COLOR CODER7 - Hot Red PearlKia Touch-Up Paint

The Look

Back in 1994, Kia used this color to make a bold first impression during their early years on North American roads. It is a high-energy, classic 90s red that was the face of the original Sephia and Sportage lineup. Since your car has been braving the elements for three decades, the original finish has likely lost some of its factory bite due to UV exposure. Because this color is vibrant, any new paint will look noticeably fresher than the aged panels around it. A quick polish of the surrounding area before you start will help the new finish blend with the old.

Technical Details

This is a pearl finish, which means it relies on tiny mica flakes to create depth and shimmer. These flakes are heavier than the paint itself and tend to settle at the bottom of the container. Pearl paints are sensitive to how they are applied; if you put the paint on too thick, the mica flakes will clump together and create dark, uneven spots known as mottling. To get that deep, consistent glow, you need to apply the paint in thin, light layers. This allows the light to pass through the finish and reflect off the pearl particles at the right angle.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Kia Hot Red Pearl (check for code R7), you need to shake it for 60 seconds to get those pearl pigments suspended. You can find your paint code on the manufacturing sticker located inside the driver's side door jamb, or occasionally on a metal plate on the firewall in the engine bay. Test the color on the included card to ensure the shade matches the current state of your car. When you are ready to apply the paint, keep the container moving to prevent the mica from pooling in one spot. Work in the shade and allow for plenty of drying time between layers to keep the finish crisp and level.