Smart Graphite Pearl (ECH/CD6L) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Your Fortwo might be small, but this color gives it a heavy, premium presence that belies its size. Appearing during the 2015 and 2016 launch window for the redesigned generation, this shade moves away from the toy-like brights often associated with city cars and toward something much more sophisticated. Since your car has likely spent the last decade navigating tight parking spots and narrow urban lanes, the lower panels have probably seen their share of curb rash and door dings. This deep, moody grey does a decent job of hiding road film, but once the sun hits it, the finish reveals a complexity that makes it worth the effort of a proper touch-up.

Technical Details

This is a pearl finish, which is fundamentally different from a standard metallic. While metallics use flat flakes to bounce light, a pearl finish uses ceramic-like particles that allow light to pass through and refract, giving the paint a deep shimmer and a subtle color shift. The risk here is depth. If you apply the paint too thick in one spot, the pearl particles will clump together and create a dark, muddy patch that won't match the rest of the car. If you apply it too thin, the repair will look transparent. You are aiming for several thin layers to build up the color density until it matches the surrounding factory finish.

Best Practices

You can find your paint code on the driver's side door jamb, usually on a sticker located near the latch. Before you apply Smart Graphite Pearl (verify code ECH/CD6L on your pillar), you must shake the container for at least two full minutes. The pearl particles are heavier than the pigment and will settle at the bottom; if they aren't fully mixed, your repair will lack the necessary shimmer. Test the color on the included card first to ensure the shade is right. When applying, keep the container moving to avoid "puddling" the pearls. Give the repair enough drying time between layers so the particles can set properly rather than sinking into a wet base.