COLOR CODEB-39M - Riviera Blue MetallicHonda Touch-Up Paint

The Look

If you are working on a 1986 Civic or a first-generation CRX, you are handling a piece of peak eighties Honda history. This color is the quintessential mid-tone blue from an era when Honda was beginning to dominate the compact car market. Since your car has likely been on the road for nearly forty years, the original finish has probably matured and shifted slightly from its factory state. This shade is a deep, confident blue that feels much more sophisticated than the flat, non-metallic blues of the same period. It captures the sporty, lightweight spirit of the CRX perfectly.

Technical Details

This is a true metallic finish, which means it relies on tiny flakes to catch the light and create depth. Before you spray or dab Honda Riviera Blue Metallic (check for code B-39M), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. Metallic paints are prone to mottling, which is that uneven, blotchy look where the flakes bunch up in some spots and leave others looking thin. This happens because the heavy metallic particles naturally want to sink to the bottom of the container. If you do not mix it thoroughly, the color will look different from the first drop to the last.

Best Practices

You will find your color ID tag located on the driver side door jamb, usually near the latch or the hinge. Before you begin the actual repair, test the color on the included card to ensure the shade matches your current paint. When you are ready to apply, keep the container moving at all times to ensure the metallic flakes lay down in a uniform pattern. Apply several thin layers rather than one heavy coat; this prevents the paint from sagging and helps the blue tones stay consistent. Give the surface plenty of drying time in a cool garage or under some shade, and always finish with a clear coat to protect those delicate metallic flakes from oxidizing.