Yes, a dealership can almost always find a specific used car for you through a process known as a dealer trade or locate-and-transfer service. This is a standard practice, especially for larger dealership networks with access to extensive inventory databases. While your local lot's on-site selection is limited, their access to regional or even national networks significantly expands your options. The feasibility depends on the car's rarity, your flexibility on price, and your willingness to wait.
The process typically begins with you providing the dealership's sales manager with your exact criteria: make, model, year, trim level, desired features, color, and budget. They then search their internal network. If a match is found at another dealership, they arrange a transfer, which usually takes a few days to a week. There may be a transfer fee (anywhere from $200 to $800) to cover transportation costs, which is often negotiable.
Success rates and timelines vary based on what you're looking for. A common sedan like a Toyota Camry is easier to locate than a rare performance trim.
| Search Factor | Common Scenario | Challenging Scenario | Estimated Timeline | Potential Transfer Fee |
|---|
| Vehicle Popularity | High-volume model (Honda CR-V) | Low-volume, high-demand model (Toyota GR Supra) | 3-7 days | 2+ weeks |
| Trim Level & Options | Common trim (LE, SE) | Fully loaded model with specific packages | 5-10 days | 3+ weeks |
| Color Preference | Common color (white, black) | Rare or specific color combination | 4-8 days | 2-3 weeks |
| Budget Constraints | Aligned with market value | Significantly below average market price | 7-14 days | Indefinite / Low Success |
| Vehicle Age | 2-4 years old | Vintage or classic car (10+ years) | 10-20 days | Sourced through specialists |
It's crucial to get any fees and the final out-the-door price in writing before agreeing to the search. This service is most effective when you have very specific needs that aren't met by local online listings. For a more direct approach, using websites like AutoTrader yourself can give you leverage when you walk into the dealership and say, "I see you have this exact car at your sister store 100 miles away."
