Kia Dark Rose Red Pearl (R8) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This shade was the signature choice for the Kia Amanti during its mid-2000s run. It is a deep, wine-inspired red that was designed to make that sedan look like a high-end luxury cruiser. Since your car has likely spent two decades under the sun, the original finish might have shifted toward a flatter maroon. This color is not meant to be bright or aggressive. It is a mature, somber red that relies on depth and richness rather than a loud, sporty flash.

Technical Details

The pearl in the name is the part you need to respect. Unlike a solid color, this finish contains tiny flakes that reflect light at different angles. This presents a specific challenge. If you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, the flakes will sink and create a dark, muddy patch. If you apply it too thin, the repair will look transparent and weak. Because it is a dark red, any unevenness will show up as shadows or stripes. You need to achieve a consistent thickness to ensure the particles sit evenly on the surface so they can catch the light correctly.

Best Practices

You can find your paint code on the silver or black sticker located inside the driver side door jamb. Before you spray or dab Kia Dark Rose Red Pearl (check for code R8), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to wake up those settled pearls. Test the color on the included card to see how many layers you need to match the current level of fade on your panels. When applying, keep the container moving and focus on light, even passes. This color requires a clear coat to bring out the shine, but wait for the proper drying time between the color and the clear to avoid dragging the red pigment into your final finish.