Paint code 1Z1Z - one of the most common shades in the palette ŠKODA, but its features often raise questions among owners. This color, known as "Quartz gray metallic" (or Quarzgrau Metallic in the original terminology), used on many models of the Czech brand, from compact Fabia to large crossovers Kodiaq. However, just knowing the name is not enough: for high-quality repairs or tuning you need to understand the nuances of selection, compatibility with other shades and application technology.

In this article we will look at where exactly on the body ŠKODA hiding code 1Z1Z, how to interpret it correctly, and why even original paint from a dealer can give a different visual effect depending on the year of manufacture of the car. You will also learn what analogues exist on the market, how to avoid common mistakes when tinting and what to do if the shade after painting does not match the factory one. The material is based on data from official catalogs ŠKODA, car service experience and owner reviews.

Where to look for paint code 1Z1Z on a ŠKODA car

On all models ŠKODA The paint code is duplicated in several places, but the most reliable sources are badge on driver's door pillar and service book. On the nameplate (usually white or silver), the paint code is indicated as LAK: 1Z1Z or just 1Z1Z, often next to the VIN number. In the service book, information may be indicated in the section "Technical data" or on the first page.

Less obvious places to find the code:

  • 🔧 Under the hood: On some models (eg Octavia A7) the code is duplicated on the plate next to the battery.
  • 🚗 Luggage compartment: y Superb and Kodiaq The nameplate can be glued to the inside of the trunk lid.
  • 📄 Sales and purchase agreement: if the car was purchased at a dealership, the paint code is sometimes indicated in the technical passport or acceptance certificate.

Important: on cars manufactured before 2010, the code 1Z1Z could be designated as 1Z or 1Z1 - this is due to changes in the encoding system Volkswagen Group. If you don't find an exact match, check these options.

📊 What ŠKODA model does your car belong to?
  • Octavia
  • Superb
  • Kodiaq
  • Fabia
  • Karoq
  • Yeti
  • Other

Decoding the 1Z1Z code: what do the symbols mean?

Code 1Z1Z follows the paint designation standard Volkswagen Group, where each position carries specific information:

  • 🔢 First digit ("1") - points to basic color group (in this case, shades of gray).
  • 🔤 Second letter ("Z") — determines tone subgroup (for metallics these are usually letters from W up to Z).
  • 🔢🔤 Third and fourth positions ("1Z") - a clarifying index that associates color with a specific application technology (for example, "metallic" or "mother of pearl").

Interesting fact: ŠKODA and Audi code 1Z1Z can mean the same color, but with different names. For example, at Audi this is "Achatgrau Metallic" (Agate gray metallic) and ŠKODA — "Quarzgrau Metallic". This is due to the concern’s marketing policy, but the chemical composition of the paint is identical.

Why can the 1Z1Z code differ on different models?

At the factory ŠKODA use several suppliers of paints and varnishes (for example, PPG and BASF). Even with the same code, the shade may vary slightly due to different batches of pigments. This is especially noticeable on models released in different years (for example, Octavia A5 vs Octavia A8).

Model ŠKODA Years of manufacture Color name (original) Notes
Octavia A5/A7 2008–2020 Quarzgrau Metallic The most common use of the code 1Z1Z
Superb II/III 2010–2023 Quarzgrau Metallic The shade is 5% lighter than Octavia
Kodiaq 2017–present time Quarzgrau Metallic Pigment with enhanced pearlescent effect is used
Fabia III 2014–2021 Quarzgrau Metallic More matte finish compared to other models

Selection of 1Z1Z paint analogues: what you need to know

If the original paint ŠKODA with code 1Z1Z is unavailable (for example, due to discontinuation of production of a batch), analogues from other manufacturers can be used. However, there are several critical nuances here:

⚠️ Attention: Marked paints "exact analogue" in practice they may differ by 10–15% in color tone. Always test the shade on a small area (such as the inside of a door) before painting completely.

The closest analogues from leading brands:

  • 🎨 PPG: D8565 (Quarzgrau Metallic) - recommended for models up to 2018.
  • 🎨 BASF: 1Z1Z / 9277 - a universal option, but requires adjustment to the base tone.
  • 🎨 Mobihel: M1Z1Z — a budget analogue, suitable for local repairs.
  • 🎨 Sikkens: U3550 — premium option with improved resistance to UV radiation.

When selecting an analogue, be sure to check year of manufacture of the car - for example, paint for Octavia 2015 and Octavia 2020 May vary due to changes in recipe. For accuracy, use a spectrophotometer (tinting device), which is available in most professional car repair shops.

