Ford Ruby Red Tricoat (RR) Touch Up Paint

The Look

You aren't just looking at a red car; you are looking at one of the most sophisticated finishes Ford has ever put on a production line. Whether it is on a Fusion or an Escape, this color has a deep, liquid quality that mimics a custom candy shop job. It makes the lines of an Edge look sharper and gives the C-MAX a premium weight that standard colors lack. It is a high-maintenance choice that rewards you with incredible depth in direct sunlight, but it can look like a dark maroon in the shade. Since your car has likely been on the road for a few seasons, the finish has likely matured, making a careful touch-up even more important to maintain that glow.

Technical Details

This is a pearl metallic tricoat, which means the depth comes from light passing through a translucent middle layer and bouncing off a metallic base. This is the boss level of touch-up paint. Because it relies on these layers, you cannot simply glob it on and expect a match. The metallic flakes in the base are heavy; if they aren't suspended perfectly, they will cluster together and create dark spots or "bruises" in the finish. Before you apply Ford Ruby Red Tricoat (verify your door jamb shows code RR), you should understand that the final shade depends entirely on how many thin layers you apply.

Best Practices

Start by locating your paint code on the driver's side door jamb sticker-it will be next to the "EXT PNT" label. Because the metallic and pearl particles settle quickly, you must shake the container for at least a full minute to get the right flow. Test the color on the included card before you touch the car to see how many layers of the mid-coat you need to reach the right depth. When applying, keep the container moving to prevent the paint from pooling. Work in a cool garage or the shade to ensure the drying time remains consistent between layers. If you rush the process, the metallic bits won't lay flat, and you'll lose that signature sparkle that makes this color famous.