The Ten Commandments of Car Meets
Car enthusiasts form a community built on a shared passion and admiration for all things automotive. Beyond the casual gatherings, car meets, and car shows, there’s an unspoken code of conduct that everyone, from seasoned car owners to first-time spectators, is expected to follow. These unwritten rules, shaped by tradition, culture, and mutual respect, help maintain the integrity of the car community.
#1: Windows Are Off-Limits
A common and important rule—never close a car door by the window. This is especially true for coupes. Touching the glass leaves fingerprints, and more than that, it shows a lack of respect for the car. Enthusiasts take pride in maintaining their vehicles, and smudged, oily prints on shiny glass can feel like an insult. Always close the door by the frame or handle to keep those windows spotless.
#2: Stay Shiny
Just like fingerprints on windows, showing up to a meet with a dirty car sends the wrong message. It implies that you don’t take as much pride in your car as others do. The car community is built on dedication to your vehicle, and that includes keeping it clean. A spotless vehicle shows respect for the culture and highlights your commitment to the hobby. Show up with a freshly washed, polished vehicle to truly represent your passion.
#3: Protect Your Paint
Maintaining your car’s paint job is just as important as keeping it clean. Avoid automatic car washes with brushes—they collect dirt and grime from previous washes, which can then be swirled across your paint, causing tiny scratches. Instead, choose a touchless wash or clean your car at home. Self-serve car washes are a great option, too, as they allow you to take your time and clean every corner. Bring quarters, microfiber towels for drying, and pay attention to detail.
#4: Respect the Rules
Perhaps the most essential rule of all: always follow the guidelines set for any meet or show. Most events have clear instructions, such as “No Hooning” (no revving, burnouts, racing, or any disruptive behavior). These rules aren’t just for safety—they help preserve the good standing of the car community. Car meets are meant to be enjoyable, not chaotic. Respect the atmosphere by keeping noise levels down and not drawing unnecessary attention. Don’t be the reason why a meet gets shut down early.
#5: Leash Your Pets
Bringing pets to car meets is common, especially dogs, but it’s important to ensure they’re well-behaved and on a leash at all times. Many events prohibit pets due to past incidents like fur, drool, or scratches on cars. If you’re allowed to bring your pet, make sure to check the rules and that they stay leashed and away from the vehicles.
#6: Keep an Eye on Your Children
Kids can be a challenge to manage at car meets. While it’s great to introduce the next generation to car culture, young children often don’t understand the boundaries needed around vehicles. Be sure to keep them within sight, and make sure they know not to touch the cars. It's best to bring your kids only when they’re old enough to grasp these rules.
#7: Only Take One Parking Spot
At car meets, space is often limited, and it’s considered disrespectful to take up more than your fair share. Park properly, don’t take up two spots, and do not park diagonally without permission. Parking backward is preferred, as it helps showcase your car and makes for smoother exits.
Unlike everyday parking lots, where you might fear door dings, most meet attendees understand and will be respectful of your space. There's no need to take up multiple spots or park defensively. Being considerate with parking not only helps ensure that everyone has space, but it also prevents you from drawing attention for the wrong reasons.
#8: Don’t Walk in Front of Cameras
Photography and videography are important to the car community, with many enthusiasts documenting events for social media, personal collections, or even professional portfolios. You’ll often see people with high-end cameras or drones flying above. It’s crucial to respect the photographers by not walking in front of their shots.
If you notice someone taking pictures or filming, be courteous and wait for them to finish before passing through their line of sight. These creators are helping to capture the beauty of the meet, and their work adds immense value to the community. Respect their craft by giving them the space they need.
#9: Themed Parking Etiquette
Car meets and shows sometimes have specific themes, such as JDM (Japanese Domestic Market), European, and muscle cars. If your vehicle doesn’t fit the theme, it’s respectful to park outside the main showcase area, allowing cars that match the theme to take center stage. Many hosts provide assistance with parking locations and share maps online along with their event flyers.
Additionally, don’t break up groups of similar cars. If there’s a row of Mustangs or a pack of Jeeps parked together, don’t slip into the space between them. Let themed cars stay together—it enhances the visual appeal of the meet and presents a perfect opportunity for cool photos.
#10: Don’t Touch What Isn’t Yours
This is the golden rule of the car community: don’t touch anything that doesn’t belong to you. This includes all vehicles and personal belongings. Car enthusiasts pour time, money, and passion into their vehicles, and touching them without permission is a serious breach of respect.
If you’re curious about a car or want a closer look inside, always ask the owner first. Most will be more than happy to show off their hard work, but they’ll appreciate you respecting their space. A good tip is to keep your hands behind your back when admiring someone’s car—this signals that you have no intention of touching it, and owners will notice your consideration.
Final Thoughts
By following these unwritten rules, you’ll show respect for both the cars and the people who love them. Car meets are more than just gatherings of enthusiasts—they reflect a shared culture and passion. Maintaining the community’s standards ensures that everyone can enjoy the experience.
So, the next time you attend a car meet, remember these rules. Not only will you enhance your own experience, but you’ll contribute to a positive and respectful atmosphere for everyone involved.
