Finding the closest cardinal red paint color for repairs or restorations can be challenging. This guide highlights top cardinal red paint options and explains how to pick the right shade for Ford, GMC, Mercedes-Benz, and other vehicles. Each entry includes a quick product snapshot, key features, and where to buy.
| Product | Brand | Code / Match | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dupli-Color EBFM03067 Perfect Match | Dupli-Color | 21/EP/SQ/E4/EA | Ford factory color match spray |
| Dupli-Color Scratch Fix All-in-1 | Dupli-Color | N/A | Scratch repair with color + clear coat |
| Cardinal Red G7C/WA130X Touch Up (SNSIR) | SNSIR | GMC Cardinal Red G7C/WA130X | GMC scratch repair and color match |
| Carhuewell Cardinal Red (GMC) | Carhuewell | GMC Cardinal Red G7C/WA130X | GMC touch-up with 3-in-1 formula |
| Dupli-Color Cardinal Red Exact-Match (Ford) | Dupli-Color | Ford Cardinal Red Exact-Match | Ford exact-match 8 oz plus prep wipe |
Dupli-Color EBFM03067 Perfect Match Automotive Spray
Dupli-Color Perfect Match is a fast-drying, acrylic lacquer vehicle paint designed to match the original factory coating. The 21/EP/SQ/E4/EA color code aligns with Ford’s identification, usually found in the driver’s door jamb. The EZ Touch 360° Fan Spray Nozzle provides even coverage, with a dry-to-touch time around 30 minutes and handling in about an hour. This makes it suitable for touch-ups on Ford vehicles where precise color alignment is essential.
Dupli-Color Scratch Fix All-in-1 Touch Up Paint, Gloss, Cardinal Red
Scratch Fix All-in-1 is a comprehensive touch-up solution that includes color and clear coat in one tool. It comes with a factory-match color and clear coat, plus an abrasive prep tip to remove loose paint and rust. This product is ideal for enthusiasts who want a ready-to-use repair kit for small chips and scratches that matches the factory shade closely and seals the finish in one step.
Cardinal Red G7C/WA130X Touch Up Paint for GMC (SNSIR)
SNSIR’s Cardinal Red for GMC focuses on excellent color match and a 2-in-1 design with a pen tip and brush. It aims to minimize color differences on GMC models and provides strong adhesion plus rust and water resistance. The kit is designed for quick repairs on small chips or larger dings, and the color is tested to align with GMC’s popular vehicle colors.
Carhuewell Cardinal Red G7C/WA130X Touch Up Paint for GMC
Carhuewell’s Cardinal Red for GMC emphasizes a 3-in-1 formula, combining color, clear coat, and rust protection for durable, long-lasting repairs. The product is designed for quick, convenient use with a color database aligned to GMC models. It’s positioned as a cost-effective solution for minor repairs that helps prevent chips from expanding into more serious damage.
Dupli-Color Cardinal Red Exact-Match Ford Automotive Paint (8 oz) Bundle
This bundle includes two 8 oz Cardinal Red Ford exact-match paints plus a prep wipe. It’s designed for Ford owners who want a straightforward, reliable way to achieve an exact color match during repairs and refinishing work. The included prep wipe helps prepare the surface for better adhesion and durability.
Cardinal Red GMC Car Touch Up Paint (XNA) 2-in-1 Pen and Brush
XNA’s Cardinal Red for GMC is a 2-in-1 touch-up pen with a brush, designed to match GMC colors closely. It features strong adhesion, waterproof and rust-proof properties, and a color-matched finish. The pen-tip is ideal for dot scratches, while the brush handles longer scratches and chips with ease.Tests indicate multiple calibrations to align with GMC color standards.
TESLAUNCH Touch Up Paint for Mercedes-Benz Cardinal Red (996)
TESLAUNCH offers a Mercedes-Benz Cardinal Red touch-up solution with a color-match focus for Mercs. The system emphasizes precise color blending and durability in various climates, aiming to restore the vehicle’s original shine with a seamless repair that blends into surrounding paint.
XTryfun 996 Cardinal Red Touch Up Paint for Mercedes-Benz
XTryfun provides a Mercedes-Benz compatible Cardinal Red touch-up kit with a focus on accurate color matching for multiple MB models. It emphasizes ease of use, drying time within minutes, and a build that blends with the original paint to reduce visible repairs.
Buying Guide
- Vehicle compatibility: Confirm the exact color code and model compatibility. Ford, GMC, and Mercedes-Benz Cardinal Red shades may have subtle differences. Always cross-check the code against your vehicle’s VIN tag or color label.
- Finish and protection: Decide between gloss, clear-coat in one step, or compounds that include rust protection. 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 formulas save time but ensure durability for the specific climate you drive in.
- Application ease: Look for nozzle types like EZ Touch 360° or brush-and-pen designs that fit your repair scope—tiny chips vs. larger scratches may need different tools.
- Drying and handling time: If you need quick results, choose fast-drying formulations. Note curing times for re-coats and topcoats to avoid touch marks.
- Color matching accuracy: Some products claim “exact color match” for GMC or Ford, while others provide a general cardinal red approximation. For high-visibility repairs, prioritize tested color databases and model-specific codes.
- Surface prep requirements: Some kits include prep wipes or abrasive tips; others require separate surface prep. Proper cleaning and degreasing are essential for adhesion.
- Budget and bundle value: Bundles with multiple items (paint + prep wipes) can offer better long-term value, especially for DIY projects that require both color and surface prep.
- Storage and shelf life: Store upright, away from direct sunlight and heat. Check bottle or can label for storage guidelines to maintain color integrity.
When selecting a cardinal red paint, it helps to identify whether you’re repairing Ford, GMC, or Mercedes-Benz color families, and then pick a product that emphasizes solid color matching, proper finish, and durable protection. Cross-reference product codes with your vehicle’s labels for the best match and plan touch-ups in stages to preserve the overall appearance of the vehicle.