Can I order a car in a custom color?

Yes. In many cases you can order a car in a custom color, but availability depends on the brand, model, and market. Most automakers offer an expanded palette or a "special color" program, while genuinely bespoke color options are typically limited to luxury or high-end brands and factory orders.

What counts as a custom color can range from choosing a non-standard factory shade to color-matching a sample, or even applying matte or satin finishes. This article outlines how buyers can pursue color customization, what it costs, and what to watch for during the process.

How color customization works

Automakers provide several pathways to obtain a unique exterior color. The most common options are described below.

• Factory color programs and special-order colors (often called Design Studio, Exclusive/Individual, or Color Studio). These let you pick from expanded palettes or request a specific hue from the manufacturer’s color library.


• Color-to-sample or color-matching programs offered by luxury brands, where you can specify a precise shade or code and have it reproduced on your car.


• Special finishes such as matte, satin, pearlescent, or chameleon-type paints. These finish types may be listed as factory options or offered through a bespoke program, sometimes at a premium.


• Aftermarket options such as vinyl wraps or custom repainting. This is not a factory color and can affect warranty and resale, but it provides flexibility if a true factory color isn’t available.

Each path has its own process, price range, and lead time. It’s important to understand how a chosen color affects warranty, maintenance, and resale before committing.

Costs, timing, and warranty considerations

Costs and timelines vary widely by brand, model, and the color option you select. Here is what buyers typically encounter.

• Color surcharges: A broad range exists. Some standard palettes incur no extra cost, while special-order colors, matte finishes, or exclusive shades can add from several hundred up to tens of thousands of dollars for the most premium programs.


• Lead times: Factory custom colors often add weeks to the build time. Expect longer wait times if the color is scarce or if the model is in high demand. Custom finishes may also require more time for preparation and application.


• Warranty and care: Factory colors are covered under standard warranties, but matte or satin finishes may require specialized cleaning, protection, and maintenance. Some third-party wraps or repainting can affect warranty coverage for the affected panels or systems.

Prospective buyers should verify exact costs, timelines, and warranty implications with the dealership, and request written specifications of the color, finish, and any maintenance requirements before placing an order.

Step-by-step: How to order a car in a custom color

Following these steps helps ensure a smooth process when pursuing a custom color.

1. Choose the model and trim you want, and confirm whether your target color is available for that configuration.


2. Explore color options through the brand’s configurator or a specialized program (e.g., Design Studio, Exclusive/Premium, or Color Studio). Request color samples or swatches if possible.


3. Get a quote that includes the color surcharge, any finishes, and the expected lead time. Ask about warranty implications and maintenance requirements.


4. Decide whether to proceed with a factory-custom color or an aftermarket option (wrap or repaint). If factory, place the order with the dealer as a build-to-order (BTO) or special-order.


5. Monitor the production timeline and confirm delivery details. A deposit or contract amendment may be required for color customization.


6. Inspect the vehicle upon arrival to ensure the color matches your specification and that any finishes meet expectations. Address any discrepancies promptly.

Alternatives and considerations

For buyers who want a distinctive look without extending lead times or costs, there are practical options to consider.

• Choose a bold standard color that’s less common in your region, which may still feel unique without a bespoke program.


• Experiment with complementary interior colors, trims, or accent packages that can alter the overall appearance without changing the exterior color.


• Use a high-quality aftermarket wrap or detailing to achieve a similar effect, while noting potential impacts on resale value and warranty.

Regardless of the path chosen, doing thorough research and confirming all terms with the dealer helps prevent surprises and ensures you get the look you want without unintended drawbacks.

Summary

Ordering a car in a custom color is possible, especially through factory-color programs, color-to-sample options, or bespoke finishes offered by many brands. Availability, cost, and lead times vary widely by manufacturer and model, with luxury programs typically carrying higher premiums and longer wait times. For most buyers, the first step is to check the brand’s official configurator or consult a dealer about specific color options, samples, and the implications for warranty and maintenance. With careful planning, you can achieve a truly personalized exterior that fits your style—and your timeline.

What is the 30-60-90 rule for cars?

The 30-60-90 rule for cars is a recommended maintenance schedule that calls for major services at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000-mile intervals. These milestones are designed to ensure important parts are inspected and replaced on time to keep the vehicle running smoothly, improve its lifespan, and prevent expensive future repairs. 
30,000-mile service

• Change the engine oil and oil filter.
• Replace the engine air filter.
• Inspect and replace other filters, like the fuel filter.
• Check brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels.
• Rotate and align the tires. 

60,000-mile service

• Perform all services from the 30,000-mile mark.
• Flush and replace the transmission fluid.
• Flush the engine coolant.
• Check and potentially replace spark plugs and belts. 

90,000-mile service 

• Perform all services from the 30,000 and 60,000-mile marks. 
• Check and potentially replace spark plugs, hoses, and the timing belt. 
• This service acts as a comprehensive system refresh, preparing the car for the long haul. 

Important considerations

• Consult your owner's manual: This rule is a guideline, and your specific car's manual may have slightly different intervals or procedures based on its design. 
• Keep a maintenance log: Tracking all services can help you stay on schedule and can be useful for resale value. 
• Don't skip milestones: Ignoring these service intervals can lead to premature wear and expensive problems down the road. 

Can you customize your car color?

Changing a car's color is common and feasible by repainting, wrapping, or using removable coatings. Choose based on permanence desired, budget, finish quality, and local legal reporting requirements; get multiple professional quotes and confirm DMV/insurance rules before committing.

How much does it cost to get a custom color on a car?

Car painting costs vary widely: Expect to budget anywhere from $1,000 for a specially priced basic job to $10,000+ for high-quality or custom work, with an average around $4,000 for a mid-tier sedan repaint.

Can I legally paint my car a different color?

It's not illegal to repaint your car at all. However you are more likely to get pulled over if your car's color doesn't match the color on the registration which might turn into a hassle even if you didn't do anything wrong. You can contact your DMV and ask to change the color on your registration.