Is it advisable to purchase a stock car from a 4S store?
2 Answers
Stock cars from 4S stores can be purchased, but it is not recommended. This is because stock cars have been parked for extended periods without undergoing periodic inspections and maintenance. Additionally, due to inadequate storage management, many stock cars are stored outdoors, exposed to sun and rain, which can lead to moisture damage and aging of electronic components and rubber parts. Below are methods to identify stock cars: 1. Check the production plate: Located below the B-pillar on the right side of the vehicle, the plate displays the production date and engine parameter information. 2. Inspect the glass: The glass will have markings indicating its manufacturing date and year. 3. Examine the tires: The production date on the tires can help determine the vehicle's manufacturing time. 4. Open the engine compartment: Start the engine and check if the compartment is clean.
I also considered buying a dealer's stock car before, thinking it was a great deal. Stock cars are those new vehicles that have been sitting in the dealership for a while without being sold, usually offered at a discounted price, saving you anywhere from a few thousand to tens of thousands of yuan. A friend of mine bought one and reported that it drives just like new, but you need to be extra cautious—after prolonged storage, the battery might discharge, or the engine oil could degrade. Make sure the sales staff conducts a thorough inspection, and ideally, request free replacements for any aged components, such as tires or wiper blades. Also, check the manufacturing date; if it's over six months old, the paint might have slightly faded, and there could be some dust inside. Overall, it offers good value for money as long as you're meticulous, negotiate the warranty terms, and it’s definitely a wallet-friendly option. Don’t just go for the cheapest and oldest model—opting for a mid-range one can save you a lot of hassle.
