Custom Painted Gunmetal Trunk Rings: Step-by-Step DIY Guide

If you’re looking to add a subtle, custom touch to your Audi’s rear end, painting your trunk emblem (rings) to match your wheels or valence is a simple and rewarding weekend project.

I chose to paint mine gunmetal to match my wheels and S4 rear valence—but you can pick any color you like. I’ve seen everything from sleek black to bold neon green. The best part? If you ever change your mind, it’s easy (and inexpensive) to redo.

Step 1: Order a New Trunk Emblem

Order a new Trunk Emblem from your local dealer or parts retailer of your choice (Amazon, eBay, etc. all have them). It comes with adhesive backing, so it’s easy to install once painted.

Step 2: Prep and Prime

Lightly sand the emblem surface to help the paint stick.
Then apply three coats of primer:

• The first two coats should be light.

• The third coat should be a bit wetter for full coverage.

Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.

Step 3: Paint

Once the primer is smooth and dry, lightly sand any imperfections. Clean the surface using rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover.

Now for the fun part—painting! I used a glossy gunmetal spray paint made for automotive applications. You can use any color you like, but I recommend sticking with one brand for the primer, paint, and clear coat so everything bonds well.

Apply three coats of paint:

• Two light coats

• One heavier, even coat

Let the paint dry thoroughly between each layer.

 It should now look like this:

Step 4: Apply Clear Coat

To protect your finish and give it a glossy sheen, apply 3–4 coats of clear coat using the same method as before. More layers add durability and shine.

Step 5: Remove the Old Emblem

Before removing your old emblem, tape off around it to mark its exact placement.

Then, use a hair dryer or heat gun to warm up the adhesive, and gently slide fishing line or dental floss behind the emblem. Work in a slow, sawing motion to separate it from the trunk without damaging the paint.

If you want a visual reference, check out a quick video tutorial on this process—there are plenty of great ones on YouTube.

Step 6: Clean the Surface

Once the old emblem is off, clean the trunk surface thoroughly to remove leftover adhesive. Goo Gone, nail polish remover, or similar products work great. Make sure it’s clean and dry before applying the new emblem.

Step 7: Install Your New Painted Rings

Using your tape guide, remove the backing from the freshly painted emblem and carefully stick it into place. Press firmly for good adhesion.

And that’s it—you’ve just customized your trunk rings!

Final Thoughts

This DIY mod is straightforward, affordable, and adds a unique custom look that ties in perfectly with your wheels or valence. The hardest part is usually removing the old adhesive, but patience pays off.

Here’s the final result — clean, sleek, and perfectly matched to the rest of the car.