Dodge Candy Apple Red Pearl Tricoat (H2/RH2) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Since your Intrepid or Caravan has spent decades on the road, you likely know that this shade defines the late-nineties Dodge aesthetic. It gave the sleek, cab-forward lines of the Stratus a depth that basic solid colors could not match. It is a bold, energetic red that shifts in the sun, making it one of the more iconic choices from that era. Even after twenty-five years, a well-kept panel in this color still draws the eye with its deep, candy-like glow.

Technical Details

This finish is a pearl tri-coat, which means it relies on multiple layers to create its signature look. Unlike a simple metallic, this process uses a solid base layer followed by a semi-transparent pearl middle layer. Because of this complexity, the color looks different depending on the light or the angle. The main challenge with a tri-coat is how many layers of the pearl you use. Applying too many layers makes the repair look dark, while applying too few leaves the finish looking flat and orange. Matching a weathered 1990s finish requires patience, so you must pay close attention to the depth of the red as you build your layers.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Dodge Candy Apple Red Pearl Tricoat (check for code H2/RH2), you need to shake the container for at least 60 seconds to ensure the pearl particles are evenly distributed. You can usually find your paint code on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb or stamped into the metal radiator support under the hood. Test the color on the included card first to see how many layers of the pearl coat you need to hit the right shade. When applying the paint, keep the container moving to avoid heavy spots that can cause the pearl to bunch up and look blotchy. Allow plenty of drying time between your light coats to build the finish safely in your garage or a patch of shade.