UG) from approximately the 2008 through the 2016 model years. Its availability varied slightly by model, with most vehicles transitioning to newer metallic blacks like Shadow Black (G1) or Absolute Black (UA) by late 2016.
How do I find my Ford paint code?
Your Ford paint code is most commonly found on the driver’s side door jamb sticker (B-pillar), usually under the heading ‘EXT PNT’ or ‘COLOR’. If unavailable there, check your owner’s manual, original build sheet, or use a VIN decoder.
Is Tuxedo Black Metallic the same as Shadow Black?
No, Tuxedo Black Metallic (UG) is not the same as Shadow Black (G1), although both are metallic black paints. Shadow Black largely replaced Tuxedo Black in Ford’s lineup, featuring subtle differences in metallic flake composition and pigment, leading to a distinct appearance when compared directly.
Why is my Tuxedo Black paint hard to match?
Metallic paints like Tuxedo Black are inherently more challenging to match due to factors such as metallic flake orientation, paint fade from UV exposure, prior repairs, and minute batch variations during manufacturing. Professional paint technicians often use advanced tools and blending techniques to achieve an accurate match.
Ford Tuxedo Black is predominantly identified by code ‘UG’ and was prevalent from approximately 2008-2016. Accurate code location involves checking door jambs, VIN decoders, or build sheets. Verifying the code is crucial for precise color matching, distinguishing it from other Ford black paints, and addressing potential challenges like paint fade or previous repairs. Utilize this guide to confidently identify and verify your Ford’s Tuxedo Black paint code, ensuring professional results for any paint-related needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ford Tuxedo Black paint code?
The primary Ford Tuxedo Black paint code is ‘UG’. This alphanumeric identifier represents a metallic black finish that was a popular option across many Ford models, including trucks, SUVs, and cars, during its production run. Always confirm this code on your vehicle’s physical labels or through a VIN check for absolute accuracy.
Which years was Tuxedo Black paint available on Ford vehicles?
Ford’s Tuxedo Black (code UG) was broadly available from approximately the 2008 model year through the 2015 or 2016 model years, depending on the specific vehicle line. It was eventually phased out and replaced by other metallic black options like Shadow Black (G1) or Absolute Black (UA) in subsequent model years.
Where can I find the paint code on my Ford vehicle?
The paint code is typically located on a sticker on the driver’s side door jamb (B-pillar), often near the VIN. Other possible locations include the glove compartment, under the hood on the radiator support or fender apron, or within your vehicle’s owner’s manual or service documentation. Look for ‘EXT PNT’ or ‘COLOR’ followed by the code.
Is Tuxedo Black the same as Shadow Black or Absolute Black?
No, Tuxedo Black (UG), Shadow Black (G1), and Absolute Black (UA, also older Raven Black) are distinct Ford colors. While all are black, Tuxedo Black is characterized by a specific metallic flake composition that differs visually from Shadow Black’s flake and significantly from the solid finish of older Raven Black. Always rely on the code for precise identification.
Why is it important to verify my Ford paint code?
Verifying your Ford paint code is crucial for accurate color matching, especially for touch-ups or repairs. Factors like paint fade, previous repaints, and subtle metallic differences between similar-looking blacks necessitate an exact code match. Using the incorrect code can result in a noticeable color mismatch, diminishing your vehicle’s aesthetic value.