Paint 1b1b for ŠKODA: code decoding, selection and nuances of use

If you are the owner ŠKODA and are faced with the need to touch up a scratch or completely repaint a part, code 1b1b may be the key to a perfect result. This code denotes not just a shade, but a whole system of color parameters that the manufacturer uses to paint body parts. However, without understanding the nuances, it is easy to make a mistake: the wrong tone or type of paint can ruin the appearance of the car, and in some cases, even reduce its market value.

In this article we will look at what exactly is hidden behind the designation 1b1bhow to interpret it correctly for your model ŠKODA (be it Octavia, Kodiaq or Fabia), and why you can't rely only on the code when ordering materials. You will also learn what mistakes are most often made when working with this paint and how to avoid them so that the result will please the eye for many years.

What does code 1b1b mean in ŠKODA paints?

Code 1b1b is not just a random set of characters, but part of the color identification system that it uses ŠKODA (and other brands of the group Volkswagen). It is deciphered as follows:

• 🔢 First two numbers/letters (1b) - indicate the base shade from the manufacturer’s palette. In this case, it is a dark gray or graphite color, often found in models of recent years.
• 🎨 Last two numbers/letters (1b) - indicate a variation in tone (for example, metallic, pearl or matte effect). Repetition 1b signals classic metallic without the extra effects.

It is important to understand that the same code may differ slightly depending on the year of the car and the manufacturer. For example, ŠKODA Octavia 2018 and ŠKODA Kodiaq 2020 with code 1b1b may have subtle differences in shade due to updates in paint technology.

⚠️ Attention: Code 1b1b is not universal! It may match the colors of other brands in the group VAG (for example, Volkswagen or Audi), but the composition of paint and pigments often varies. Always check the connection to a specific model.

To accurately determine your shade, check the paint code sticker. It is usually located:

• 🚗 In the trunk (on the inside of the lid or threshold).
• 🔧 Under the hood (on the data plate).
• 🔑 In the glove compartment (on some models, for example, ŠKODA Rapid).

Differences between 1b1b paint and similar ŠKODA shades

Color 1b1b often confused with other gray tones in the palette ŠKODA, such as 1B1B (capital letters), LB7A or Q7Q7. However, the difference can be critical during local repairs. Here are the key differences:

Paint code	Description of the shade	Effect	Example models
1b1b	Graphite metallic	Fine glitter, moderate shine	Octavia, Superb, Kodiaq
LB7A	Dark gray mother of pearl	Deep shine, changes shade at different angles	Karoq, Enyaq
Q7Q7	Anthracite matte	No glitter, velvety texture	Fabia, Scala

The main problem in selection is lighting. In artificial light 1b1b may appear almost black, while in daylight a gray undertone appears. To avoid errors:

Compare the paint on the part and in the can in natural light|

Check the code to match the vehicle's year|

Check with your dealer to see if the paint is suitable for your ŠKODA|

Order a sample (small jar) to test on an inconspicuous area -->

1b1b paint for ŠKODA Enyaq 2023 contains unique pigments with an antistatic effect, which are not found in similar colors for petrol models. This is due to the peculiarities of the body materials of electric cars. Always check when ordering whether the paint is intended for MEB platforms (if you have Enyaq or Enyaq Coupé).

How to choose the right paint 1b1b: step-by-step instructions

Even knowing the code, choosing the perfect shade is not easy. Here is an algorithm that will help you avoid mistakes:

1. Step 1: Check the complete code.

   The plate may indicate not only 1b1b, but also additional characters, for example, 1b1b/M (metallic) or 1b1b/P (mother of pearl). This is critical to the order.

2. Step 2: Determine your paint type.

   For ŠKODA three types are used:

   • 🔘 Base paint (for single-layer coating, rarely for 1b1b).
   • 🔘 Metallic (requires varnish, the most common option for 1b1b).
   • 🔘 Mother of pearl (three-layer coating, more expensive and more difficult to apply).

3. Step 3: Select a format.

   Paint comes in the form of:

   • 🎨 Aerosol can (useful for small scratches, but difficult to match the tone).
   • 🖌️ Liquid paint (for professional application with a pistol).
   • 📦 Retouching kit (brush + paint, suitable for spot repairs).

If you are painting a part completely (for example, a bumper), order paint with a reserve - 20-30% more than the calculated volume. This is due to the fact that 1b1b Requires application in 2-3 layers for uniform coverage, especially on plastic elements.

Top 5 mistakes when working with 1b1b paint and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes with this shade. Here are the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them:

1. Failure to take into account paint fading.

   Color 1b1b fades over time when exposed to UV rays. If you're only painting part of a part (like a fender), the new paint will look brighter. Solution: use matte varnish with UV filter (for example, Spies Hecker Permahyd 280) to even out the shade.

2. Incorrect preparation of plastic.

   On plastic bumpers ŠKODA 1b1b paint often peels off. The reason is the lack of a primer for plastic (for example, PPG DP40). Be sure to apply it in 1-2 layers before painting!

3. Saving on varnish.

   Metallic 1b1b requires high-quality varnish (for example, Sikkens Autoclear LV). Cheap analogues turn yellow after 1–2 years, spoiling the appearance.

