How Long Should the Red Ribbon on a New Car Be Kept?
2 Answers
The red ribbon tied when picking up a new car can be removed at any time, as it does not affect the vehicle. Why is a red ribbon tied on a new car: 1. The significance of the red ribbon: Buying a car is a major event and a joyous occasion, and red in China represents luck and celebration. Therefore, tying a red ribbon is meant to bring good fortune to the new car. In local customs, red is believed to ward off evil and ensure safety. People refer to tying a red ribbon on a car as "hanging red," thinking it can block negative energies and drive away bad luck. 2. The bright red color is highly noticeable and serves as a reminder to other drivers that this is a new car and possibly a novice driver, prompting them to be cautious and yield. 3. The earliest cars with red ribbons: The earliest tradition of tying red cloth strips was on tractors, which were then called "iron oxen." Due to the immense power of tractors, if they did not obey their owners, accidents could lead to severe disasters. Hence, folk customs adopted the practice of tying red cloth strips as a ceremonial act.
Just helped a friend deal with the red ribbon on his new car a couple of days ago. To be honest, it's really not advisable to keep it on for too long. I've seen people hang it on their rearview mirrors for a month, and the red ribbon turns into a black one, staining the car paint when it rains. The ones on the wheel hubs are the most dangerous—if they get caught in the brake disc, it could be disastrous! We all want good luck, but we should also be scientific about it, right? My suggestion is to enjoy the ride home on the day you pick up the car, but remove the ribbon as soon as you park. If you really want to take photos for keepsakes, tie it somewhere safe like near the exhaust pipe, and remove it after three to five days for the safest option.
