Why You Should Opt for a Lighter Exterior Color for Your Car

However, an often-overlooked detail is the choice of exterior paint color, which can significantly impact the long-term ownership experience, from safety on the road to ease of maintenance and future resale value.

In reality, experts recommend opting for lighter colors such as white, silver, or light gray instead of darker shades like black, dark blue, or maroon. Here are specific reasons why lighter colors are not only aesthetically pleasing but also more practical and economical during car ownership.

Safer in low-visibility conditions

One of the distinct advantages of light-colored cars is their improved visibility on the road, especially in low-light conditions such as nighttime driving, heavy rain, or fog. Lighter colors like white and silver make the vehicle stand out against the surrounding environment, increasing the chances of being noticed by other drivers.

Research from Monash University (Australia) found that black cars have a 12% higher risk of collision compared to white cars. This is because darker cars tend to blend into the shadows or surroundings, making them harder to spot in critical moments, which can drastically change the outcome in emergency situations.

Reduced heat absorption and better fuel economy

In tropical countries like Vietnam, the intense sunlight can quickly heat up the car’s interior to uncomfortable levels. This effect is more pronounced in darker-colored cars, which absorb more heat. Conversely, light-colored cars, such as those in white or silver, reflect sunlight better, keeping the cabin significantly cooler.

By maintaining a more comfortable cabin temperature, you can reduce the reliance on air conditioning, leading to better fuel economy, less strain on the cooling system, and potentially extending the overall lifespan of the vehicle.

Easier to maintain

Contrary to popular belief, black cars or darker-colored cars do not hide dirt and imperfections better. In fact, small scratches, fingerprints after washing, dust, and raindrops are more visible on darker surfaces, making the car look untidy faster. Lighter colors like white or silver excel at “camouflaging” these imperfections, keeping the exterior looking neat and tidy, especially beneficial for busy individuals or those who cannot maintain their vehicles regularly.

Better resale value

Light-colored cars, especially neutral shades like white and silver, have consistently topped the charts as the most popular car colors in the market. Their appeal lies in their versatility, creating a good impression, and catering to a wide range of customers, from individual buyers to businesses.

Consequently, these light-colored cars tend to have higher liquidity, are easier to sell, and command better prices in the used car market. In contrast, darker colors like black, deep red, or dark green may appeal to a niche market, making it challenging to find buyers and potentially leading to a reduction in resale value.

Easier to customize, repaint, or repair

Light-colored cars have long been considered the perfect “canvas” for those who enjoy personalizing their vehicles. Whether it’s adding sports decals, changing the color with a wrap, or repainting after an accident, starting with a white or silver base is much easier. Lighter colors also tend to provide more consistent aesthetic results when modifying or repairing the vehicle’s surface and are less likely to show tone discrepancies during local touch-ups.

While color choice is a matter of personal preference, considering the practical advantages, convenience, and safety benefits, lighter colors offer a host of superior qualities. Especially in climates like Vietnam’s, where high temperatures and challenging driving visibility conditions prevail, choosing a light-colored car is not only an aesthetically pleasing decision but also a wise long-term investment.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)