In many ways, they are the most visible part of a police department.
They carry the department's logo everywhere they go, reminding criminals and reassuring residents that officers are out protecting people every day.
They are the patrol cars used by law enforcers throughout the state, and it would be next to impossible for a police department or sheriff's office to operate without its fleet. Although the makes and models may be similar from agency to agency, the paint jobs of the cars distinctly represent their individual agency and the cities they serve.
"Essentially, they're flying the flag when they drive," said Salt Lake County Sheriff's Lt. Paul Jaroscak.
Salt Lake detective Jeff Bedard said a police car is a representation of the city. A rusty patrol car with a cracked windshield reflects badly on the entire city, he said.
"There's something about a new police car and in a state of good repair that gives the public a sense of comfort," he said.
Some cars have black and white paint. Some have blue lettering. Some have logos that stretch across the entire side of the car while others just have a logo on the door.
The yellow beehive on the side of the Utah Highway Patrol's vehicles may be one of the most recognized law-enforcement symbols in the state, said UHP trooper Cameron Roden.
"It's been around for a long time. People recognize it and who we are. It's represented us well," he said.
While some officers could not care less what their cars look like, Jaroscak said, there are some who take extra pride in their vehicles both inside and out.
"Those cars are like an office for some. They practically live in them every day. They want to take pride in their department," he said.
Cottonwood Heights detective Beau Babka agreed that how a patrol car looks is big for not just the image of the department but the city as well.
"It's been my experience (officers) feel a whole lot better about their image and their look and what service they're providing when their cars, uniforms and everything is in order and look good," he said. "Believe it or not, they get a lot of comments from citizens, 'We love your cars; we love your uniform.' Businessmen dress for success, and I think those in law enforcement dress for success as well."
But despite the pride some officers take in the paint jobs of their vehicles, Jaroscak said, "We don't change agencies because I like the look of their police car," he said.
In fact, much more important than the colors and decals is the working condition of the vehicle.
"What we want mostly is a car that works well, has no rattles and is dependable. A car that we're confident will get you from one place to another," Jaroscak said.
Babka agreed that a good, working vehicle is by far the most important part of having a patrol car. Babka recalled his first high-speed chase was in a vehicle that had particle board in place of a true floorboard. During the chase, the board slipped out of place.
"So I'm chasing this guy, and at 60 mph the whole car started to shudder. As I'm in the chase, I'm looking at the freeway beneath my feet. A sergeant in a brand new vehicle screams by me and made the arrests," he said.
E-mail: preavy@desnews.com