Infiniti Imperial Black (GAL) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This is not your average rental-fleet black. Originally launched as an exclusive finish for the high-end Limited trims of the QX80 and QX60, this color was designed to make a massive vehicle look like a single piece of polished jewelry. Because your Infiniti has likely been on the road for several seasons, the original finish has probably faced its share of car washes and road salt. While this deep tone is excellent at hiding the occasional layer of dust, the pearl highlights mean that any deep scratch or rock chip will stand out like a sore thumb when the sun hits the panel.

Technical Details

Imperial Black is a complex pearl finish, which is much different than a standard solid black. It contains tiny mica flakes that catch the light to create depth. If you apply the paint too thick or too fast, these flakes will clump together, making the repair look like a dark, muddy bruise on your door or hood. You want to focus on a light, steady flow to ensure those pearls lay down flat and even. It is a finicky finish that demands patience, but the way it transforms from a deep obsidian to a shimmering charcoal in direct light makes the effort worth it.

Best Practices

You will find your paint ID on the manufacturer sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb, usually right near the bottom of the pillar. Before you spray or dab Infiniti Imperial Black (check for code GAL), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This step is vital because the heavy pearl particles settle at the bottom and must be fully integrated to get a match. Test the color on the included card and let it dry completely to verify the shade. Always work in the shade to prevent the metal from getting too hot, and give the area plenty of drying time between light coats. Keep the container moving at all times to avoid pooling, which is the fastest way to ruin a pearl finish.