Toyota Dark Gray Pearl Metallic (1F4) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color defined a rugged era for Toyota. Whether it is on a 4Runner or a Matrix, this shade is a deep, sophisticated gray that works harder than most. It is not just a flat charcoal; it has a personality that shifts depending on whether you are standing in a dim garage or out in the direct sun. Because these vehicles have likely been on the road for over a decade, your existing finish has probably faced its fair share of road debris and UV rays. This color is excellent at hiding road grime, but it requires a bit of finesse to match that original factory depth.

Technical Details

You are dealing with a pearl metallic finish. This means the paint contains tiny flakes that act like miniature mirrors to catch the light. This is where most people run into trouble. If you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, those flakes will clump together or sink, making the repair look much darker or blotchy compared to the rest of the panel. This clumping is often called mottling. To get the best result, you need to be mindful of the flow from your nozzle or brush. Thin layers are the only way to ensure those flakes lay down correctly and reflect light the way they did when the car left the factory.

Best Practices

You can find your paint code on the identification sticker located on the driver's side door jamb, usually listed right after the letters C/TR. Before you spray or dab Toyota Dark Gray Pearl Metallic (check for code 1F4), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is non-negotiable because those heavy metallic particles love to settle at the bottom of the container. Always test the color on the included card first to see how the flakes react to your application style. Keep the container moving at all times to avoid pooling. Once you have a thin layer down, give it plenty of drying time before adding another. Rushing the process will trap the flakes in a wet puddle, which ruins the metallic effect.