Chevrolet Medium Smoke Gray Metallic (90U/9739/L-13) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This shade is a time capsule from the era of the first-generation Geo Prizm, representing a period when efficiency and durability were the main selling points. It is a workhorse color that excels at hiding road salt and everyday dust, making it a favorite for those who value a low-maintenance appearance. Since your vehicle has been on the road for over thirty years, the original finish has likely developed a soft patina. This makes your touch-up work more about preserving the integrity of the metal rather than achieving a factory-fresh shimmer, though this gray still holds its own in the sunlight.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, meaning it is packed with tiny flakes that provide its depth. Metallic paints are prone to a phenomenon called mottling, where those tiny flakes bunch up and create dark, uneven patches or stripes. This happens when the paint is applied too heavily or if the flakes are not distributed evenly in the liquid. If you apply it too thick in one pass, the gray can end up looking muddy or inconsistent. Achieving a professional look requires patience and a focus on thin, even coverage to let the metallic particles sit flat.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Chevrolet Medium Smoke Gray Metallic (check for code 90U/9739/L-13), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. You can find your paint code on the Service Parts Identification sticker, which is usually tucked away in the glove box or occasionally found in the spare tire well. Test the color on the included card to see how the metallic flakes behave before moving to the car. Whether you are using a nozzle or a brush, keep the container moving to ensure the metallic mixture stays consistent. Apply the paint in light, thin layers and allow plenty of drying time between each one to prevent the flakes from shifting and ruining the finish.