How Long Does It Take for a Car to Be Considered Inventory?

[Evangeline]

Inventory cars and their storage duration are not explicitly defined or regulated by law. Generally, it ranges from 3 to 6 months, but some may exceed 6 months or even a year, with extreme cases lasting several years. An inventory car refers to a vehicle that has not been sold immediately, similar to stock items in a supermarket or mall. Here are two methods to identify an inventory car: 1. The engine oil and coolant need to be replaced. Additionally, check for signs of tire weathering, oxidation of the car's paint, aging or cracking of sealing strips and wiring harnesses, battery functionality, whether various fluids need replacement, and any oil leaks or damage to the chassis. Most importantly, a test drive is essential—driving on the road best reveals a car's performance and condition. 2. Open the engine hood or the driver's side door to find the manufacturer's labeled vehicle model and production date, among other details. The vehicle's production date is also clearly stated on the factory certificate. The condition of an inventory car is not solely determined by its storage time but also significantly depends on the dealer's storage environment and regular maintenance.