Volkswagen Paprika Red (LK3A/H7) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Your Volkswagen has likely spent its life as a reliable workhorse or a sun-seeking cruiser. Whether it is the slab-sided utility of a Vanagon or Eurovan, or the sleek lines of an early EOS, this color is a high-energy statement. It is a bold, honest red that avoids the orange undertones often found in similar shades. Since these models have been on the road since the nineties, your original finish has probably faced significant UV exposure. You might notice that the factory paint has "chalked" or faded slightly over time, which is common for reds from this era. This means your repair will likely look much more vibrant than the surrounding panels until you give the rest of the car a good polish.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish, which is excellent news for anyone working in a garage or driveway. Because there are no metallic flakes or pearls hiding in the mix, you do not have to worry about the orientation of particles or "tiger stripes" appearing in your work. The simplicity of a solid color makes it much easier to achieve a deep, uniform look. The trade-off is that solid reds are less forgiving when it comes to surface preparation. Any nicks or uneven sanding will be visible through the pigment, so take your time to ensure the area is smooth before you begin.

Best Practices

To confirm your match, look for the identification sticker on the floor of the trunk or inside the spare tire well. If the sticker is missing, check the inside cover of your original service book. Before you spray or dab Volkswagen Paprika Red (check for code LK3A/H7), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to ensure the heavy red pigments are fully blended. Always test the color on the included card to verify the shade against your specific car. When applying, keep the container moving to ensure a steady flow and prevent pooling. Allow for plenty of drying time between thin layers, as building the color slowly will result in a much tougher, more durable finish.