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

The Look

This is the quintessential fire-engine red. It was used on the Matiz and Optra to give those practical, compact commuters a much-needed personality boost. Since your car has likely been on the road for over a decade, you probably notice that this color still demands attention. It is a loud, unapologetic shade that works because it doesn't try to be subtle. On a smaller car like the Matiz, it makes the vehicle feel more substantial, while on the Optra, it provides a sporty edge that helps the car stand out in a parking lot full of greys and silvers.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, which means you do not have to worry about metallic flakes settling unevenly or creating stripes. However, solid reds are notoriously sensitive to the sun. Over the years, UV rays can cause the original paint on your hood or roof to lose its bite, turning a deep red into a slightly chalky pink. When you apply new paint to a chip or a scratch, the fresh pigment might look darker or more vibrant than the weathered panels around it. This is normal for a ten-year-old finish, but it means you should focus on thin layers to help the transition look more natural.

Best Practices

You can usually find your paint code on the service identification sticker inside the glove box or on the driver's side door pillar. Before you spray or dab Chevrolet Super Red (check for code 71U/WA238L/GGE), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. Red pigments are heavy and like to settle at the bottom of the container, so thorough mixing is the only way to get the right depth. Test the color on the included card to see how it looks once it is dry. When you are ready to work, keep the container moving and apply light coats rather than one thick one. This prevents the paint from sagging and keeps your drying time short. If you are working in a Garage or the Shade, make sure the surface is cool to the touch before you begin.