Do you believe in bad luck? Maybe not – but if you’ve just bought a new car, chances are someone has whispered: “Just don’t sign the papers on Friday the 13th.” The world of driving is full of myths and superstitions – even the most rational drivers secretly follow some of them. We've gathered some of the most curious (and amusing) car-related beliefs that are still alive today – sometimes literally on the road.

Never buy a car on Friday the 13th – or do you?

For many, Friday the 13th is already unlucky – but buying a car on that date is said to bring real trouble. Breakdowns, accidents, or just a bad vibe. Some old-school car dealers even avoided closing deals on this date to keep customers from getting spooked.

Fun fact: In some countries, fewer traffic accidents are reported on Friday the 13th – probably because more people choose to stay home.

The first scratch hurts – but sets you free

You park your brand-new car and circle the lot three times just to avoid anyone parking next to you. Sound familiar? Many believe the first scratch is inevitable – and somehow liberating. After it happens, you stop stressing over every little bump.

Some even say, “Better I scratch it than someone else.” Believe it or not, some people actually do it on purpose. Please don’t.

Loose change in the glove box = you’ll never be broke on the road

Spare coins in the car? Not just for parking. An old belief says if you always keep at least one coin in the car, you'll never truly be broke while driving. It’s seen as a lucky charm or even a symbol of prosperity.

Some drivers go further and add a Saint Christopher medallion to the dashboard – he's the patron saint of travelers and drivers. A little divine backup can’t hurt.

Never bring a sold car back to your garage

Here’s an odd one: In some places, it’s considered bad luck to bring a sold car back home – even briefly. The idea is that once a car is sold, it shouldn't “return” to its previous spot, or the sale might get reversed – spiritually or symbolically.

Why? Supposedly, clinging to something that's already gone can bring bad luck to your next vehicle. (Just for the record: there’s no legal rule about this – the new owner just wants to drive away.)

Red cars bring bad luck… or at least more speeding tickets

Red cars are surrounded by superstition: “They get pulled over more,” “They get stolen faster,” “They cause more accidents,” and so on. But is any of it true?

Studies in some countries have shown red cars get more tickets – but that might be because they stand out more or are often sportier models. Still, the myth lives on. Some people avoid red cars for this reason – while others buy them because of it.

Don’t park your new car at home until it’s been “blessed”

In rural traditions, a new car – especially a used one – shouldn’t be shown off or parked at home right away. It should be “blessed” first, either by a priest or at least driven around for a few days to avoid bringing bad luck to the household.

Why do we still believe in these things?

Buying a car – especially your first or a brand-new one – is a big deal. It’s no wonder fears come with it, and superstitions offer a kind of emotional safety net. A little “ritual” might not hurt – just as long as you also buckle your seatbelt.