COLOR CODE223 - Graphite Black Gf EffectToyota Touch-Up Paint

The Look

This color takes the standard deep black of the Toyota lineup and injects it with a distinct personality. On a sporty 86 or a sharp C-HR, the glass flakes catch light to create a look that feels more like dark granite than a simple mirror finish. If your Avalon or 4Runner has been on the road for a few seasons, you might notice that the black base hides small swirl marks better than a flat paint, but the sparkle is what gives the car its premium weight. It is a sophisticated choice that shifts from a deep obsidian in the shade to a star-filled sky under direct sunlight.

Technical Details

This finish is a metallic pearl that relies on glass flakes for its depth. These flakes are heavier than standard pigment and settle at the bottom of the container. If you do not mix the paint until the flakes distribute, the color will appear too dark or flat, and the repair will stand out against your factory finish. Because this is a black-based metallic, your biggest challenge is flake orientation. If the paint goes on too heavy, the particles can cluster and create dark spots. Maintaining a consistent flow is the only way to ensure the flakes lay down flat and reflect light the same way as the rest of the body panels.

Best Practices

Before you spray or dab Toyota Graphite Black Gf Effect (check for code 223), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. You can find your paint code on the driver side door jamb sticker, located under the barcode next to the letters C/TR. Test the color on the included card to confirm the flake density matches your car. When you work, make sure you are in a garage or a patch of shade to prevent the paint from drying too soon. Apply thin layers and wait for the drying time to finish between each pass. Keep the container moving to avoid puddles, and remember that this color requires a clear coat to reveal the glass flake effect.