The 8 Best Old-School Sayings in the Automotive Hobby
The Language of the Road: Car Enthusiasts and Their Favorite Phrases
Car culture is more than just a passion—it's a community, a shared language, and often a way of life. Whether you're working on a classic muscle car in your garage or simply admiring the sleek lines of a modern sports car, there are certain sayings that resonate deeply with those who live and breathe this hobby. These phrases aren’t just catchy—they’re part of a larger philosophy that guides how we approach our vehicles, our projects, and even our lives.
The Power of Shortcuts and Imperfections
One of the most common mantras among car enthusiasts is “Don’t get it right, just get it running.” This phrase might sound like a slap in the face to purists, but for many, it’s a reminder that the joy of driving comes from being able to hit the road rather than spending endless hours perfecting every detail. While some may argue that doing things the right way is essential, others believe that progress and functionality matter more. As one enthusiast put it, “I work on these things to drive them, not to make them the best.”
A Bit of Nonsense and a Lot of Charm
Not all automotive sayings are serious. Some are just plain silly, yet they stick around because of their catchiness. Take “Four wheels are better than two heels,” for example. It’s a playful way to express the idea that having four wheels means you can actually move forward, unlike someone who’s stuck on foot. It’s also a nod to the practicality of cars in places where public transportation isn’t reliable. While the phrase might sound like something a slick salesman would say, its charm lies in its simplicity and humor.
Another favorite is “Righty tighty, lefty loosey.” This one is a classic, referencing the direction in which standard hardware should be turned. It’s far more efficient than saying “turn clockwise or counterclockwise,” and it’s become a staple in the world of mechanics. Without such sayings, we’d be lost trying to figure out how to tighten a bolt or loosen a nut.
Safety, Style, and Sentiment
Some phrases have deeper meanings, especially when it comes to safety. “Keep the shiny side up” is a simple but powerful reminder to always keep your vehicle in good condition. It’s a streamlined version of a more elaborate prayer, and it’s easy to remember when you’re rushing out the door. For many, it’s a quick way to express hope for a safe journey without getting too deep into religious or spiritual language.
Then there’s “Rubbin’ is racin’,” a phrase that gained popularity through the movie Days of Thunder. It captures the essence of racing, emphasizing that even a slight contact between cars can be part of the competition. This saying reminds us that sometimes, the line between a fair race and an aggressive move is thin, and that experience and instinct play a big role in the sport.
The Economics of Cars
For those who pay close attention to car values, “When the top goes down, the price goes up” is a familiar refrain. It’s often true, especially when it comes to convertibles like Ferraris, which can be worth significantly more than their coupe counterparts. However, this rule isn’t absolute—some models, like Porsches, tend to hold their value better when they have a roof. This shows that while certain sayings can be helpful, they shouldn’t be taken as gospel.
The Curse of “While You’re in There”
No list of car-related phrases would be complete without mentioning “While you’re in there.” This one has a unique effect on people, depending on where they are in a project. At the beginning, it can be a logical suggestion—like replacing wheel bearings while you’re already working on the brakes. But by the time the project is done, it can feel like a curse. Many find themselves using it as a way to justify extra work, even if it wasn’t planned at first.
The Community of Car Enthusiasts
Ultimately, these sayings are more than just words—they’re part of the identity of car lovers. They help shape the way we think about our hobbies, guide our decisions, and bring us together in a shared culture. Whether you prefer a vintage muscle car or a modern electric vehicle, there’s something special about the language that surrounds the automotive world. And as long as there are people passionate about cars, these phrases will continue to live on, passed down from one generation to the next.