Can I Change the Color on the Day of Vehicle Pickup?
3 Answers
Yes. Here are the relevant details: 1. Relevant regulations: To process the color change procedure, the applicant needs to bring the required documents to the vehicle management office for application. If compliant with regulations, the applicant can receive the "Approval for Change Notice," proceed to a 4S shop or auto repair shop for repainting, and after the vehicle color is changed, the vehicle owner or their agent must bring the necessary certificates along with the repainting invoice from the 4S shop or auto repair shop, and drive the repainted vehicle back to the vehicle management office for inspection procedures. 2. Notes: The vehicle body color cannot be identical or similar to that of special-purpose vehicles, the area covered by color-changing film cannot exceed one-third of the vehicle body, and the vehicle body cannot have more than three colors.
I often help friends with car purchases, and changing the color on the delivery day is basically impossible. Once a new car arrives at the dealership, its configuration, including the color, is already fixed—unlike clothes that can be swapped on the spot. If you want to change the color, you’ll need to reorder the car or wait for the dealer to arrange a transfer, which could take days or even weeks and may come with additional costs, such as expedited fees. Alternatively, wraps or paint jobs can alter the color, but these can’t be completed in a single day—they require professional equipment and expertise, and afterward, they may void the factory warranty. My advice is to inspect the actual car or test-drive models before signing the contract to ensure you’re happy with the color, avoiding last-minute changes. If you decide to make adjustments later, just go to a reputable customization shop.
Last year, I almost made this mistake when picking up my car. I suddenly wanted to change the color, but the dealer said it wasn't possible. Once the vehicle leaves the factory, the color is locked in, and the dealership's inventory is limited, making it impossible to switch on the same day. They explained that changing the color would require rearranging the process, which would take more time and cost more. Later, I realized it's best to visit several dealerships before purchasing to test drive cars in different colors and take some photos home to compare at leisure. If you really regret your choice afterward, you can opt for a color-changing wrap, but you'll have to wait a few days. Remember, the key is to make the right decision upfront to avoid being stuck at the pickup stage.
