COLOR CODE78/WA8986 - Medium Rosewood MetallicGMC Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This color is a time capsule from the late eighties, capturing the specific moment when GMC transitioned from the classic boxy utility into the more aerodynamic Sierra and Suburban designs. Since your vehicle has been on the road since 1989, this particular shade has likely developed a unique character. It is an earth-toned red that leans heavily into a brownish-copper glow when the sun hits it. It does not scream for attention like a bright crimson, but on a well-kept 1500 or a Safari van, it provides a mature finish that hides road dust far better than a standard flat red.

Technical Details

Because this is a true metallic finish, the way you apply the color matters as much as the color itself. Before you spray or dab GMC Medium Rosewood Metallic (check for code 78/WA8986), you need to shake the container for at least a full minute to get those flakes moving. Metallics can be temperamental; if the flakes are not distributed evenly, you might see darker or lighter streaks known as mottling. This is not a defect in the paint, but a result of how the metallic particles settle. To avoid this, keep the container moving in steady, even passes and ensure the layers remain thin.

Best Practices

You will usually find your paint code on the Service Parts Identification sticker inside the glove box, though it occasionally hides on the door jamb. This era of paint typically requires a clear coat to achieve the original factory depth and protection. To get the best result, test the color on the included card before touching the truck itself. Once you are happy with the match, apply your color in light layers. If you are working in a garage or the shade, give the paint plenty of drying time between coats. Rushing the process can cause the metallic flakes to sink, which ruins the shimmer.