Year of manufacture and car model|Country of production (European and Asian batches may differ)|Type of base (acrylic, alkyd, water-soluble)|Availability of a certificate of conformity VW 50180 (concern standard)|Reviews about a specific batch on owner forums-->

1Z1Z paint application technology: step-by-step instructions

Paint 1Z1Z refers to three-layer metallics, therefore its application requires strict adherence to technology. Errors at any stage lead to shade mismatches or defects (e.g. "fish eye"). Here are the key steps:

  1. Surface preparation: removal of old paintwork to metal (or plastic), degreasing with solvent PPG DX330.
  2. Primer: applying 2 layers of epoxy primer PPG DP40 with interlayer drying for 10 minutes.
  3. Base layer: spray paint 1Z1Z in 2–3 layers from a distance of 20–25 cm. Critical: the pressure on the gun must be 2.0–2.2 bar, otherwise the metal particles will fall unevenly.
  4. Varnish: applying 2 layers of varnish PPG G2000 with drying time between coats for 15 minutes.

The temperature in the spray booth should be 20–22°C, humidity - no higher than 60%. If these parameters are not observed, the varnish may become cloudy and the metallic may lose its shine. To check quality use checklist (apply it to the surface after each layer).

💡

If paint 1Z1Z after drying it turned out to be too dark, do not try to lighten it with a solvent - this will ruin the structure of the metallic. Instead, apply an additional coat of clear varnish with a UV filter (Sikkens Autoclear LV), which will visually “raise” the tone.

Typical mistakes when working with 1Z1Z paint and how to avoid them

Even professionals sometimes encounter problems when painting. 1Z1Z. Here are the most common mistakes and how to prevent them:

⚠️ Attention: If you use paint from different manufacturers (for example, base PPG, and varnish BASF), the risk of incompatibility of chemical components reaches 30%. Always check the compatibility table VW 50180.
Error Reason How to fix
The shade is too green Excess yellow pigment in the base Add 5% corrector BASF M295 (blue)
Matte spots after drying High humidity or air pollution Polish with paste 3M 05974 with abrasive 2000 grit
Shagreen is visible Incorrect pressure when spraying varnish Repaint with pressure 1.8–2.0 bar

Another common problem is "chameleon effect"when the color looks different from different angles. This is due to the uneven distribution of aluminum flakes in the base. To avoid this, use anti-silicone additive (PPG D8115) in a proportion of 10% of the volume of paint.

Compatibility of 1Z1Z paint with other ŠKODA colors

If you plan to combine 1Z1Z with other shades (for example, for two-tone painting or tuning), it is important to consider color temperature. Quartz gray refers to "cold" tones, so it goes better with:

  • 🔵 Blue: 5Q5Q (Lapis Blue) - contrast 85%.
  • ⚫ Black: 2T2T (Deep Black) - a classic combination.
  • ⚪ White: 0U0U (Candy White) - visually expands the car.

But with "warm" flowers (for example, 3U3U — Sunset Red) 1Z1Z can create disharmony. To check compatibility, use online services like ŠKODA Color Visualizer or test marks on samples.

💡

When combined 1Z1Z with glossy colors (eg Race Blue) be sure to use matte varnish at the joints - this will smooth out the transition and prevent optical distortion.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about 1Z1Z paint

Is it possible to tint 1Z1Z paint in a can for local repairs?

Yes, but with reservations. Companies like Motip or Dupli-Color offer tinting services to code 1Z1Z, however, in cans it is difficult to achieve the perfect shade due to the lack of precise pressure control. For small chips (up to 5 cm) this is acceptable, but for large areas it is better to use a spray gun.

Why did streaks appear after painting 1Z1Z?

This is a typical sign "under-drying" between layers or paint that is too thick. Solution: polish the surface with abrasive P1500–P2000, then apply an additional layer of varnish with hardener PPG D8117 (proportion 2:1).

Which solvent is best to use for diluting 1Z1Z?

For acrylic paints ŠKODA optimal solvent PPG DT870 (slow) or BASF 360-70. Avoid all-purpose solvents (eg. 646) - they can destroy metal pigments.

How much does the original 1Z1Z paint cost at the dealer?

The price depends on the volume and country:

  • 🇷🇺 Russia: 1 liter of base - ~3,500 rubles, varnish - ~2,800 rubles.
  • 🇩🇪 Germany: 1 liter of base - ~€45, varnish - ~€35.
  • 🇺🇸 USA: 1 quart (~0.95 l) - ~$80–$100.

Cost of tinting from official partners ŠKODA (for example, PPG Certified) is included in the price.