⚠️ Attention: If you are painting a part with a code 1b1b on ŠKODA Enyaq, never use paint for gasoline models! Electric cars have a special antistatic coating that is incompatible with traditional compounds. This may cause the paint to peel after 3-6 months.

Another typical mistake is ignoring the temperature regime. Paint 1b1b must be applied at temperature 18–22°C and humidity not higher than 60%. Otherwise the following are possible:

• 🌡️ "Orange Peel" (uneven texture due to drying too quickly).
• 💧 Drips (if the temperature is lower 15°C).
• 🌀 Matt spots (at high humidity).

What to do if the paint has already been applied incorrectly?

If defects appear after painting, do not try to paint over them! This will make the problem worse. The only reliable way is to completely remove the paint layer (for example, using APP Stripper) and reapply in compliance with the technology. In the case of metallic 1b1b, polishing with an abrasive often helps 3M Trizact 3000, but this is a temporary solution.

Where to buy original 1b1b paint for ŠKODA?

It is better to order paint from official suppliers or trusted manufacturers. Here are reliable options:

Supplier	Format	Average price (per 1 l)	Features
ŠKODA Original	Liquid paint + varnish	~8 000 ₽	Guaranteed match, but long shipping (2-3 weeks).
PPG (series Deltacron)	Base + hardener	~6 500 ₽	Requires tinting according to code, but high quality.
Mobihel (aerosol)	400 ml can	~1 200 ₽	Convenient for minor repairs, but tone may vary.

When ordering please specify:

• 📋 Vehicle year (even within the same model, the shade may change).
• 🏭 Manufacturing plant (for example, paint for ŠKODA, collected in the Czech Republic, and in Russia may differ).
• 🔧 Part type (different primers are used for plastic and metal).

If you're buying paint online, pay attention to reviews of the specific seller. Often, under the guise of “original” they sell fakes, which after six months begin to peel off. One of the signs of high-quality paint is the presence of a certificate of conformity VW 501 80 (group standard Volkswagen for paints and varnishes).

Alternatives to 1b1b paint: when to consider other options

Sometimes original paint 1b1b unavailable or too expensive. In such cases, you can consider analogues, but with reservations:

• 🔄 Tinting according to sample.

  Many car repair shops offer to match the color based on a piece of your part. It is cheaper, but the result depends on the equipment. For 1b1b the error can reach 5–7%, which is noticeable in bright light.

• 🎨 Universal gray metallics.

  Brands like DuPont or Standox offer similar shades (for example, DuPont DBU 9700). However, they rarely match 100%. Use them only on interior parts or lower body parts.

• 🛡️ Vinyl stickers.

  For minor scratches on 1b1b You can use vinyl applications (for example, from 3M). They protect against chipping and do not require painting, but are only suitable for smooth surfaces.

If you decide to use an analogue, be sure to test it on an inconspicuous area (for example, on the inside of a door). 1b1b paint for ŠKODA Kodiaq 2021 contains special additives to protect against chemicals that are not found in universal formulations. This means that after winter washing with active chemicals, non-original paint may become cloudy.

Frequently asked questions about 1b1b paint for ŠKODA

Can 1b1b paint be mixed with other shades to get the perfect tone?

Technically yes, but it's risky. Even professional colorists do not recommend mixing 1b1b with other colors due to complex pigmentation. If the tone is not suitable, it is better to order paint from another supplier or use the original base with corrective varnish (for example, Sikkens Autoclear Plus with a blue tint to “cool” the tone).

How many layers of 1b1b paint should be applied to a plastic bumper?

For plastic you need:

1. Primer for plastic (1 layer).
2. Base paint (2 layers with intermediate drying for 10–15 minutes).
3. Varnish (2–3 layers).

The total drying time between layers is at least 30 minutes at 20°C.

Why did streaks appear after painting 1b1b?

Streaks (or "banding") occur due to:

• Incorrect paint viscosity (too thin or thick).
• Uneven spray (too close or too far from the surface).
• No interlayer drying.

Solution: polish the surface with an abrasive 2000–3000 with pasta 3M 09374, then apply an additional coat of varnish.

How to care for 1b1b paint so that it retains its appearance longer?

Care Tips:

• 🚿 Wash your car no more than once every 2 weeks, using contactless shampoos (for example, Karcher RM 530).
• 🧴 Apply protective wax (eg Collinite 845) every 3 months.
• ☀️ Avoid parking in direct sunlight - UV rays will cause pigments to fade faster.

For 1b1b Abrasive polishes and car washes with brushes are strictly not recommended!

Is it possible to paint a part in 1b1b yourself without experience?

Theoretically, yes, but for a quality result you will need:

• 🛠️ Spray gun with pressure adjustment (optimally 2–2.5 bar).
• 🌡️ Infrared drying (or a warm room with ventilation).
• 🎓 Minimal skills in working with metallics (for example, the ability to apply a “wet” coat).

Without this, the risk of getting uneven color or varnish defects is ~70%. For the first painting, it is better to practice on an unnecessary part.