Suzuki Star Silver Metallic (ZMU) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Your Suzuki likely wears its silver like a well-traveled uniform, whether it is the rugged SX-4, the nimble Alto, or the Kizashi. This shade was a staple for Suzuki during the early 2010s because it is incredibly effective at hiding road dust and salt. Since your car has probably spent the last decade facing the elements, the paint has likely dulled a bit. When you approach a repair, remember that you are working with a finish that has earned its keep on the road, and a fresh touch-up will instantly subtract years from the car's appearance.

Technical Details

This is a Metallic finish, which means the paint is packed with microscopic flakes designed to catch and reflect light. The biggest challenge with any silver metallic is mottling-the appearance of dark streaks or "clouds" where the flakes have clumped together. This usually happens if the paint is applied too thick or too fast. However, the upside is that silver is one of the easiest colors to blend. Once those flakes are laid down evenly, they do a fantastic job of masking the transition between the old paint and your new repair.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Suzuki Star Silver Metallic (check for code ZMU on the firewall plate behind the engine or inside the driver door jamb), you must shake the container for a full minute. Those metallic particles are heavy and will sink to the bottom if they aren't agitated constantly. Test the color on the included card first to verify the shade and the flake distribution. When you move to the car, keep the container moving at all times to ensure a light, even mist. Applying several thin layers with plenty of drying time in between will prevent the silver from looking too dark or uneven.