Dodge Salsa Red Pearl (E5/WE5) Touch Up Paint

The Look

If you are driving a Neon from the turn of the millennium, you know this color defines that era of Dodge design. It was a bold choice for a car that did not take itself too seriously. Because your vehicle has likely spent two decades in the sun, you should expect some level of natural fading compared to a fresh coat. This red has a distinct personality that shifts from a deep crimson in the shade to a bright, spicy glow when the sun hits the metallic particles.

Technical Details

This is a true Pearl finish, which means it relies on tiny mica crystals to refract light rather than just reflecting it like a standard metallic. This makes the repair slightly more complex than a solid red. If you apply it too heavily in one spot, the pearls will bunch up and create dark, muddy patches known as mottling. To avoid this, you must ensure the mica stays suspended in the liquid. If the finish looks inconsistent as you work, it is usually because the particles have settled at the bottom of the container.

Best Practices

Start by finding your identification sticker, which is usually located on the driver side door jamb or occasionally on the radiator support under the hood. Before you spray or dab Dodge Salsa Red Pearl (check for code E5/WE5), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is non-negotiable for a pearl finish. Test the color on the included card to see how the light hits the flakes before you touch the car. When applying, keep the container moving to ensure the pearls lay down evenly across the surface. Once you finish, give the area plenty of drying time in a covered garage or a patch of shade to prevent dust from settling into the new finish.