Toyota Super Red (3E5) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This is the heartbeat of the golden age of Japanese performance. If your Supra or MR2 wears this shade, it carries the weight of a generation that defined the 1990s street scene. It is a loud, unapologetic red that looks just as right on a workhorse Corolla as it does on a wide-body Celica. Because many of these cars have lived through decades of sun and weather, the paint on your panels has likely shifted toward a lighter, chalky orange or pink. You should expect the fresh paint to look deeper and more saturated than the aged finish surrounding your repair.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish. There are no metallic flakes or pearl particles to worry about, which makes the application much more forgiving for a DIY project. You won't have to worry about the orientation of the paint or "tiger stripes" ruining the effect. However, red pigments are heavy and can be translucent. If you are covering a dark primer or a deep scratch, it will take several thin layers to reach the correct depth of color. Solid reds are also honest; they show every bit of poor sanding or leftover grit, so your surface prep in the garage will determine the final quality.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Toyota Super Red (check for code 3E5), you need to shake the container for at least a full minute to mix those heavy pigments. You can find your code on the VIN sticker located in the driver's side door jamb or on the metal firewall behind the engine. Always test the color on the included card first to see how it matches your specific level of paint fade. When you begin the repair, keep the container moving to prevent the paint from pooling or sagging. Work in the shade or a garage to avoid high heat, and give the area plenty of drying time between layers to ensure a durable bond.