COLOR CODESA9700 - Dark Gray (matt) MetallicSaab Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This shade defined the rugged, two-tone era of Swedish SUVs, appearing as the primary contrast on the lower panels and bumpers of the 9-7X and 9-4X. Since your Saab has likely logged many miles since its 2005-2012 production run, this trim color has probably faced a decade of road grit and UV exposure. It is an industrial, tough gray that grounds the vehicle, giving it a lower center of gravity visually while hiding the light dust and salt that accumulate during daily driving. While it was a staple for the larger utility vehicles, it was used across various models to provide a durable finish on high-impact areas.

Technical Details

This finish is a metallic paint that dries to a low-gloss, matte surface. Unlike the shiny clear coat on your hood or doors, this paint relies on a specific texture to look right. Because it contains fine metallic flakes, you have to watch out for mottling. Mottling happens when the metal particles clump together in wet patches, creating dark, blotchy clouds in the finish. If the paint goes on too thick, these flakes won't lay flat, and the repair will stand out against the original factory trim. You want a consistent, thin application to let those tiny particles catch the light without adding unwanted shine.

Best Practices

Your paint code is often found on the driver-side door jamb, though on the 9-7X and 9-4X, you should also check the sticker inside your glove box. Before you apply Saab Dark Gray (matt) Metallic (code SA9700), shake the container for at least sixty seconds to lift the heavy metallic sediment from the bottom. Test the color on the included card to confirm the shade matches the current level of fade on your trim. Work in the shade to keep the surface cool, and keep the container moving at all times to ensure an even distribution of the flakes. Give each layer plenty of drying time so the matte texture can set properly without becoming gummy or dark.