AC-420 - Onyx Brown Citroen Touch Up Paint

The Look

This color captures the specific mid-sixties shift toward earthier, more grounded tones. If you are working on a 1965 DS or an Ami 6, this shade provides a serious and sophisticated presence that stands apart from the lighter pastels common in that era. It is a deep, coffee-like brown that feels substantial. Since your car has likely been on the road for over half a century, you will notice that this shade holds its depth well, though it can look a bit somber if it loses its shine. It is a rare, one-year-only choice that marks a very specific moment in French automotive design.

Technical Details

This is a solid finish. There are no metallic flakes or pearl particles in the mix, which makes the repair process straightforward but demanding. Solid dark colors are honest; they do not hide scratches or uneven application as well as a silver might. The benefit is that you do not have to worry about metallic mottling or "tiger stripes" appearing in the finish. However, because this brown is so dark, it will show dust and water spots almost as clearly as a black car would. If your layers are too thick, the color can look muddy, so thin applications are the only way to maintain the correct tone.

Best Practices

For a car from this era, look for a small, round aluminum disc riveted to the firewall or bulkhead inside the engine bay. Before you spray or dab Citroen Onyx Brown (check for code AC-420), you need to shake it for at least sixty seconds. The heavy pigments in solid browns settle quickly, and a lazy mix will result in a shade that looks too light or translucent. Test the color on the included card first to see how it looks against your aged factory paint. Apply your layers in a protected garage or the shade to prevent the metal from getting too hot. Keep the container moving at all times and allow for plenty of drying time between coats to ensure the finish remains level and smooth.