Lexus Gray Metallic (Cladding) (UCAA3) Touch Up Paint

The Look

If you own an ES300 or an IS200 from the turn of the millennium, you know this color well. It is the rugged, darker contrast that sits on the lower half of your car, protecting the body lines and giving that classic two-tone Lexus aesthetic. Since your vehicle has likely been on the road for over two decades, this cladding has faced the worst of the road debris and sun. Restoring Lexus Gray Metallic (Cladding) (code UCAA3) is about more than just a quick fix; it is about bringing back the factory-fresh definition that made these models look anchored and expensive.

Technical Details

This is a true metallic finish, which means it relies on tiny flakes to catch the light. Metallics are finicky because those flakes like to settle at the bottom of the container or clump together if you apply the paint too heavily. If the flakes bunch up, you will see dark splotches or "mottling" instead of a smooth, even gray. To avoid this, you must keep the container moving and avoid the temptation to soak the surface in one heavy coat. Several light passes will yield a far better result than trying to find coverage all at once.

Best Practices

Before you begin, open your driver's side door and look at the identification sticker on the jamb. You are looking for the "C/TR" line, where the trim code should confirm you have the right match. To get the flakes to behave, shake your container for a full minute to ensure the metallic particles are suspended in the mix. Test the color on the included card to see how the flakes lay down before you touch the car. When you are ready, work in a cool garage or the shade. Keep a consistent spray distance or use light, thin strokes with your brush, and give it plenty of drying time between layers to ensure the finish remains crisp and professional.