Lexus Red Pearl (3M8) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color is a time capsule from the turn of the millennium. It was the flagship shade for the original RX300, offering a deep, berry-toned alternative to the standard silvers of the era. It is not a bright racing red. It is a sophisticated, dark cherry that looks expensive even after decades on the road. Since your Lexus has likely spent over twenty years in the sun, you should expect the original finish to have a different character than the fresh paint in your hand.

Technical Details

This is a pearl finish, not a simple solid or a basic metallic. Pearl paints use mica flakes to create a sense of depth that changes as you walk around the car. This translucency is what makes the color beautiful, but it also creates a challenge for repairs. If you apply the paint in thick coats, the finish will appear dark and muddy. To get the match right, you have to build the color in light layers. If the color looks too light at first, do not panic. The depth comes from the build-up of those mica particles over several passes.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Lexus Red Pearl (check for code 3M8), you need to shake the container for at least sixty seconds. Those mica flakes are heavy and settle at the bottom of the container. You can find your official paint code on the VIN sticker located on the driver's side door jamb. Always test the color on the included card before touching the car to see how the layers change the shade. When you begin, keep the container moving to ensure the finish stays even and does not pool. Allow plenty of drying time between each thin layer to ensure the mica sits correctly in the finish.