Volkswagen Gray Metallic (LA7R) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This isn't the dull gray from a decade ago. Volkswagen used this color to launch a new era, specifically grounding the futuristic lines of the ID4 and the aggressive stance of the Golf R. On an Atlas, it provides a heavy, industrial feel that hides road grime better than almost anything else in the lineup. It carries a cool, crisp undertone that shifts as the sun moves across the body panels, moving from a bright silver-gray in direct light to a deep, moody slate in the shade.

Technical Details

You are dealing with a metallic finish, which means the secret is in the flake. These tiny metallic particles give the color its depth, but they are also your biggest challenge. If the paint is applied too heavily or unevenly, those flakes will clump together. This creates a blotchy, uneven appearance known as mottling. Since your Volkswagen has large, flat panels, any inconsistency in how the flakes lay down will be obvious. You want the color to look like a single sheet of metal, not a series of dark patches.

Best Practices

You can usually find your paint information on a white paper sticker located in the trunk, often tucked away under the carpet near the spare tire well. Before you spray or dab Volkswagen Gray Metallic (check for code LA7R), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This ensures the metallic flakes are fully suspended in the mixture. Test the color on the included card to verify the match against your specific car. When you begin, keep the container moving at a steady pace to prevent the paint from pooling or sagging. Respect the drying time between layers to keep the finish crisp and prevent the metallic particles from sinking into the lower layers.