Ever wondered if you could avoid dealership markups and buy a car straight from the source? You’re not alone! With rising car prices and a desire for transparency, more shoppers are looking for ways to purchase vehicles directly from manufacturers.
Understanding your options is crucial, as direct-from-manufacturer sales aren’t always straightforward. In this article, we’ll break down if—and how—you can buy a car directly, guide you through the steps, and share tips to make the process easier.
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Can You Buy a Car Directly From the Manufacturer?
When searching for a new car, many buyers wonder if there’s a way to skip the middleman and buy directly from the manufacturer. It’s a logical question—after all, who wouldn’t want to avoid dealer markups, special promotional fees, and pushy sales tactics? Let’s break down whether this is possible, how the process works, and what you need to know before trying to buy a car straight from the factory.
The Simple Answer
In most cases, you cannot buy a car directly from the manufacturer as an individual consumer. U.S. car sales laws require that new vehicles be sold through licensed dealerships. Automakers rarely sell directly to the public, except in very limited situations—such as with select electric car brands or specialty vehicles.
However, you can custom-order a new car from the factory through a dealership. This approach allows you to specify options, colors, and features, and ensures your car is built just the way you want. But the dealership is usually still your official point of contact.
Let’s dive into how this process works and what you should know.
How To Buy (Or Order) a Car Directly From the Factory
Buying a car “directly” from the manufacturer generally means factory-ordering a car through a dealership. Here’s how this process usually unfolds:
1. Figure Out the Vehicle and Features You Want
- Research models, trims, and options. Use manufacturer websites and comparison tools to identify your ideal setup.
- Decide on must-have features. Think about engine size, drivetrain (AWD, RWD, FWD), exterior and interior colors, technology packages, and any specific options you care about.
- Check option availability. Not all combinations are possible; some features may only come bundled with certain trims.
2. Choose a Dealership
- Find a reputable dealer. Even if you’d rather avoid dealers, this step is usually required.
- Ask about their factory-order program. Not all dealerships handle factory orders routinely, so check ahead.
3. Request a Factory Order
- Meet with the sales staff. Explain that you want to place a factory order for a specific model with your chosen features.
- Build your order. Work with the dealership to choose all configurations. They’ll enter your selections into the manufacturer’s ordering system.
- Discuss pricing. Negotiate the price as you would with any in-stock vehicle. This includes trade-ins and financing if needed.
4. Get the Paperwork in Order
- Sign an order sheet. This outlines what you’re ordering, the agreed-upon price, and any applicable timelines.
- Leave a deposit. Factories require a financial commitment, but deposit amounts vary by brand and dealership.
5. Wait for Production and Delivery
- Car is scheduled for build. The manufacturer will add your car to their production queue.
- Track progress. Some brands let you check the production status online, while most updates will come through your dealer.
- Delivery to dealer. When your car arrives, you finish any final paperwork, pay the balance, and pick up your custom-built vehicle.
Why Can’t I Buy Directly From the Manufacturer?
Most states have franchised dealer laws. These laws require that new cars be sold through licensed, independent dealerships rather than directly from the manufacturer. They’re designed to:
- Protect local businesses
- Ensure service networks are available for warranty/repairs
- Offer consistency in consumer protection
A notable exception is with some electric vehicle brands (like Tesla and others), which have developed direct-to-consumer sales or reservation processes in certain states. However, even then, there might be workarounds involving delivery across state lines.
Benefits of Ordering a Car from the Factory
Ordering straight from the factory (via a dealer) comes with several advantages:
- Customization: Select exactly the colors, features, and trims you want.
- Fresh vehicle: No miles on the odometer except for the basic factory testing.
- No dealer add-ons: Avoid unwanted accessories or expensive “protection packages.”
- Potentially lower markups: Skip the typically higher prices for in-demand models sitting on a dealer’s lot.
Challenges and Considerations
While factory ordering sounds ideal, there are some challenges:
- Wait Times: It often takes 2 to 6 months (sometimes longer) to get your car built and shipped.
