Jeep Dark Tan (matt) (Hard top color) (VK9) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This is the grit and soul of the late-nineties Jeep era. Used between 1999 and 2002 across the entire lineup, this shade defines the classic desert-runner aesthetic for the TJ Wrangler and XJ Cherokee. It isn't meant to shine or turn heads at a show; it is a utilitarian, rugged finish designed to complement the textured fiberglass of your roof. Since your Jeep has likely spent the last two decades battling the sun and trail brush, the original finish might look a little parched. This color does a fine job of hiding dust, but matching it requires respecting its flat, no-nonsense personality.

Technical Details

You are working with a solid finish. There are no metallic flakes or pearl highlights here to complicate the process, which makes the actual application straightforward. The real challenge lies in the matte nature of the paint. Unlike the glossy paint on your hood, you cannot sand or polish a mistake out of this finish. If you try to buff a run or a smudge, you will create a permanent shiny spot that stands out against the rest of the muted roof. It is a one-shot deal where the texture is just as important as the color itself.

Best Practices

You will usually find your paint code on the driver's side door jamb sticker or stamped onto a metal plate on the firewall under the hood. Before you spray or dab Jeep Dark Tan (matt) (Hard top color) (check for code VK9), you need to shake the container for at least sixty seconds. This is vital because the flattening agents that create the matte look settle at the bottom; if you don't mix them thoroughly, the paint will come out looking too glossy. Always test the color on the included card to ensure the shade matches your weathered top. When you start, keep the container moving to avoid heavy buildup, and give it plenty of drying time in a covered garage or a patch of shade before you touch the surface.