5 Ways to Find Inspiration For Finding the Perfect Look For Your Car

Tony Mers • November 28, 2018
painting a car

There are roughly 6 million auto accidents every year in the United States. Whether your vehicle has been damaged and you're in need of collision repair services or you are just sick of its current look, painting a caris a great way to improve its appearance.


You should put a little more thought into what color you want your car to be, however. Far too many vehicle owners simply think "I like red," and have their vehicle painted red -- but there are all kinds of different shades of red. Plus, red doesn't even look that great on all vehicle makes and models. You should consider all options when painting a car.


Whether you're browsing design options or searching for the best paint color for your vehicle, here are some great ways to come up with the perfect idea for your specific vehicle:



  • Check out car and truck magazines -- Whether it's an old issue or a brand new one, car and truck magazines are great for browsing design, styles, and color options.

  • Head to the dealership -- Don't bring any money with you so you don't get roped into making ay major purchases, but taking a look at various automotive stylings can give you some great inspiration.

  • Watch TV and movies -- It sounds silly, but if you really want your vehicle to look a certain way, watching your favorite movies and TV shows can help you identify that look. Visit local auto shows for inspiration, too!

  • Bust out your old Hot Wheels collection -- Remember how much fun you had when you were a kid with your Hot Wheels? Your nostalgia will kick right in when you find them again and you might even discover the exact color and design you've been searching for.

  • Surf the Internet -- Performing an online search might overwhelm you, but if you're Internet savvy, you'll be able to narrow down plenty of auto paint and design options. Start with image searches to get an idea of what you want your vehicle to look like and then do a little more detailed research on any specific paint jobs you're thinking about.


If you want to learn more about painting a car and visit a quality auto paint shop, give River North Collision Repair a visit right away!


Auto body technician wearing a respirator spray paints a masked SUV inside a brightly lit automotive
October 30, 2026
Can a body shop paint over metallic car paint? Learn how professionals prepare surfaces, match metallic colors, and restore your vehicle's appearance.
A woman with long brown hair wearing a tan coat and using a silver laptop at a round table.
October 26, 2026
An auto repair quote includes much more than replacement parts and labor. Learn what else a repair quote includes and what to expect before authorizing repairs.
A person wearing white gloves polishing the front of a dark car with a yellow rotary buffer beside i
October 21, 2026
Ignoring a car dent can lead to rust, paint damage, and costly repairs over time. Protect your vehicle's value and appearance with timely dent repair.
A black car with illuminated rear lights parked indoors beside another black car on a wet shop floor
October 13, 2026
Car bumper damage can result from collisions, parking accidents, and harsh weather. Learn the common causes and when you need professional repairs.
A person wearing a respirator spraying paint on a masked vehicle inside a work bay with tools mounte
By River North Collision Repair • September 24, 2026
Can a body shop match original factory paint? Find out how professional paint matching and blending help create a smooth, consistent vehicle finish.
A woman wearing sunglasses and a patterned scarf leaning against a black car inside an auto service
By River North Collision Repair • September 17, 2026
Spot common signs of pothole damage, from tire problems to dents, vibrations, and uneven wear. Know when your car may need professional repairs.
A black SUV with open doors parked inside an auto service bay with hoses, bins, other cars, and over
September 15, 2026
Looking to repair or replace your car? Before deciding which option works for you, consider repair costs, your vehicle's value, the damage, and safety.
A person wearing gloves using a polisher on a gray car panel with yellow tape along the window edges
September 3, 2026
Car paint damage from accidents, vandalism, or weather may qualify for insurance coverage. Learn what factors can affect your claim and repair costs.
August 27, 2026
Foggy headlights can reduce visibility and affect your vehicle’s appearance. Find out what causes cloudy lenses and how professional repair can restore clarity.