Mazda Miata Paint Info
The Color Breakdown
Mazda clearly didn't get the memo that sports cars are supposed to be "safe" colors. They really went for it, recording 55 different shades for the Miata over the years. We've seen everything from the adventurous Evolution Orange Pearl and Sunburst Yellow to the sophisticated Soul Red and Twilight Blue Pearl. Whether you're driving a classic "Mariner Blue" NA or a modern metallic ND, Mazda has treated the Miata like a rolling canvas for some of the most vibrant pigments in the industry.
What to Watch For
Mazda is famous for many things, but "thick paint" isn't one of them. The finish on these cars is notoriously thin and soft, meaning the front bumper and hood are likely a constellation of tiny rock chips. You might also notice the clear coat starting to get shy on the tops of the fenders or the rear decklid if it spends too much time in the sun. To get started on your fix, you'll need your paint code. You can usually find this 2 or 3-character code (like A3E or SU) on the manufacturer's sticker inside the driver's side door jamb, or occasionally stamped on the firewall at the back of the engine bay.
Driveway Repair Tip
If you're working with one of Mazda's many pearl or mica finishes, like Soul Red or Crystal White, your touch-up bottle is basically a snow globe. Those tiny metallic flakes love to settle at the bottom, so shake that bottle for at least 60 seconds-longer than you think you need-to wake up the sparkles. When applying, don't try to fill a deep chip in one go. Dabbing a giant "blob" of paint will just result in a dark, raised bump. Instead, use a toothpick or the very tip of your brush to apply thin, "whisper-light" layers, letting them dry for 15 minutes in between. It requires patience, but your Miata's curves will thank you.