How Long Does a Car Need to Sit Before It's Considered Inventory?
2 Answers
3 months is the threshold for a car to be considered inventory. Inventory cars generally refer to vehicles that remain unsold for more than 3 months after leaving the factory. There are typically two types of inventory cars: those that have spent the inventory period in the manufacturer's warehouse, and those that have spent it in the dealer's warehouse. When purchasing an inventory car, it's essential to thoroughly inspect its condition. Here's how to check an inventory car: 1. Check the car's nameplate: Usually located on both sides of the door, the nameplate can be seen by opening the door. It displays the vehicle's production date; generally, if it's over 6 months old, it's considered an inventory car. 2. Inspect the production date on the tires: The last two digits usually indicate the year of production, while the first two digits represent the week of that year when they were manufactured.
I've been driving for decades. Stock cars generally refer to vehicles that have been parked at dealerships for over 180 days without being sold. Typically, any car parked for more than six months is considered a stock car. For example, last time I went to a 4S store to look at cars, there was one that had been parked for over half a year—the battery was almost dead, and the tires were slightly deformed from being pressed. Cars parked for long periods tend to develop minor issues: engine oil settles, tires deform, and batteries drain, making repairs quite troublesome. When buying a car, it's advisable to check the production date label, which can usually be found on the windshield or door. If a car has been parked for over a year, dealerships often slash prices to clear inventory—it can be a great deal, but you need to be cautious about maintenance. I’ve personally bought such a car before and saved tens of thousands, but a full vehicle inspection beforehand is a must. Stock cars offer great value for money, but the duration of parking is a key factor—just don’t let it be too long.
