Chevrolet Super Red (71U/WA238L) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This is the quintessential city-car red. During its peak years, it was the go-to choice for the Aveo and Matiz, giving those small frames a burst of energy that made them impossible to miss in a parking lot. It is a bright, honest primary red that does not hide behind pearls or effects. Because your Optra has likely been out in the elements for over a decade, you should expect the original finish to be slightly more muted than the fresh paint in your hand. Red is a high-energy color that takes a beating from the sun, so do not be surprised if your repair looks a bit more vibrant than the surrounding panels until it has time to weather.

Technical Details

This finish is a solid, meaning it lacks metallic flakes. While this makes your job easier because you do not have to worry about flakes standing up at different angles, red pigments are notoriously transparent. If you try to cover a dark scratch or a grey primer in one heavy pass, the color will look muddy and dark. This paint needs built-up depth to reach its true hue. Since there is no metallic to hide imperfections, any grit or dust on the surface will show up clearly, so make sure your workspace in the garage or the shade is as clean as possible before you begin.

Best Practices

You will usually find your ID sticker inside the glove box or on the driver's side door jamb. Before you spray or dab Chevrolet Super Red (check for code 71U/WA238L), you need to shake the container for at least 60 seconds. Red pigments are heavy and settle quickly, so thorough mixing is the only way to get the right shade. Always test the color on the included card first to see how many layers you need to achieve full coverage. When you are ready for the car, keep the container moving at a steady pace to avoid pooling. Allow plenty of drying time between your layers to ensure the finish stays flat and professional.