How Long Does a Car Have to Sit Before It's Considered a Stock Vehicle?
2 Answers
In China, vehicles that have been sitting for more than three months after leaving the factory (for domestic cars) or more than six months (for imported cars) are considered stock vehicles. Here are some purchasing suggestions regarding stock vehicles: 1. First, avoid buying stock vehicles, as most car owners lack sufficient automotive knowledge and may encounter issues with such purchases. 2. For domestic cars stored for less than six months or imported cars stored for less than a year, selective purchasing is possible. These vehicles, if well-maintained and not stored for too long, can be bought, often with significant discounts. Finally, avoid purchasing vehicles that have been in stock for over a year.
Having worked in a car dealership for many years, I can tell you that inventory cars typically refer to new vehicles that have been sitting unsold for over 6 months after leaving the factory. This 6-month threshold isn't rigid—it varies based on dealer standards or storage conditions. For instance, cars stored in high-temperature environments might be classified as inventory after just 3 months. Long storage periods often lead to common issues like battery drain, tire deformation, and lubricant sedimentation—key points I always remind customers to inspect. The upside is these cars usually come with discounts, potentially saving you thousands. But before purchasing, always check the manufacturing date label, test-drive to assess brakes and lighting, and verify the vehicle's condition. Also, note that inventory cycles differ significantly across brands—imported vehicles, for example, have longer transit times, making their classification more flexible.
