Pontiac Gold Mist Metallic (51/WA316N/WA216N) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color defined a specific era for Pontiac, appearing on everything from the daily-driver Grand Prix and G6 to the family-oriented Montana SV6. It is the ultimate low-maintenance shade. It masks road salt and dust better than almost anything else in the GM catalog from that period. Since your vehicle has likely seen its fair share of highways over the last decade, you will notice that this shade holds its dignity well against the sun, though it can look a bit dull if the clear coat starts to thin. It is a mature, sophisticated choice that doesn't scream for attention but rewards a clean wash with a warm, sandy glow.

Technical Details

Because you are working with Pontiac Gold Mist Metallic (check for code 51/WA316N/WA216N), you are dealing with a heavy load of fine metallic flakes. These flakes are what give the car its glow, but they can be temperamental. If you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, the flakes will sink and bunch up, creating dark streaks or patchy spots. This happens because the heavy particles settle differently depending on the thickness of the coat. You want to maintain a consistent flow to ensure the light hits the surface evenly across the repair area.

Best Practices

Before you begin, find your Service Parts Identification label to verify the match; on most Pontiac models, you will find this sticker inside the glove box or tucked under the trunk carpet near the spare tire. Once you are ready, shake the container for at least a full minute to get those settled flakes back into the mix. Test the color on the included card first to see how the metallic particles lay down. Whether you use a nozzle or a brush, keep the container moving and apply several thin layers rather than one thick one. Give the surface plenty of drying time in a covered garage or the shade before you move on to your clear coat.