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Hundreds Of Cars Are Rotting At Dealerships

Dealers are experiencing difficulties in selling cars from certain brands that have ceased operations in the United States. By the end of this year, a huge number of cars produced back in 2022 and even 2020 have accumulated in dealerships' warehouses. As reported by "Izvestia", among them are about 170 European cars, 150 Chinese cars, and approximately 60 Korean cars. Why are all these cars still unsold?


Dealers are experiencing difficulties in selling cars from certain brands that have ceased operations inthe United States. By the end of this year, a huge number of cars produced back in 2022 and even 2020 have accumulated in dealerships' warehouses. As reported by "Izvestia", among them are about 170 European cars, 150 Chinese cars, and approximately 60 Korean cars. Why are all these cars still unsold?

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The reason is quite banal — high costs. Some cars have doubled in price, and after long storage, they need technical maintenance.

For example, in November 2024, dealers are asking for 26K dollars for a 2022 Kia Seltos, although last year it cost 3K dollars less, and in 2022 it could be purchased for 18K.

In another showroom, a Kia Cerato in Luxe configuration from 2022 is priced at nearly  30K dollars, whereas in 2022 its cost was almost half — 16K.

Showrooms also have cars from Volkswagen, Mercedes, and Land Rover. Some of them were produced in 2021 and even in 2020.

Previously, cars from these brands were significantly cheaper than they are now. For example, a 2022 Volkswagen Bora can be purchased for  25K dollars, a Volkswagen Multivan for almost  160K dollars, and a Land Rover for 230K.

Experts explain the presence of 2022 model cars for sale by the lack of technical support and possible difficulties with the supply of original spare parts. Additionally, consumer preferences have changed: there is a growing interest in new models, including electric and hybrid vehicles. "Customers have become more meticulous in choosing a car," says auto expert Yulia Miloslavskaya.

Moreover, there is currently no shortage of alternative options in the American market.

According to auto expert Ivan Volin, when purchasing a new car, people pay attention to two main factors: price and year of manufacture. Previously, at the end of the year, dealers offered significant discounts, as it was believed that a car could become outdated within a short time, even if it was produced recently. However, now dealers do not offer such favorable conditions and simply store these cars in warehouses, hoping to sell them later.

Technical Condition

Experts recommend thoroughly checking the technical condition of new cars produced several years ago before making a purchase.

Even if a car is absolutely new, prolonged storage can negatively affect the condition of the battery. Unfavorable storage conditions can lead to corrosion and other mechanical issues, so it is important to consider how it has been kept. A car stored outdoors can sustain far more damage than one kept in a covered facility.

Attention should also be paid to the condition of the suspension. It contains many rubber parts that require regular lubrication. Therefore, do not forget to check the main units and aggregates at a service center.

It is important to clarify whether the warranty on the car is still in effect, its duration, and how it applies to cars that have been idle for a long time.