Honda Sahara Sand Metallic (YR-550M) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This earthy gold tone arrived just in time for the mid-2000s adventure SUV craze. It was a defining choice for the second-generation CR-V and the original HR-V, offering a more rugged, outdoorsy vibe than the standard silvers of the era. Since your Honda has likely been on the road for nearly two decades, you have probably noticed that this color is a champion at hiding road dust and light grime. It is a warm, forgiving shade that carries a nostalgic glow, though it can lose its luster if the clear coat begins to thin from years of sun exposure.

Technical Details

This is a true metallic finish, which means it relies on tiny flakes to catch the light. While these flakes provide great depth, they present a specific challenge for home repairs. If you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, those flakes will bunch together or sink, creating dark, cloudy patches known as mottling. This is why the finish looks different from various angles. To keep the color consistent across the repair, you must focus on thin, even layers rather than trying to cover the damage in a single pass.

Best Practices

You can find your factory ID tag located on the driver side door jamb, usually near the bottom of the pillar. Before you spray or dab Honda Sahara Sand Metallic (check for code YR-550M), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is non-negotiable for metallic paints because the heavy flakes settle at the bottom of the reservoir. To ensure the flake distribution looks right, test the color on the included card first. When you move to the car, keep the container moving at a steady pace and work in the shade to prevent the paint from drying before it has a chance to level out. Once the color is dry to the touch, you will need a clear coat to bring back the original gloss and protect the metallic particles from the elements.