Article on Frustration of Buying Right Now (Toyota Dealership)

Dealership in NJ won't give quote via email. Must come in person to get quote.

https://jalopnik.com/this-conversation-with-a-dealer-will-hurt-your-brain-1847429900

 

Indeed.

The key word in that article (and what I've experienced) is "Available" vs. "In Stock or On The Lot". Every car listed on a dealer website is "Available" but may not actually be on their lot or in their possession. If you dig deep enough on any dealers website (regardless of brand), you'll find the disclaimer.

I say this because while I was waiting for my 4R to arrive at the dealer, the VIN popped up on their website as being "Available" for sale. My guess is a dealer may use the line once they get you in the door - "We just sold that one, but here are your options for getting one of your very own".

[edit] One more thing about "deposits" - When I was 4R shopping, I saw a wide difference in deposit "policies" on inbound allocations/vehicles. Some were "refundable" but most I ran into were "non-refundable". You could apply the deposit to another vehicle if you decided against the one you "ordered", but no refunds.

My dealer was also in the "no refund / dealer credit" category (due to "4R high demand"), but I did not worry to much about it because A) I was sure about my purchase and B) I was comfortable with my dealer choice.

Good luck out there!

 

With me deposit, I made sure it says 100% fully refundable until delivery. Mine was a Pro though so if I didn’t buy it, someone else would and likely pay more than our agreed price so I’m sure that factored into it as well.