Lincoln Light Sage Effect (NH) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color captures the specific era of mid-2000s American luxury. It was a sophisticated choice for the 2007 and 2008 lineups, appearing on everything from the stately Town Car to the more modern MKZ and Zephyr. Rather than a flat, grassy green, this shade is a muted, earthy hybrid that shifts between a soft olive and a champagne gold depending on the light. If you are working on an Aviator from this period, keep in mind that the sun has likely spent nearly two decades softening the original pigment. Because the color is so subtle, it is excellent at hiding road dust, but it requires a careful hand to ensure your repair does not stand out as a dark smudge against the aged factory finish.

Technical Details

The "Effect" in the name tells you exactly what to expect: this is a metallic finish packed with fine light-reflecting particles. These flakes are what give the paint its depth, but they are also your biggest challenge. If the metallic particles do not lay down evenly, you will end up with mottling-those dark, cloudy patches or stripes that happen when the flakes cluster together. This is especially noticeable on the flat surfaces of an MKZ hood or the long doors of a Town Car. Before you spray or dab Lincoln Light Sage Effect (check for code NH), you need to shake the container for at least 60 seconds to ensure those heavy metallic bits are fully suspended in the mix.

Best Practices

You will find your paint code on the driver's side door jamb sticker, listed next to the "EXT PNT" label. Before you begin the repair, find a spot in your garage or a patch of shade where the metal is cool to the touch. Test the color on the included card first to see how the flakes settle. When you move to the car, apply the paint in very thin, light layers. If you are using a pen or brush, avoid the temptation to fill a deep chip in one go; heavy dabs will cause the metallic flakes to sink to the bottom, making the spot look much darker than the rest of the panel. Give each layer enough drying time to become tacky before adding the next. Keeping the container moving during application is the best way to ensure the sage and gold tones blend naturally with your original paint.