Custom Car Orders: Everything You Need to Know

Do you have a specific car in mind with an exact idea of how you want the color, trim and accessories? If so, it’s our guess that you might have trouble finding exactly what you’re looking for while browsing dealership lots due to repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, global chip shortages, and supply chain issues. Thankfully, what you see on the lot is not all that is available to you! 

Ordering a custom made car is a great way to ensure that you get everything you’re looking for when buying a vehicle. Though it can take time and be pricey, the money and wait can be well worth it when you’re driving your dream car around town. Continue reading to learn more about the most commonly asked questions when ordering a custom car. 

What is a Custom Car Order? 

A custom car order is exactly what it sounds like — a vehicle that you customize and purchase directly from the factory. Custom ordering your car allows you to have more control over the style, color, and accessories that your dream vehicle will come with. Additionally, custom ordering also gives you access to vehicles that may not be popular in your area. 

How to Custom Order a Car 

The process of custom ordering a car can vary depending on which manufacturer you decide to buy through, however, in most cases, the customizing process can be done online. When ordering, shoppers can simply follow the steps on the manufacturer’s website to place an order, then find a local dealership to finalize the sale and set up a delivery date. Let’s take a closer look at what steps need to be taken in order to successfully custom order a vehicle. 

How to Order: Step-by-Step

1. Get qualified and pre-approved for a loan if you plan to use one to buy your custom vehicle.
2. Research all of your local dealerships and decide which one you want to work with. 
3. Design your dream car on the manufacturer’s website and make a copy of the final results.
4. Schedule an appointment for a custom order with your chosen dealership.
5. Negotiate a price with the salesperson and request the decided price in writing. 
6. Sign all the required paperwork.
7. Pay the required deposit to reserve your vehicle. 
8. Wait for your dream car to be delivered. 

5 Custom Car Order FAQs

Now that you know what a custom car order is and how the buying process works, let’s dive deeper and answer five common questions about custom car orders. 

1. How Long Does a Custom Order Take? 

The timeframe that it takes for your custom order to arrive at a dealership can vary, as it’s based on the specific make and model of your order. Generally, custom orders take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to arrive. However, throughout the building and shipping process the manufacturer or dealership should keep in contact with you regarding the estimated timeline.

2. Is a Deposit Required? 

In most cases, a deposit will be required to reserve your vehicle during the buying process. The amount of deposit varies between brands, but generally it is $1,000 or less. If you change your mind later in the process, your deposit can be refunded to you, but it’s important to pay it up front so that your car is reserved specifically for you. 

Related: Car Down Payments: Are They Necessary?

3. Will I Be Updated on the Progress of My Vehicle? 

In most cases, yes, you will be updated on the status of your custom car order as it progresses. However, this can vary depending on which manufacturer you ultimately decide to use. The dealership or manufacturer should update you throughout production and be able to provide you with an expected delivery date.

4. Will My Custom Order be Eligible for Incentives and Rebates?

Ordering customers are eligible for qualifying incentives at the time of order placement or qualifying incentives at the time of final delivery. These two options allow you to choose the most cost-effective option for your individual needs.  

5. Can You Negotiate the Price of a Custom Order? 

When working through a dealership to order your custom car, you can negotiate a price just like you would if you were buying a car off their lot. Similar to any other negotiation, do your research to see what other people are paying for similar vehicles to ensure that you get a fair price. 

Order Your Custom Car at Lexington M&L

No matter what kind of custom car you can come up with, Lexington M&L can and will turn your vision into a reality! With hundreds of options, you are sure to find the exact combination of make, model, colors, and accessories to make your vehicle uniquely yours.

Visit our website or use the button below to get into contact with our dealership so you can take the first steps to having your dream customized vehicle!