COLOR CODEWA500F - Light Charcoal (matt)Chevrolet Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This isn't your standard body paint. Chevrolet used this specific shade to ground the massive silhouettes of the Avalanche, Suburban, and Tahoe, usually applying it to the bumpers, fender flares, and lower cladding. It serves as a rugged, utilitarian frame that protects the more colorful sheet metal from road debris. Because your truck has likely spent the last decade hauling gear or navigating tight parking lots, this trim has probably taken a beating from the sun and stones. Restoring it isn't just about aesthetics; it's about making those plastic and metal accents look uniform and factory-fresh again.

Technical Details

Before you spray or dab Chevrolet Light Charcoal (matt) (check for code WA500F), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is a matte finish, which means it lacks the glossy reflection of your main body panels. It contains a very fine metallic pigment that gives the charcoal its depth, but if you don't mix it thoroughly, the metal particles will clump at the bottom. This leads to a patchy, uneven look where some areas appear darker than others. Because there is no high-gloss clear coat to hide mistakes, your technique needs to be steady to ensure the finish looks flat and consistent across the entire surface.

Best Practices

You will usually find your paint code on the silver Service Parts Identification sticker located inside your glove box. Once you have confirmed the match, work in a cool garage or the shade to prevent the paint from drying too fast and leaving rough edges. Test the color on the included card to ensure the matte level matches your existing trim. Whether you are using a pen for small nicks or a can for larger scuffs, keep the container moving at all times to avoid heavy spots. This color builds its strength through thin layers, so give it plenty of drying time between passes to ensure the final texture is smooth rather than gritty.