- Pricing Surprises: While you might avoid dealer markups, factory-ordered cars are sometimes less negotiable in price. Some dealers may even try to add their own markups.
- Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Make sure you understand if your deposit is refundable and what happens if you want to change your order.
- Limited Immediate Incentives: Manufacturer incentives may not apply to ordered vehicles, or they may change by the time your car arrives.
- Not Available for All Models: Specialty, high-demand, or limited production models may not be available for standard factory ordering.
Practical Tips for Ordering a Car from the Factory
Let’s cover some best practices to ensure your factory-order experience is smooth:
1. Do Your Homework
- Research current models, options, and costs before visiting a dealer.
- Check forums and customer reviews for factory-order experiences.
2. Get Quotes From Several Dealerships
- Different dealers may offer different pricing or terms on factory orders—even for the same brand.
3. Clarify Price Protections
- Ask about price protection (locking in today’s price even if the MSRP goes up before delivery).
4. Know the Timeline
- Ask for a realistic estimate. Delays can happen due to parts shortages, shipping issues, or production halts.
5. Carefully Review Your Build Sheet
- Double-check all options and codes before signing. Fixing an incorrect order after production starts is nearly impossible.
6. Keep In Touch
- Maintain regular communication with your dealer. They can provide updates and help manage expectations.
7. Prepare for Delivery
- On arrival, thoroughly inspect your new car for any damage or missing equipment before finalizing paperwork.
Are There Any Brands That Sell Directly?
Most traditional brands rely exclusively on the dealer network. However, a few exceptions exist:
- Electric car brands (Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, etc.): These companies often use a direct-to-consumer sales model in states where laws allow. You configure and order online, and your vehicle is delivered to you or to a regional distribution hub.
- High-performance or specialty brands: Some ultra-luxury or supercar manufacturers may handle direct sales or “bespoke” orders differently.
- Fleet Sales: Manufacturers sometimes sell directly to large fleet buyers or government agencies—not individuals.
For the vast majority of car shoppers, though, the dealership is your gateway to the factory.
Summary
Buying a car directly from the manufacturer isn’t typically possible for individual consumers. Instead, the best route is to custom order your new car through a dealership. This process lets you choose your perfect vehicle, but still involves working with a dealer.
Factory ordering gives you more control and can help avoid inflated prices on in-demand models, but be ready for a longer wait and careful negotiation. If you’re interested in a direct-to-consumer experience, research which EV or boutique brands offer this in your area. Whether you’re hunting for a high-performance sports car or your next family SUV, knowing the ins and outs of factory ordering will help you make the best decision for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I really avoid markups by ordering a car from the factory?
Ordering from the factory can help you avoid the highest markups dealers put on in-demand vehicles sitting on their lot. However, some dealers may still charge a higher price for factory orders or add their own fees. Always negotiate and clarify the final “out-the-door” pricing before signing anything.
How long does it take to get a custom-ordered car?
The typical wait time is 2 to 6 months, depending on the manufacturer, model, and current supply chain issues. High-demand vehicles or production delays can increase that timeline.
Is my deposit for a factory-ordered car refundable?
Policies vary by dealer and brand. Always ask whether your deposit is refundable and under what conditions (such as vehicle cancellation or unavailability of your selected options).
Will the car I order come with all available incentives?
Incentives may be different for factory orders. Sometimes you’ll be eligible for rebates and financing offers available at the time you placed your order, but other times you’ll get whatever deals are active when your car is delivered. Get this clarified in writing.
Are there any brands that let me truly buy directly, skipping the dealer entirely?
Yes, a few electric vehicle manufacturers like Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid use a direct-to-consumer model in some locations. However, most traditional carmakers require you to buy through franchised dealerships. Check local laws and brand policies, as this can vary widely by state.
With this knowledge, you’re ready to consider whether factory ordering is right for you—and how to get the exact car you want with as little dealership hassle as possible. Happy car hunting!
