How many months is a car considered as inventory?
3 Answers
An inventory car is typically considered to be one that has been in stock for 6 months. There are no national regulations specifying how many months a car must be in stock to be considered an inventory vehicle, but the industry generally regards cars that have been in stock for more than 3 months or over half a year as inventory cars. Things to consider when buying a car: 1. Choose the brand and model; 2. Select the price range; 3. Communicate rationally with the salesperson; 4. Choose the configuration; 5. Pay attention to the contract; 6. Check if the car's relevant documents are complete; 7. Inspect the car's exterior paint and interior for any damage; 8. Verify that the production date on the vehicle's nameplate matches the relevant documents; 9. Check if the engine is working properly and if the basic functions of the car are normal.
When I bought an inventory car, I found that it's usually been sitting for 3 to 6 months, which is considered a normal inventory cycle. For popular brands, even 1-2 months might count as inventory, while less popular or luxury brands may stay longer, such as over half a year. The storage time is greatly affected by seasons; sales are slower in winter, so inventory can easily drag on for six months, while it's shorter in summer. The advantage is the big discount, often saving thousands of dollars. I successfully bargained for a 15% off that time. But don’t just focus on the price—check key points: the production date label on the door pillar or in the engine bay to confirm it hasn’t exceeded 6 months; the battery is prone to depletion, so have the voltage tested before taking delivery; tires may deform from prolonged parking, so adjust the pressure. It’s best to ask the dealer to change the oil for free and perform a full inspection to ensure a safe drive home. As long as it’s well-maintained, an inventory car has no major issues and offers high value for money, making it suitable for budget-conscious buyers.
With 20 years of experience in auto repair, I often deal with issues related to inventory vehicles. Inventory cars stored for more than 3 months generally pose risks due to aging of major components. Batteries left unused for long periods tend to lose charge and have shortened lifespans; tires pressed against the ground may deform, causing vibrations at high speeds; fluids oxidize, affecting lubrication. It is recommended that buyers check the production date label and request dealers to replace engine oil and wiper blades for vehicles stored over 6 months. During inspection, test-start the car to check for stable idling and measure tire pressure for uniformity. Although prices may be discounted, subsequent maintenance costs could increase, such as replacing batteries or undercoating for rust protection. Don’t overlook wiper blades and the air conditioning system, as prolonged storage can lead to mold and unpleasant odors. Safety first—conduct a professional inspection before taking delivery, especially ensuring electronic devices are not dormant or malfunctioning. Inventory vehicles stored for 3 to 5 months are generally acceptable, but those exceeding half a year should be approached with caution.
