Pontiac Bordeaux Red Metallic (49/WA204M) Touch Up Paint

The Look

You usually find this color on the final years of the Bonneville or the family-hauling Montana SV6, and it carries a certain level of executive maturity. It is not a loud, fire-engine red that screams for attention; instead, it is a deep, wine-inspired burgundy that looks expensive under evening lights. Since your Pontiac has likely spent over fifteen years facing the sun and the road, you will probably notice the original finish has darkened or lost some of its depth. This shade is excellent at hiding light road dust, but it reveals its true character when the metallic flakes catch a direct beam of light.

Technical Details

This is a true metallic finish, which means the bottle or can is packed with tiny flakes that provide that signature shimmer. The biggest challenge with a metallic like this is mottling-where the flakes bunch up and create dark spots or uneven "tiger stripes." This happens if the paint is applied too heavily in one spot or if the tool is held too close to the surface. Before you spray or dab Pontiac Bordeaux Red Metallic (check for code 49/WA204M), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. Constant agitation is the only way to keep those heavy metallic particles from sinking to the bottom, ensuring the color you apply matches the color on your fender.

Best Practices

First, verify your color by looking for the service parts sticker; on a Bonneville, check the spare tire cover or the underside of the trunk lid, while Montana owners should look inside the glove box. When you are ready to begin, work in a cool garage or the shade to prevent the paint from drying before it can level out. Test the color on the included card to get a feel for the flow and to ensure the shade is right. When applying the color, keep the container moving in steady, overlapping passes. If you use a brush or pen for chips, use light dabs rather than long strokes to avoid dragging the metallic flakes into a clump. Allow plenty of drying time between light coats, and always finish with a clear coat to lock in that metallic glow.