Subaru Crystal Black Silica Pearl (D4S/EH3) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color is a chameleon that defines the modern Subaru aesthetic. When you see it on a BRZ or a Forester from the 2014 to 2017 era, it initially looks like a standard, deep black. However, once you pull the car out of the garage and into the direct sun, the silica flakes wake up to reveal a complex sparkle that adds incredible depth. If you drive an Impreza or a Legacy in this shade, you already know it is a high-maintenance relationship. It shows every grain of pollen and every water spot, but when it is clean and the light hits those glass-like particles, it looks far more expensive than a standard flat black.

Technical Details

This is a pearl finish, which means it relies on transparent layers and light-reflecting particles rather than simple pigment. Because it is a pearl, the final look depends entirely on how the flakes settle. If you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, the repair will look darker or "muddy" compared to the rest of the panel. If the layers are too thin, the finish might look slightly grey. Your goal is to achieve an even distribution of the silica so that the repair catches the light at the same angle as the factory paint. It is a rewarding color to work with, but it demands patience to get that signature "ink-well" depth.

Best Practices

You can usually find your paint code on a silver metallic plate located on the passenger side door jamb or stamped onto one of the strut towers under the hood. Before you spray or dab Subaru Crystal Black Silica Pearl (check for code D4S/EH3), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is the most important step because the heavy silica flakes naturally settle at the bottom of the container. Test the color on the included card to ensure the flake density looks right before moving to your car. Keep the container moving as you apply the paint to prevent the pearl from pooling in one area. Give the repair plenty of drying time between coats to ensure the finish stays crisp and clear.