COLOR CODEAX/M6253 - Light Sandwood MetallicFord Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This color is a time capsule from the era when the SUV first conquered the American driveway. Appearing during the 1990 and 1991 model years, it was a defining look for the launch of the first-generation Explorer and the rugged Ranger pickups of the time. It is a sophisticated, warm earth tone that captures the champagne-and-chrome aesthetic of the early nineties. Because your vehicle has likely spent three decades under the sun, the original finish has a high chance of being slightly lighter than the fresh paint in your hand. This shade is famous for its utility; it disguises road dust and light mud exceptionally well, making it the perfect match for the adventurous spirit of the Aerostar and Ford's truck lineup.

Technical Details

You are working with a metallic finish, which means the paint is packed with tiny reflective flakes that give it that signature 1990s shimmer. Metallics are less about the pigment and more about how those flakes settle on the surface. If you do not keep the container moving while you work, the flakes can cluster together, creating a blotchy look known as mottling. This can make the repair look like a different shade even if the chemistry is perfect. Since this is a lighter metallic, any unevenness in how you apply the layers will show up as dark or light streaks, so consistency is your best friend here.

Best Practices

To confirm you have the right match, open your driver's side door and look at the safety sticker on the jamb; you will find the paint code listed next to the "EXT PNT" label. Before you spray or dab Ford Light Sandwood Metallic (check for code AX/M6253), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. This is not a suggestion-the heavy metallic flakes settle at the bottom of the container and must be fully suspended to get an accurate match. Test the color on the included card before moving to the vehicle. Whether you are using a nozzle or a brush, apply the paint in thin, even layers. If the paint feels too thick, check your flow and speed rather than piling it on. Allow for ample drying time between coats to ensure the metallic particles stay exactly where you put them.