ARX - Dark Garnet Red (matt)Dodge Touch Up Paint

The Look

This moody, deep wine color was a specific choice for the 2003 Caravan, usually reserved for the lower body cladding and bumpers. It gives the van a grounded, rugged appearance that contrasts well against the glossier body panels. Since your vehicle has been on the road for quite some time, this matte finish has likely picked up some scuffs or sun-fading that make the trim look tired. Restoring this color isn't just about hiding a scratch; it is about bringing back the original two-tone sophistication that made this trim level stand out on the road.

Technical Details

This is a low-gloss metallic finish, which means it carries tiny pearl-like flakes suspended in a flat base. The biggest risk with this paint is mottling, where the metallic bits clump together and create dark, blotchy shadows if the coat is applied too thick or unevenly. Unlike standard body paint, you cannot polish or buff this finish after it dries. If you try to sand out a run or a speck of dust, you will create a shiny spot that will never go back to being matte, so your technique during the application is the only thing that matters.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Dodge Dark Garnet Red (matt) (check for code ARX), you need to shake the container for at least a full minute to get those settled metallic particles back into the mix. You will find your paint code on the silver sticker inside the driver's side door jamb or occasionally on a metal plate near the radiator support under the hood. Test the color on the included card first to ensure the nozzle or brush provides a steady flow. Work in your garage or the shade to keep the surface cool, and give it plenty of drying time before you touch the repair. Remember to avoid using wax on this specific area later, as it will ruin the flat look you worked so hard to restore.