Compatible with the following Mazdas:

Models: Tribute
Years: 2006

To determine if Dark Shadow Gray Metallic (matt) is the correct color, check your vehicle's color code. It should match the paint color code, which is M7039.

Color Match Guarantee

Color Match Guarantee

We guarantee a perfect match, or we'll replace your paint for free!

Free Shipping on Orders $149+

Free Shipping on Orders $149+

Mixed fresh to order & shipped within 3–5 business days

Affordable DIY Repairs

Affordable DIY Repairs

Beginner-friendly products at a fraction of the cost of bodyshops

American-Owned Family Business

American-Owned Family Business

Established in 1999 and trusted by 1,050,000+ car owners

Where to find Mazda color code

How to Find Your Mazda's Color Code

Mazda color codes are normally on the drivers door jamb; some models hide them in the engine compartment. If not on the drivers door jamb, finding the code may take extra work. Codes are typically two or three digits, made of numbers and letters. Example: 21R. 21R is called Moonlight Gray Metallic Clearcoat in one naming, Grey Clearcoat by another name, or Moonstone Clearcoat by another name. Marketing may change the color name.

More about Mazda color codes
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Custom paint for your Mazda

Skip Expensive Body Shops – Do It Yourself!

Whether you're an absolute beginner or a seasoned professional, you can achieve a high-quality paint job on your Mazda in the comfort of your own home.

PaintScratch proudly offers simple, beginner-friendly products in Dark Shadow Gray Metallic (matt) that do not require any fancy equipment. For the serious car fanatic, you can find ready-to-spray large-sized paints.

Your Paint Color Profile

Dark Shadow Gray Metallic (matt)

The Look

Your Tribute likely relies on this rugged, industrial shade to ground its utilitarian design. This is not a color meant for the red carpet; it is a workhorse gray that excels at hiding road salt and grime while giving the vehicle a sturdy, mechanical aesthetic. Because it was so common on the lower cladding and bumpers of mid-2000s Mazdas, it has a distinct "trail-ready" vibe. It bridges the gap between a modern metallic and a tactical flat finish, making your car look like it can handle a gravel road without breaking a sweat.

Technical Details

This finish is a bit of a hybrid. It contains metallic flakes for depth, but it is designed with a matte sheen. This combination presents a specific challenge: if you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, those metallic particles will clump together and create dark streaks or "tiger stripes." Furthermore, because it lacks a high-gloss topcoat, you have to be careful not to rub the area too hard once it is dry. Excessive friction can "burnish" the surface, turning a flat area into a shiny one that won't match the rest of the trim. Before you spray or dab Mazda Dark Shadow Gray Metallic (matt) (check for code M7039), you must accept that thin, even coverage is the only way to keep the texture consistent.

Best Practices

You can find your paint code on the silver or black sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb. Before starting, move your vehicle into a cool garage or deep shade to prevent the surface from getting too hot, which can cause the paint to dry unevenly. Since the metallic flakes in this mixture are heavy and prone to settling, shake the container for at least a full minute to get them moving. Always test the color on the included card to ensure the metallic-to-matte balance looks right before you touch the car. Whether you are using a nozzle or a brush, keep the container moving across the repair area to avoid puddling. Give the paint plenty of drying time between very light layers, as building the color slowly is the best way to maintain that signature flat look.

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What Our Customers Are Saying

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Laura C.
Nov 21

Will absolutely order from this company again.

After ordering touch-up paint from Lexus I was still waiting for it a month later. If they'd told me upfront it would take that long I wouldn't have ordered in the first place. Paint Scratch was recommended by a friend who restores cars. Easy ordering, fair price and fast shipping. The color match is great especially considering my car is a 2012. Will absolutely order from this company again. Reason I chose this business: Lexus collision repair and a local collision repair. Will use paint less dent removal and touch up chipped paint myself. Reason I chose this product: Spouse sideswiped passenger side of car while backing out of garage. Mostly plastic transfer from his wheel well trim but pressure creased and cracked the paint causing a bare strip 1/8 wide x 4” long below door handle. Scratches on door handle and a few small chips on both doors.

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Javier A
Nov 26

Simply the best custom mixed paint in spray cans

Used Paint Scratch metallic custom mixed spray cans paint on a hood panel with excellent coverage and texture over the surface. Metallic paint can be very unforgiving out of a spray can, sputtering pigmentation dots on the panel being sprayed and thus ruining the paint job. No such issues with Paint Scratch custom mixed metallic paint spray cans. Paint sprayed strong and evenly till the last drop of paint in the can. Shipping time was faster than expected. Reason I chose this business: Having tried other brands of custom mixed metallic paint with terrible results, sputtering pigmentation tint dots from the spray nozzle in spite of vigorously shaking of can prior to application and loss of propellant rendering the lower fifth of the can's paint useless, Paint Scratch custom mixed metallic paint sprays out beautifully and strong all the way to the last gram of paint in the can. Simply the best custom mixed paint in spray cans for automotive restoration. Thank you Paint Scratch.

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Matt M.
Sept 6

My highest rating With No Reservations. A+

I am a multiple time purchaser from this company. Each time they have provided me high quality products that are reasonably priced. The products come in a timely manner well packaged. The resources they provide have given me excellent guidance about how to use their products. I give this company my highest rating With No Reservations. A+ Reason I chose this business: There is no comparison possible. They are in League of Their Own as far as I'm concerned.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my vehicle’s paint code?

Your paint code is usually found in the driver’s door jamb, trunk, or under the hood. See our Mazda Paint Code Guide for detailed instructions.

Will this paint match my car?

Yes. If your Mazda's color code is 'M7039', your paint is custom-mixed to factory specs and backed by our Color Match Guarantee. If the paint does not match your Mazda, we will send you a replacement or refund.

Do I need primer and clearcoat?

While primer is recommended on bare metal or plastic, clearcoat is essential: it protects the basecoat and restores factory gloss.

How long does shipping take?

Orders are mixed fresh and ship within 3–5 business days. Delivery takes 2–14 days depending on location.

Which touch up product should I choose?

 It depends on the size of the damage:

  • Paint Pen (½ oz) – Best for very small chips and fine scratches.
  • Brush Bottle (2 oz) – Great for medium chips or scratches up to the size of a quarter.
  • Spray Can – Ideal for larger areas and panels.
  • Professional Sizes (Pint, Quart, Gallon) – Designed for full panel and vehicle resprays using spray equipment.

Not sure? If it’s just rock chips or small scratches, start with a Paint Pen.

Can I return my order?

Yes! If there’s a color match issue, we’ll replace the product or give you your money back. You also can return unopened, non-custom accessories for a full refund.

How long will the paint last in storage?

Paint pens and bottles last about a year if stored cool and dry. Spray cans can last several years if the nozzle is cleaned.