There’s a lot to consider when purchasing a vehicle, from the make and model to the features you want. But have you ever stopped to think about the color? Today, we want to discuss some of the things to know about color when buying a car, such as why it’s important and how it may affect the vehicle’s overall value down the road.
The Impact of Car Color on Visibility
A critical factor to consider when choosing car colors is visibility. Lighter hues tend to be more visible on the road, leading to a smaller risk of accidents. White is one of the most common car colors due to its high visibility, making it easier for other drivers to spot the vehicle in any weather condition or time of day. There are many pros and cons of buying a white car, with high visibility being a common factor, while darker shades, such as black or navy blue, may be harder to see in low-light situations.
Potential Resale Value of Your Car
A common thing that people hear is that your car loses 90 percent of its value the moment you take it off the lot, which can make it much harder to make an impression on the resale market. Truthfully, color also plays a big part in determining that value. Neutral colors like white, black, and silver have broader appeal to potential buyers, so it’s often easier to sell these vehicles secondhand.
On the other hand, more vibrant colors tend to be less popular, which can make vibrant vehicles more difficult to sell. However, some buyers might be looking for a vehicle with a unique hue, so selecting a less common color could potentially attract a niche market.
Matching Your Lifestyle and Personality
Another thing to know about color when buying a car is how it reflects your personality and general lifestyle. Many vehicle manufacturers take these elements into consideration, which is why bright red is much more common on sports cars than family minivans. Ultimately, you should select a color that makes you happy and suits your individual style.
Additionally, darker car colors might show dirt more quickly than lighter ones, which is something to consider if you have an active, outdoor lifestyle or live in an area prone to dust and dirt. On the flip side, white cars might display stains or road grime more noticeably.
Maintenance and Upkeep Considerations
Lastly, it’s essential to consider maintenance and upkeep when deciding on a car color. Lighter-colored vehicles tend to require less effort to maintain their appearance. Dust, dirt, and minor scratches are often less visible on such cars.
While darker colors may not show dirt as visibly, swirl marks or scratches on the paint will be more obvious. These small but noticeable damages might require more frequent detailing or paint correction to keep the car looking pristine.
