Volkswagen Medium Gray (Wheel) (LZ49) Touch Up Paint

The Look

This is the workhorse finish of the modern Volkswagen era. Whether it is on your Polo, Golf, Passat, or Tiguan, this color provides a clean, industrial look that bridges the gap between bright silver and aggressive black. It is a practical choice because it hides brake dust effectively, which is helpful since your wheels live in the harshest environment on the car. Because these wheels sit so close to the road, they take a beating from salt, heat, and gravel, so you are likely dealing with small chips or curb rash that have begun to oxidize.

Technical Details

This color is a metallic finish, meaning it relies on tiny flakes to create depth. If those flakes do not distribute evenly, you will end up with mottling, which looks like dark, cloudy patches on the surface. To avoid this, you must ensure the flakes stay suspended in the liquid while you work. There is also evidence that Volkswagen used a light-colored primer under this gray at the factory. If you are covering a deep scratch that has gone down to the metal, the final color might look slightly darker than the original unless you build up your layers patiently.

Best Practices

You can find your paint code on the white paper identification sticker located in the trunk, usually tucked near the spare tire well or printed in your service maintenance book. Before you spray or dab Volkswagen Medium Gray (Wheel) (check for code LZ49), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is the only way to get those metallic flakes moving. Work in a cool, dry area like your garage and out of the direct sun. Test the color on the included card to verify the flake density before touching the wheel. When applying the paint, keep the container moving to prevent it from pooling in the recessed areas around the lug nuts. Give the area plenty of drying time before you think about driving, as wheel paint needs to be fully cured to handle the heat of your next trip.