Ever looked at your Hot Wheels Subaru and wondered how to make it truly your own? Customizing die-cast cars is a fun way to express your style and creativity, turning a simple toy into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Knowing how to custom your Hot Wheels Subaru matters for collectors and hobbyists alike, especially if you want your collection to stand out.
In this article, you’ll find easy steps, practical tips, and inspiration to transform your Subaru into something uniquely yours.
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How To Custom Hot Wheels Subaru Models: A Complete Guide
Hot Wheels Subaru cars, particularly the iconic WRX STI and Impreza 22B, are favorites among collectors and customizers worldwide. If you’re wondering how to create a custom Hot Wheels Subaru—whether for display, racing, or collecting—you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the full process, from choosing your base car to creating a show-stopping custom piece.
What Does It Mean to “Custom” a Hot Wheels Subaru?
Customizing a Hot Wheels Subaru involves modifying its look and feel. This could mean repainting the body, adding authentic decals, swapping wheels, or making other enhancements to give your tiny Subaru the style or realism you want. Enthusiasts customize for many reasons, including:
- Personal satisfaction and creativity
- Replicating their favorite real-world Subaru rally car or street version
- Increasing the uniqueness and value of their collection
- Trading or selling for profit
Step-by-Step: How to Custom a Hot Wheels Subaru
Ready to bring your vision to life? Here’s a breakdown of the key steps in customizing a Hot Wheels Subaru, whether you’re inspired by rally legends like Colin McRae’s Impreza or want a sleek street machine.
1. Select Your Base Model
Start with a 1:64 scale Hot Wheels Subaru, such as:
- Subaru Impreza 22B STI Version (great for rally builds)
- Subaru WRX STI (perfect for both modern and classic racers)
These models are regularly available, but rarer ones may cost more.
2. Gather Your Tools and Materials
For a quality custom, you’ll typically need:
- Miniature screwdrivers or drill
- Hobby knife
- Sandpaper or files
- Paints (spray, enamel, or acrylic)
- Primer and clearcoats (matte, satin, or gloss)
- Fine brushes or airbrush
- Decals or custom stickers
- Replacement wheels (rubber or plastic), axles, and wheel tools
- Superglue or model cement
- Masking tape
- Tweezers
3. Carefully Disassemble the Car
This is essential for detailed work:
- Remove the bottom rivets—either by drilling or carefully prying.
- Separate the car into body, interior, glass, wheels, and chassis.
- Set all tiny parts in labeled containers to avoid losing them.
4. Strip and Prepare the Body
Be patient—prep work ensures a smooth finish.
- Remove existing paint with paint stripper or acetone (use gloves).
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Sand rough edges and imperfections with 400-600 grit sandpaper.
- Wipe body clean to remove dust and residue.
5. Prime and Paint
This is where artistry begins!
- Apply a thin layer of primer to help the paint adhere.
- Let it dry completely.
- For color, use high-quality miniature or airbrush paint. Subaru rally blue or custom race color schemes are popular.
- Apply paint in light, even coats to avoid drips.
- Allow each coat to fully dry before the next.
6. Add Details and Decals
Customized details bring your Subaru to life.
- Use fine paintbrushes for grille, lights, trim, or sponsor logos.
- Apply custom water-slide decals for stripes or logos. Many sellers specialize in rally livery.
- Protect art with a satin, gloss, or matte clearcoat. Custom satin clearcoats, for instance, give a sleek, professional look sometimes seen in high-end customs.
7. Upgrade the Wheels
Swapping out wheels makes a huge impact.
- Cut the axle if needed and replace with premium wheels—like own-branded or aftermarket rubber tires with chrome or colored rims.
- Align and secure wheels for smooth rolling.
8. Reassemble and Secure
Once parts are painted and dry:
- Carefully fit the glass, interior, and chassis back together.
- Use strong glue to secure the body and base (unless you intend to open it again).
- Test for fit and function.
Key Benefits of Customizing a Hot Wheels Subaru
- Personal Expression: Your car reflects your unique style—not just another off-the-shelf model.
