Personalize your ride: What to name your car

What’s in a name? When it comes to car names, there’s likely a fun backstory to it. Or perhaps just big dreams along with some affection. Unlike your humans or pets, there are no ground rules when it comes to car names.

Really, what to name your car is totally up to you — and maybe your regular passengers. You can go with a stately name: The Luxury Cruiser. Or a classic one: Margaret. Or something completely random: Bongo. 

Often the moniker develops over time based on your car’s personality or the role it plays in your daily life. In other words, unlike your first child, you don’t need to name it right away.

Why people name their cars

Whatever you drive, sometimes a ride is more than just a vehicle. It becomes part of your family, so it feels appropriate to give it a name. Choosing good car names comes down to what you want to highlight.

The key is to match the car’s look, purpose or condition with the name that says it all. Give yourself some time to get to know your vehicle, and it may practically name itself. 

Find a car to name KSL Cars

Love your car? Give it a name deserving of its stature.

What to name my car

One way to come up with good car names is to think about what you use it for. Do you pick up all your friends for school each morning? Squad Car may be appropriate. 

Another option: Consider its temperament. Is your car super reliable? Old Ironsides fits the bill. Does it look like it’s been through a war zone? Proudly give it the moniker Mad Max.

You could also base the name on your car’s history. Is it an import? Could be a Klaus. Is there a long-running joke about its questionable performance? Something along the lines of Chugs or The Rattler may ring true.

Character names for cars

Movie, television and cartoon characters, they’re all on the table when deciding what to call your vehicle. Pick a favorite, or choose a name that emulates your car’s vibe.

• Dwayne, aka The Rock

• Pony Boy

• Fred Flintstone

• Hulk

• Harry (Dirty or Potter)

Rusty? Dirty Harry? Choose a name that fits your car's character.

Funny car names

Does your car have a quirky personality? Maybe it just looks ridiculous or makes odd sounds. Embrace it.

• Mr. Bean

• Frodo

• Harvey

• Fang

• Moaning Myrtle

Vintage car names

Old-fashioned names are perfect for vintage cars, but they also fit the bill for a vehicle that’s been around the block a few times — but doesn’t show signs of slowing down.

• Betty

• Boyd

• Gareth

• Gladys

• Agnes

Color-themed car names

If it doesn’t feel too on the nose, consider calling your car a name that leans into its color.

• Gray car names: Quicksilver, Terminator, Magneto

• Black car names: Raven, Morticia, Zorro

• White car names: Snow White, Pearl, Elsa

• Red car names: Clifford, Ron Burgundy, Atomic Fireball

• Orange car names: Cheeseball, Sahara, OJ

• Yellow car names: Big Bird, Kitty, Old Yeller

• Green car names: Dino, The Thing, Jade

• Blue car names: Picasso, Smurf, Bluey

Cute car names

Whether you drive a sweet little compact or you’ve accessorized your vehicle to the max, a cute car name may be fitting.

• Miss Muffet

• Bea

• Gru

• Peanut

• Daphne

Give your car a name that makes you smile.

Cool car names

If you had to describe how gorgeous and sleek your car is in just one word, what would it be? OK, what if your ride isn’t all that? Doesn’t matter. If you want a cool car name, no one will judge you.

• Cyclone

• Valkyrie

• Darth

• Inferno

• Knuckles

What’s a good name for a car?

There’s no right or wrong, good or bad name for a car, so don’t feel constrained to follow any kind of social norm. There isn’t one. Pick a name that makes you smile. After all, you’re the one driving it every day.

Still looking for a vehicle to give a name? Browse KSL Cars to find it.

Search listings on KSL Cars