How Long After Production is a Car Considered Inventory?
2 Answers
For domestically produced vehicles, those that have been in stock for more than six months after production are considered inventory cars. For imported vehicles, the threshold is 12 months. Joint-venture vehicles produced domestically follow the same timeline as domestic brands, being classified as inventory after six months. Additional information about inventory vehicles is as follows: 1. There is no legal definition for inventory vehicles; it's simply a term used by car salespeople to indicate vehicles that have been in stock for an extended period. 2. Inventory vehicles significantly impact dealers, especially given the rapid model updates in the automotive industry. These vehicles often feature outdated configurations and may be considered obsolete. Dealers typically sell inventory vehicles at discounted prices, so buyers should carefully consider all aspects before purchasing.
When I bought my car, the salesperson told me that an inventory car usually refers to a vehicle that has been sitting at the dealership for more than six months after leaving the factory without being sold. A neighbor in our community bought a discounted inventory car that had been stored for over half a year, and its battery failed within just a few weeks of driving. Prolonged storage can cause tire deformation, and the engine oil may degrade, affecting startup and performance. So, before buying a car, always check the manufacturing date sticker on the windshield—don’t just focus on the price and overlook the details. If the date is over six months old, it’s best to walk away or have the salesperson thoroughly inspect it. Personally, I think inventory cars stored in hot or humid conditions are more prone to issues. With proper maintenance, they might last a year, but the risks remain high. In short, safety first—choosing a freshly manufactured car is far more reassuring.
