Why Do People Name Their Cars?

Article overview

Ever wonder why people name their cars? From expressing personality to building a lasting connection, naming your vehicle can make every trip more personal. Learn the psychology behind it and get fun tips for choosing a name that fits your car perfectly.

Our new article breaks it all down for you! Learn about:

• The psychology behind why we name our cars.
• Fun and easy tips for picking the perfect car name.
• How naming your car strengthens your connection to it.
• Ways to embrace your car's personality through care and maintenance.

Reasons why people name their car

We spend a lot of time in our cars. In fact, in 2022, 269.5 million Americans collectively spent 93 billion hours behind the wheel and drove an estimated 2.8 trillion miles according to our own AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety survey. With all this time in your vehicle, why wouldn’t you name it?

So, does your car have a name? If not, don’t you think it’s time to give it one?

We all grow fond of our cars and trucks. It may be the first family car you remember as a kid or your first car when you turn 16.

Our vehicles become emotional repositories capturing that prom night that Dad gave you the car to use or the joy of putting the baby seat in the car for the first time to take your newborn baby home.

These major events shape our views of our constant companion that silently waits for the time it’s needed to get to work, take a vacation, venture out on a road trip or a quick dash to the grocery store for a forgotten item.

It seems natural that people would name their cars just like that old family friend.

The psychology behind naming your car

It might seem like a quirky habit, but there’s a fascinating psychological reason behind it. People name their cars because it helps them feel emotionally connected and makes driving more enjoyable. This simple act turns a machine into a trusted companion.

Why we name our cars

The main reason we give names to our vehicles is a concept called anthropomorphism. This is the tendency to give human traits, emotions or intentions to non-human things. By naming your car, you're not just assigning it a label; you're giving it a personality and a role in your life. This process helps us feel a stronger bond and a sense of control over our vehicle.

Here’s a closer look at why this practice is so common:

• An extension of your personality: Your car often reflects who you are. Whether it's a sporty convertible or a dependable family SUV, the vehicle you choose says something about your lifestyle and values. Giving it a name makes that connection even more personal.
• A symbol of freedom: For many, a car represents independence, adventure and the freedom to go anywhere. Naming your vehicle is like christening a ship before a long journey—it becomes a partner in your daily travels and life's biggest adventures.
• It's more common than you think: If you've named your car, you're in good company. According to drivingtest.org, nearly half of all drivers have given their vehicle a name at least once. This shared behavior highlights our collective desire to form a bond with our cars.
• Encourages better care: Interestingly, naming your car might make you a more responsible owner. Drivers who have named their cars often report a higher emotional investment. This bond can lead to better maintenance, more frequent cleaning and safer driving habits because you feel a sense of loyalty and responsibility toward your named companion.

Ultimately, naming your car transforms it from a simple mode of transportation into a meaningful part of your life story. It’s a small, creative way to build a positive relationship with the machine that gets you where you need to go.

What your car’s name says about you

Giving your car a name can say a lot about your personality and how you connect with your vehicle. Whether you go classic, clever or a little quirky, that choice often reflects your driving style—and your sense of humor, too.

Classic car names

Examples: Betsy, Big Red, Old Blue
These timeless names often come from a place of nostalgia. Drivers who choose them tend to see their cars as loyal companions—dependable, familiar and maybe even part of the family.

Pop culture car names

Examples: Lightning, Baby Yoda, KITT
Pop-culture lovers often draw inspiration from movies, shows or songs that make them smile. These names are fun, energetic and personality-driven—perfect for anyone who loves to make their car part of the story.

Luxury names

Examples: Sir Charles, The Duchess, Bentley Jr.
Refined and proud, these names suggest you take great care of your ride. Drivers who pick elegant or royal-sounding names often view their car as a symbol of achievement or sophistication.

Funny or quirky names

Examples: Chunky Monkey, Speedy, The Potato
Humorous car names show creativity and playfulness. You don’t take things too seriously—and that makes every drive a little more fun.

How to choose the perfect name for your car

Finding the right name for your vehicle can be a fun and creative process. It solidifies the bond you have with your ride and gives it a bit of character. If you're not sure where to start, these tips can help you find the perfect name to fit your car.

Car name inspiration

If you’re ready to name your car, here are a few simple steps to help you brainstorm a name that feels just right.

• Look at your car's personality
  Every car has a certain vibe. Is yours a sleek and speedy sports car that zips through traffic? Or is it a rugged, dependable truck ready for any adventure? Maybe it's a cute and quirky compact that’s perfect for city driving. A name like "Flash" suits a fast car, while "The Beast" might be better for a powerful SUV.

• Consider its color or model
  Sometimes, the best name is right in front of you. The color of your car can offer great inspiration. A brilliant red car could be "Ruby," while a dark gray or black vehicle might become "Shadow." The make or model can also spark ideas. A sturdy, large vehicle might earn the nickname "Tank."

• Think about memories or meaning
  A name can also come from a special memory or something meaningful to you. Think about a memorable road trip you took, a favorite song that was playing when you first drove it, or even a loved one. Naming your car after a place, like "Zion" or "Aspen," can be a great reminder of a past adventure.

• Say it out loud
  Once you have a few ideas, try saying them out loud. Does the name roll off the tongue? Does it feel right when you say, "Let's take [Your Car's Name] for a spin"? The perfect name should sound good to you and capture the essence of your vehicle.

But remember, whatever you name your car, AAA can help keep it running its best.

How to embrace your car’s personality

Once you've given your car a name, you've given it a personality. The next step is to embrace that character and build a lasting relationship. You named your car, now take care of it. This means more than just driving it; it's about looking after your four-wheeled companion through personalization and proper maintenance.

Here are a few fun ways to personalize your ride and keep it in top shape:

• Add personal touches: Small details can make a big impact. A custom keychain that matches your car's name or a unique dashboard decoration can reinforce its identity. These simple additions make your car feel even more like your own.

• Maintain its look: Keeping your car clean is like helping it put its best face forward. Regular washes and occasional detailing will preserve its appearance and protect the paint.

• Stay on top of maintenance: The most important part of caring for your car is keeping up with its maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, tire rotations and inspections are essential for its health and longevity. You can find trusted and reliable car care through AAA-owned Car Care Centers and also get ongoing maintenance and repairs through our network of AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities.

By investing in both its personality and its upkeep, you strengthen the emotional and practical connection you have with your vehicle.

Keep your car’s story going strong with AAA—from roadside assistance to battery service and trusted repair shops near you.