- Premium Details: Aftermarket wheels, rubber tires, and custom paints set your Subaru apart.
- Collector’s Value: Unique customs can command higher prices or trade value.
- Sense of Achievement: Completing a detailed custom is highly rewarding.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Paint Bleeding/Smudging: Let each coat dry fully, use masking tape for clean lines.
- Parts Losing Fit: Mark each part’s orientation before disassembly.
- Small Decals Tearing: Use tweezers, and wet the decal before applying.
- Finding Quality Wheels: Buy from specialized hobby shops or trusted custom shops.
- Body Warping During Stripping: Never soak plastic parts too long; only metal bodies.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Always wash your hands before handling bare metal or freshly painted models.
- Ventilate your workspace to avoid fumes from paint and glue.
- Practice airbrushing or hand brushing on scrap models before your main project.
- Photograph your work at each stage—useful for reference and sharing.
- Store finished customs in acrylic cases to protect paint and details.
Cost Tips: Saving Money and Shipping Advice
- Parts & Supplies: Buying wheel sets or paints in bulk saves money for frequent customizers.
- Base Models: Purchase base Hot Wheels Subarus during retail sales or from bulk lots online.
- Shipping: If ordering custom parts from overseas (like wheels or decals), combine shipments to lower per-item shipping costs. Consider local hobby shops to avoid hefty shipping.
- Completed Customs: Many custom Hot Wheels shops offer pre-made Subaru customs—great for those who want a professional finish without DIY effort. Factor in shipping (and customs duties where applicable) if ordering from international sellers.
- Display Cases: For high-value customs, invest in acrylic display cases, which are affordable and offer great protection.
Adding Value: Special Editions and Showcase Builds
Some customizers replicate famous Subaru models. For instance:
- Satin clearcoats over classic blue bring out a race-ready, modern look.
- Replicas of rally greats, like Colin McRae’s Impreza 22B, are popular and highly collectible, especially when paired with authentic rubber tires and display cases.
Limited edition customs, such as those offered by small specialist shops, often include:
- Hand-painted detailing
- Individually numbered bases
- Presentation in acrylic cases for collectors
Creating Your Own Subaru Custom Community
Many collectors and customizers connect through social media groups, forums, and custom clubs. Joining these communities allows you to:
- Get feedback and ideas
- Buy or trade custom Hot Wheels parts
- Show off your Subaru customs
- Learn new techniques from experienced enthusiasts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I strip the paint from a Hot Wheels Subaru safely?
Use a paint stripper designed for metal parts or acetone (ensure you have gloves and work in a well-ventilated area). Let it soak for a short period, then scrub gently with a toothbrush. Avoid soaking plastic windows or interiors, as these materials can warp.
What are the best paints to use for custom Hot Wheels cars?
Acrylic and enamel paints work best, with spray cans or airbrushes providing the smoothest finish. For details, high-quality model paints applied with fine brushes are ideal. Always use a primer first and finish with a protective clearcoat.
Where can I find custom Subaru wheels and decals?
Check local hobby shops, online specialty retailers, or custom Hot Wheels communities. Some sellers specialize in rubber racing tires, chrome rims, and authentic rally decals—great for replicating specific Subaru models.
How can I avoid damaging the car during disassembly?
Use the right-sized tools and take your time. Carefully drill out rivets at low speed and remember how parts fit together—taking photos helps. Store each small piece in labeled containers. Gentle handling is key!
Is customizing Hot Wheels cars expensive?
It depends on your approach. Initial costs for tools and supplies can add up, but individual base models and parts are usually affordable. Buying in bulk or joining group orders helps save money, particularly on shipping costs for specialized wheels and decals.
Conclusion
Customizing your Hot Wheels Subaru is a rewarding way to express your automotive passion, hone your crafting skills, and create exclusive collectibles. Whether you’re crafting a miniature rally legend or your own imaginative design, the process is as enjoyable as the finished product. Remember to be patient, pay attention to detail, and, most importantly, have fun bringing your tiny Subaru dreams to life. Happy customizing!