Are there any tricks when ordering a car from a 4S store without stock?

[Gabrielle]

In the automotive market, the demand for each car model changes daily, and vehicle prices may also fluctuate significantly. If the warehouse has too many new cars, there is a risk of inventory accumulation, and the merchant's funds may also face liquidity issues. Here is an introduction to 4S stores: 1. Introduction: A 4S store, fully known as an automobile sales service 4S store, is a sales outlet that integrates automobile sales, maintenance, parts, and information services. It was introduced from Europe to China after 1998. 2. Features: 4S stores are invested and built by dealers according to the standards set by automobile manufacturers. The design inside and outside the store is unified, with huge investments, often exceeding tens of millions, luxurious and grand, and a comfortable environment. They can only sell a single brand of cars specially authorized by the manufacturer. 3. Business Scope: The 4S store model has developed extremely rapidly in China in recent years. The 4S stores in the automotive industry are a business model introduced by automobile manufacturers to meet customer needs in terms of services. The core meaning of a 4S store is 'automobile lifetime service solution.'

[Norma]

I encountered quite a few tricks when helping a friend order a car. The 4S shop said there was no car in stock and collected a 10,000 yuan deposit, promising delivery within two weeks. However, it took two months to notify that the car had arrived, but a 5,000 yuan decoration package had to be purchased, otherwise, we would have to continue waiting. This is clearly forcing you to pay extra. The contract also stated that 'the final interpretation right belongs to the shop,' and if the car source was not genuine, the deposit would not be refunded. It is recommended to record promises before ordering, clearly sign the terms in writing, and if any problems arise, complaining to the consumer association is more effective. Compare quotes from different shops and don’t be fooled into paying rush fees.

[DiJason]

Ordering a car is so exhausting. I urgently need a car to commute to work, and the 4S store said it would take a month to sort it out. I paid an 8,000 deposit and waited eagerly. After a month passed, they called and said I had to purchase some dashcam for an extra 3,000 yuan to get the car, otherwise it would be delayed to next month. This is practically a trap, leveraging information asymmetry to drive up costs. Luckily, I found another store with more transparent pricing. Make sure to keep payment receipts and don’t get trapped. When ordering a car, clarify whether insurance and accessories are included.

[DeJoseph]

When I went to look at cars, I encountered a reservation situation. The salesperson was very enthusiastic, saying there were no cars in stock but they could be pre-ordered, recommending a membership service package costing several thousand yuan for priority delivery. Later, I tried without paying extra and still got the car, but I heard some people were tricked into paying additional deposits. There are many tricks, like making excuses if the car doesn't match. Don't be afraid to ask for details when ordering a car, visit more stores, and compare prices and timelines. Don't pay too much deposit at once.

[PresleyMarie]

Ordered a new car for my kid, the 4S dealership said no stock and charged a 5,000 deposit, verbally promising delivery in three weeks. Ended up waiting four weeks with no progress, and when pressed, they hinted at expediting only if we bought an insurance package. Upon arrival, the car had minor scratches which they dismissed as normal during transport. This kind of tactic is frustrating—advise getting a written contract upfront with clear penalty clauses for breaches. Deposits can be easily exploited, so verify the authenticity of the car source. Also, clarify all details during maintenance checks.

[Emmett]

I have experience in ordering cars. When car inventory is low, 4S dealerships tend to play tricks, such as delaying car delivery after collecting deposits and making excuses to avoid refunds; or charging extra for unnecessary accessories. Read the fine print in the contract carefully, and don't be fooled by 'force majeure' clauses. I once waited two months to pick up my car—it was exhausting. Now I've learned my lesson: choose reputable dealerships, pay deposits with receipts, and protect myself from being scammed.