1. Request Printable FAKRA Color Code Chart (PDF)
The downloadable PDF includes:
- Complete 14-code color reference chart with color swatches
- Mechanical keying diagrams for field identification
- Application-to-code quick-reference matrix
- Workshop and assembly line printable format
2. Complete FAKRA Color Code Table (14 Standard Codes)
| Code | Color | Application | Frequency | Waterproof? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Black | Universal / DAB radio / General RF | DC – 6 GHz | No |
| B | White | USB 1.0/2.0, auxiliary input | DC – 1 GHz | No |
| C | Blue | GPS / GNSS antenna | 1.2 – 1.6 GHz | No |
| D | Bordeaux Violet | Cellular / 3G / 4G / 5G | 0.7 – 4.2 GHz | No |
| E | Green | Ethernet (100BASE-T1, legacy) | DC – 100 MHz | No |
| F | Brown | Keyless entry / TPMS | 315 – 433 MHz | No |
| G | Gray | Test & measurement (reserved) | DC – 6 GHz | No |
| H | Purple | Bluetooth / Wi-Fi / V2X | 2.4 – 5.9 GHz | No |
| I | Beige | Reserved — rarely used | — | — |
| K | Curry Yellow | Satellite radio (SDARS: Sirius/XM) | 2.32 – 2.345 GHz | No |
| L | Light Green | Camera video (analog CVBS) | DC – 50 MHz | No |
| M | Orange | Analog video / reserved | DC – 1 GHz | No |
| N | Light Blue | Reserved — special applications | — | — |
| Z | Water Blue | Universal waterproof (IP67/IP69K) | DC – 6 GHz | Yes |
Complete FAKRA color code chart — print-ready for workshop and lab reference
3. How FAKRA Mechanical Keying Works
FAKRA color codes are not just visual — they correspond to mechanical keying. The plastic housing of each code has a unique internal geometry (ribs and slots) that physically prevents a connector of one code from mating with a receptacle of another code.
Three ways to identify a FAKRA code in the field:
- Color: The most obvious, but colors fade with heat and UV exposure. On vehicles older than 5 years, do not rely on color alone.
- Secondary locking tab shape: Each code has a unique tab profile. The downloadable PDF includes a mechanical keying template for field comparison.
- Application context: A connector running from the roof antenna to the head unit is almost certainly Code C (GPS) or Code D (cellular). Use context to verify your identification.
4. Code A vs Code Z: Universal vs Waterproof
| Feature | Code A (Black) | Code Z (Water Blue) |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical performance | Identical (50 Ω, DC – 6 GHz) | Identical (50 Ω, DC – 6 GHz) |
| Waterproof rating | None (standard) | IP67 or IP69K (with integrated seal) |
| Mating compatibility | Mates with Code A receptacles only | Mates with Code A and Z receptacles (universal fit) |
| Typical use | Interior (cabin, behind dash) | Exterior (shark-fin, bumper, external cameras) |
| Cost difference | Baseline | ~10-20% higher due to sealing ring |
5. Common Mistakes When Matching FAKRA Colors
- Assuming color = application without checking keying: Some aftermarket cables use the wrong color housing. Always verify the mechanical keying, not just the color.
- Mixing Code A and Code E (green): Both are black/dark and can appear similar in poor lighting. Code E was originally assigned to Ethernet (100BASE-T1) but is declining in new designs.
- Using Code Z for interior applications unnecessarily: Code Z costs more. If the connector is inside the cabin with no water exposure, Code A is sufficient and cheaper.
- Forcing a mismatched connector: If a FAKRA plug does not slide in smoothly, do not force it. The keying is preventing a mismatch — forcing it will damage both connectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many FAKRA color codes are there?
A: 14 standard codes (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, K, L, M, N, Z). Additional OEM-proprietary codes exist but are not part of DIN 72594-1. Each code has unique mechanical keying geometry.
Q: What does FAKRA Code Z (water blue) mean?
A: Code Z is the waterproof universal variant with integrated IP67/IP69K sealing ring. Electrically identical to Code A — used for exterior applications like shark-fin antennas and bumper-mounted sensors.
Q: Can I use a different color code in an emergency?
A: No. Mechanical keying prevents mismating. In an emergency, use Code A (universal) or Z (waterproof universal). Never force a mismatched connector.
Q: What is the difference between FAKRA and Mini FAKRA color codes?
A: FAKRA uses 14 application-specific codes. Mini FAKRA uses channel-position colors (white=Ch1, yellow=Ch2, green=Ch3, blue=Ch4). The two systems are completely different and not interchangeable.
Q: Where can I download a printable FAKRA chart?
A: Request the free PDF via our contact page. Includes all 14 codes with color swatches, frequency ranges, mechanical keying diagrams, and a workshop-ready quick reference format.
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