Lexus GS350 Touch Up Paint (31 OEM Colors)

The Color Breakdown

Lexus clearly had a lot of fun in the design studio for the GS350, recording a massive 31 colors over its lifespan. They really went for it with names like Lapis Lazuli Metallic and Jade Green Metallic, which sound more like a high-end jewelry store than a sedan. Of course, you've also got the "Lexus special" collection of about twelve different versions of silver and white-including Liquid Platinum (which sounds like a superhero's drink) and White Crystal Pearl Tricoat. Whether you're driving a "sensible accountant" grey or the fiery Matador Red, the finish is designed to look like a million bucks.

What to Watch For

The good news? Your paint code is exactly where it should be. Open the driver's side door and look at the VIN sticker on the jamb. Look for the letters "C/TR"-the three digits immediately following that slash are your golden ticket (for example, "062" or "212").

The reality check? Lexus is known for "soft" paint. While it looks incredible when it's fresh, it tends to collect "road acne" (tiny rock chips) on the hood and front bumper quite easily. You might also notice some thinning or light peeling on the very bottom edges of the doors where road debris likes to sandblast the finish. Don't panic-it's not a failure of the car; it's just the price of having such a high-gloss, deep finish.

Driveway Repair Tip

Did you notice how many of those 31 colors ended in the word "Tricoat"? That's the secret code for "pearl." If you have a color like Starfire Pearl or Black Sapphire Metallic, you have to wake up those sparkles. Shake your touch-up bottle or pen for a full 60 seconds-longer than you think you need-to get the metallic flakes off the bottom and into the paint.

When applying, remember that Lexus paint is all about depth, not thickness. Instead of trying to fill a chip with one giant "blob" of paint, apply two or three paper-thin layers. Think of it like painting your fingernails; a few light passes will look factory-smooth, while one thick drop will stick out like a sore thumb. Be patient, let it dry between layers, and your GS350 will be back to its red-carpet glory in no time.