Jeffrey Lupient: Is Pre-Ordering a Car a Good Idea?

 

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Jeffrey Lupient: Should You Pre-Order a Car or Not?

There are some certain advantages when pre-ordering a car directly from the factory, says Jeffrey Lupient.

First, you'll get the exact car you want in the right color. You'll also get it complete with all the proper features and packages. You might also get a better deal on the car since the dealer won't have an extra car sitting in the lot. According to Jeffrey Lupient, dealers usually have to pay for it. 

Also, since you're ordering a car, your deal is an easy sale so that the seller could cut you a break. Lastly, aside from all the detailers and the salesperson who get the car ready for you when it arrives, you can be confident that you'll be the only person to ever sit in the car, as no one else has test-driven it.

That said, there are huge disadvantages to pre-ordering a car directly from the factory. 

First, you'll have a longer time to wait for the car. If you order a car, Jeffrey Lupient says it could take about six to eight weeks to get built and even more time to be delivered to the dealership. So, if you need a car as soon as possible, you're probably better off finding one in the dealer's stock.

Next, your trade could drop in value. If you do choose to wait for a car to be built because you currently have a vehicle that you're planning to trade in, your trade may lose its value while waiting for the new one to be built and delivered. Also, remember that special ordering is usually reserved for domestic and luxury brands. However, other brands might do it as well. To be sure, you can ask the salesperson.

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According to Jeffrey Lupient, you might also not get all the incentives. While a dealer can give you a discount if you order a car, you might also miss out on the manufacturer's current incentives for other trim levels of that same model.

Finally, you usually have to put down a non-refundable deposit when pre-ordering a car. Some dealers ask for a deposit. While the amount may vary, some dealers may ask for some deposit to ensure you will purchase the car when it arrives. After all, they won't want to order a custom-built car only for you to back out. Other customers may not like the same features you do, which means it could also take longer to sell that car.

Follow this Jeffrey Lupient blog for more tips and advice on purchasing cars.