COLOR CODE45A - Urban Gray MetallicSubaru Touch-Up Paint

The Look

Subaru leaned heavily into this shade during the mid-2000s because it perfectly captures the rugged, utilitarian spirit of the brand. Whether you are driving an Outback through a muddy trail or a Forester through a snowy commute, this color is a workhorse that hides road salt and grime better than almost any other finish in the lineup. It provides a mature, sophisticated look to the Legacy and Impreza without the high-maintenance demands of a darker charcoal or a bright silver. Since your car has likely been on the road for nearly two decades, you might notice the original finish has a dependable, muted quality that still holds its own today.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, which means it contains a high concentration of fine silver flakes suspended in the gray base. These flakes are what give the paint its depth, but they can be tricky during a repair. If the flakes are not distributed evenly, the touch-up area can look darker or blotchy compared to the surrounding panel. This uneven look happens because the metal particles settle at different angles. To get a consistent finish, you need to ensure those flakes lay flat and uniform, otherwise, the repair will stand out when the sun hits it.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Subaru Urban Gray Metallic (check for code 45A), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. You can find your paint code on a silver VIN plate located on the passenger side strut tower under the hood, or occasionally on the passenger side door jamb. Because the metallic flakes in this color like to settle at the bottom of the container, thorough mixing is the only way to get an accurate match. Apply the paint in thin, light layers rather than one heavy coat. If you are working in your garage or a patch of shade, give each layer ample drying time before adding the next. Keep the container moving as you apply the paint to prevent the flakes from clustering in one spot. Always test the color on the included card before you touch the car to ensure the shade aligns with your weathered factory finish.