Dodge Black (Hard top color) (HCX) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Your 1998 Dodge Viper RT/10 was built for the open air, but the removable hardtop turned it into a different beast entirely. This specific shade provides a sharp, high-contrast break from the bold body colors like Viper Red or Dandelion Yellow. Because this color is synonymous with the Viper accessory line, it carries a professional, factory-spec aesthetic that makes the car look complete rather than like a project. It is a deep, focused black that gives the roof a heavy, solid appearance, anchoring the silhouette of the car when the weather turns or you want that coupe-like profile.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, which means it lacks the metallic flakes or pearls found in the body paint of many modern vehicles. Solid blacks are the ultimate double-edged sword for an owner. On one hand, they offer the deepest, most "ink-like" reflection possible because there are no metal particles to disrupt the light. On the other hand, this finish is a magnet for dust and will highlight even the tiniest swirl marks or scratches. Since your Viper has been on the road since the late nineties, the original paint on the top has likely seen some UV exposure. Before you spray or dab Dodge Black (Hard top color) (check for code HCX), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to ensure the pigments are fully integrated for a deep, uniform match.

Best Practices

You can usually find your paint code on the manufacturing sticker located on the driver's side door jamb or tucked under the hood on the radiator support. Before you begin the actual repair, test the color on the included card to confirm the shade matches your current level of gloss. Black absorbs heat quickly, so make sure you are working in a cool garage or the shade; if the surface is too hot, the paint will dry before it has a chance to level out. Whether you are using a pen or a spray can, keep the container moving at a steady pace to avoid heavy spots. Because this is a solid color, you should apply several thin layers rather than one thick one. This prevents the paint from sagging and ensures the repair sits flush with the rest of the hardtop.