OK Used Cars: The Chevrolet Legacy Captured Forever with Vintage Porcelain & Neon Signs

The Nostalgic Chevy Advertising Campaign That Will Live Forever Through Vintage Porcelain Signs and Neon Can Signs 

If you grew up driving past small-town Chevrolet dealerships or watching your dad strike a handshake deal under a neon glow, chances are you remember the bold “OK Used Cars” signs hanging proudly out front. Bright, simple, and unmissably nostalgic, these signs weren’t just good marketing—they were a promise.

Today, “OK Used Cars” logos, porcelain signs, and neon displays have become some of the most sought-after items in the world of vintage advertising. But how did this iconic branding start, and why does it still resonate so strongly with collectors decades later?

Where It All Started

Chevrolet launched the “OK Used Cars” program in the mid-1920s as a way to add trust and consistency to the used car buying experience. Back then, buying a pre-owned vehicle was a gamble. Chevy aimed to fix that with a certified inspection process backed by what they called the “famous red O.K. tag system.”

Each used car sold under the program had to pass a checklist inspection, covering essentials like the engine, brakes, and transmission. Once it passed, the car earned the bright red OK tag—meaning the dealership stood behind it. For buyers, it brought peace of mind; for Chevrolet, it built customer loyalty.

A Sign of Quality

To promote the program, dealerships across the country displayed bold OK Used Cars signage, usually in bright yellow, red, and blue. These weren’t cheap throwaways—they were crafted from porcelain enamel, fired in kilns to produce a deep, glossy finish that resisted the elements for decades. Many were also built with neon tubing, turning dealership lots into glowing beacons after sunset.

These signs did more than advertise used cars. They told a story of reliability, trust, and small-town customer service. Over time, the logo and its familiar script became a lasting symbol of Chevrolet’s golden era.

Why Collectors Can’t Get Enough

Today, original OK Used Cars signs—especially porcelain or neon versions—fetch thousands at auction and are centerpieces in garages, man caves, and showrooms. But what makes them so popular?

• Nostalgia: These signs evoke memories of a simpler time—weekend drives, car shopping with your parents, or the first time you walked onto a dealership lot.

• Craftsmanship: Like many vintage signs, they were made to last. Heavy steel, real porcelain enamel, and hand-blown neon. No stickers. No shortcuts.

• Design: The bold colors and playful script are instantly recognizable and visually striking, even in a crowded collection.

• Rarity: While Chevrolet produced many signs, most were lost to time, weather, or demolition. Finding one in good condition today is a prize.

A Legacy That Endures

The OK Used Cars brand is more than just a slogan. It’s a piece of American automotive history—a reminder of when businesses stood behind their word, and signs were built to last. Whether hanging in a garage or glowing above a vintage car collection, these signs continue to capture the imagination of collectors who appreciate quality, authenticity, and history.

That’s why I started Porcelain Advertising to offer those who appreciate vintage craftsmanship and are looking for a better quality porcelain and neon sign to buy. That’s why we make signs the way they used to be made—heavy steel, kiln-fired porcelain, and built to last a lifetime. Because some things shouldn’t be compromised.