How long does it usually take to receive a car after placing an order at a 4S store?
3 Answers
After completing the car purchase procedures at a 4S store, it usually takes within a month to pick up the car under normal circumstances. For some popular models or customized imported cars, the delivery time may take up to six months. Test Drive and Price Negotiation: Visit the 4S store to view the car and request a test drive if conditions permit, while negotiating the car price with the salesperson. Based on a preliminary understanding of the new car's price and availability, agree on specific purchase costs and delivery time with the salesperson. Vehicle Inspection Procedures: At this stage, it's best to be meticulous. You can drive the car away, but the insurance may not take effect until the next day. The invoice can serve as a temporary license plate, and the vehicle inspection and registration can be done independently or with the assistance of the 4S store. Required Materials: Obtain a temporary movement permit, pay the additional purchase tax, provide 2 copies of the original invoice and its photocopy; 1 copy of the original certificate of conformity and its photocopy; 1 copy of the original ID card and its photocopy, and receive the vehicle purchase additional tax payment voucher and receipt.
I just placed an order for a new car at the 4S dealership last week. The waiting time really depends on the specific situation. Most family cars have sufficient inventory nowadays—if it's in stock, you can drive it home within three days after payment. For popular models or customized colors, it usually takes about a month for production and delivery. Imported cars take even longer; my friend waited two months for his Lexus. The salesperson told me I could check the logistics progress anytime during the waiting period and advised me to clearly specify the delivery date in the contract to avoid delays. During holidays or peak promotional periods like auto shows, waiting over a month is quite common.
Recently, I accompanied my cousin to pick up a car at a 4S dealership and found that the waiting time can be quite unpredictable. For joint-venture brands like Honda and Toyota, basic models are usually in stock and can be ready within a week. However, if you opt for upgrades like a premium sound system or special interior trim, the manufacturer may need to rearrange production, and waiting for 45 days is not uncommon. The salesperson secretly mentioned that sometimes transferring stock from another dealership in the same city is faster than waiting for the manufacturer, so checking with multiple branches can save time. Color also plays a crucial role—white and black cars are more likely to be in stock, while less popular colors like dark green or bright yellow will definitely require a longer wait. The impact of the pandemic has mostly subsided, but imported cars shipped by sea can still occasionally get stuck at customs.
