I’m almost decided on getting a RAV4, but I really wanted a color like Cypress, which isn’t offered on the trim I want. I was trying to settle for Army Green, but that’s also not available on my preferred trim.
In my 22 years of owning cars, I’ve only had two, both bought used. So, for my next one, I want to get everything just right, including the color. Should I go to a third-party body shop for a paint job? I’m also concerned about wraps because I live in Central Florida, where the heat can cause them to degrade.
The Highlander has all the features and colors I want, but it feels like too much car for me. Any advice?
Toyota won’t give you a custom color. If you go to a body shop for a full paint job, it’s going to cost a lot since they’ll need to disassemble and paint every part properly. Paint isn’t cheap either.
Your best option might be to get it wrapped, which will run you a few thousand dollars.
@Renny
Would it still be considered custom if it’s a color they already offer on other models? I’ve always wondered why they can’t offer the same colors across all models.
Jaime said: @Renny
Would it still be considered custom if it’s a color they already offer on other models? I’ve always wondered why they can’t offer the same colors across all models.
Yes, it’s still considered custom. Some colors are locked to specific trims to maintain their ‘exclusivity.’ It’s kind of like how you can’t order TRD wheels for a non-TRD model. There are checks in place to keep everything exclusive to certain trims.
Jaime said: @Renny
Would it still be considered custom if it’s a color they already offer on other models? I’ve always wondered why they can’t offer the same colors across all models.
Toyota doesn’t do custom orders of any kind. Whatever the dealerships have on hand is what’s available.
Jaime said: @Renny
Would it still be considered custom if it’s a color they already offer on other models? I’ve always wondered why they can’t offer the same colors across all models.
The paint process is usually done by robots, and it wouldn’t be worth reprogramming them for just one order unless there were hundreds of people asking for the same thing.
Jaime said: @Renny
Would it still be considered custom if it’s a color they already offer on other models? I’ve always wondered why they can’t offer the same colors across all models.
And some of these cars aren’t even built in the same factories.
Jaime said: @Renny
Would it still be considered custom if it’s a color they already offer on other models? I’ve always wondered why they can’t offer the same colors across all models.
They could technically offer every color on every model, but for economic and logistical reasons, they don’t. It’s not just about switching the paint, it affects the whole production line.
If the color isn’t offered on the trim you want, there’s nothing you can do through Toyota. Your best bet is to get the car and wrap it in the color you like. A high-quality wrap won’t damage the paint and should last for several years. Expect to spend at least $2-3k on a good wrap.
I’m having a really hard time trying to get a Corolla Cross in the color and with the packages I want. It’s been such a hassle, I’m considering looking at Honda instead.
If Toyota doesn’t offer it, they’re not going to retool the line just for you. If you’re dead set on a custom color, you’ll need to find a coachbuilder, but then you won’t have the original factory paint.
@Jaime
I get it. Peace of mind matters. Maybe just keep looking and wait for the right vehicle to come along—it’ll be worth it in the end. Good luck, hope you find what you’re looking for!
I went through a similar thing with my 4Runner. I really wanted a nightshade model in dark grey with redwood seats and a third row, but that combo was so rare I couldn’t expect to find it. I ended up getting a black one instead and now, a year later, I’m happy I did. Dealers won’t let you place custom orders, so I had to settle.