COLOR CODELC3J - Kings Red TricoatVolkswagen Touch-Up Paint

The Look

Your GTI, GLI, or ID series carries a color that signals a new era for the brand. It is a sophisticated, deep red that moves away from the flat, fire-engine shades of the past to embrace a more premium, liquid appearance. Whether it is catching the sun on an Arteon or highlighting the lines of a modern electric car, this finish has a visual weight to it. Since your car has likely been exposed to the elements for a few seasons, you will notice the color has a complex depth that changes as you walk around the vehicle.

Technical Details

This is not a simple solid finish; it is a metallic tricoat. This means the depth comes from how light interacts with layers of pigment and flake. Before you spray or dab Volkswagen Kings Red Tricoat (check for code LC3J), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. The metallic particles inside are heavy and settle quickly. If they are not fully mixed, the repair will look dull or mismatched. The danger here is mottling-if you apply the paint too heavily in one spot, the flakes will bunch up and create a dark, uneven patch that ruins the factory effect.

Best Practices

You can find your paint code on a white paper sticker located in the trunk, usually near the spare tire well or tucked under the carpet. When you begin the repair, remember that thin layers are your best friend. Test the color on the included card first to see how the flakes settle. Whether you are using a pen or a nozzle, always keep the container moving to prevent the paint from pooling. Work in a garage or the shade to keep the surface cool, and give each layer plenty of drying time. If you rush the layers, you risk lifting the metallic flakes and losing that deep, factory glow.