Some cars are more than just cars, they have a larger than life reputation and history that makes them an iconic sight on the road. However, if you buy one of these Iconic brands like a Jeep Wrangler, or a Mini Cooper, there’s some rule you should be following, some rules that the sales person isn’t likely to tell you about. Worry not, this article will keep you out of trouble.
The Wave
One of the most common ownership rules of an iconic car is “the wave”. When you see another car of the same model, you are supposed to wave at them as a show of comradery.
If you’ve seen fellow Mini drivers wave at you, now you know why, and if you haven’t been waving back then you’ve been inadvertently breaking the rules!
Jeep takes it to the next level with an infamous “Wave Hierarchy” system where you’re Jeep is placed somewhere on a list based on it’s model and the lower scoring jeep is supposed to initiate the wave to the higher scoring Jeep, though understandably this is a system that’s falling to the wayside.
Strength In Numbers
Another important rule is when you see another car of the same brand you’re supposed to park next to it, provided there’s a space available.
Different models have different reasons provided for this. For Mini’s this is because they are small but have strength in numbers, like wolves. Where for big cars like Jeeps and Hummers this is more a show of strength.
Personal Touches
Jeep’s but specifically Jeep Wranglers have a massive aftermarket modding community, and as a Wrangler owner it’s expected that you’ll put your own personal touches on your Jeep.
Along with that, your car should have a name, it is an iconic brand, but it’s also a unique individual deserving of a name.
Attend a Meetup
If you own an iconic car then it’s expected that you should attend at least one meetup with other drivers. Mini or Jeep meetups happen quite regularly and can be easy enough to find through facebook groups or other online resources.
Owning one of these cars isn’t just about driving something iconic, it’s also about joining a community, and you should meet with this community at least once or twice.
Also Mini’s need to be socialised as well, sort of like taking your dog to the park.
Car Specific Rules
As you get further into it the rules get more and more individual to each of the cars. Mini has at least 10 rules that owners are supposed to follow, including things like not getting angry while driving, giving way to other Mini’s, and “always being ready for a rally”. You should do some research on your particular model to make sure you’re not missing any rules.
Obviously this is all in good fun and there’s nobody enforcing any of these rules, but if you want to fully embrace owning an iconic car, it’s better to embrace the full culture of the car as well.