Mazda 6

SHOPSMART AUTOS – CUSTOMER INFORMATION – NOVEMBER 2, 2021 – 2


Global Chip Shortage Makes It Tough to Buy Certain Cars
Abuelsamid says that although it is difficult to predict the future, what’s happening right now is that a difficulty getting microchips is having an impact on new car sales. Ford, for example, said this week that its sales were down almost a third in August. Abuelsamid says Ford is countering the chip shortage-fueled sales decline by focusing more heavily on pricier vehicles that are more likely to turn a solid profit. “What we can say for certain is that, in general, auto manufacturers are prioritizing their newer products,” he says. “Models that are three, four, five years into their production cycle are going to be less likely to get parts for production. Newer and higher-volume vehicles—trucks, newer SUVs, EVs—those are going to get priority.” That’s good news for anyone who has been searching for a popular model. But while limited availability continues, CR has a few tips to help you navigate the challenging market. If you’re shopping for a new car because your old one has mechanical problems, Fisher suggests getting your old car fixed. In general, he says, it’s better to avoid a situation where you have to buy a new car because the old one is falling apart. In addition to the supply of new and used cars being limited, prices for both are higher than usual. Still, if you have to buy a car, Fisher says to look at models that aren’t in high demand—basically, ones that aren’t all-wheel-drive SUVs and pickup trucks. CR recommends a range of models that aren’t best sellers, so you can probably find deals on sedans and two-wheel-drive SUVs. You can also look at cars that are similar to high-demand models. If you can’t lay your hands on a Kia Telluride, for example, take a look at the very similar Hyundai Palisade or Toyota Highlander, Fisher says. CR recommends calling several dealers to ask what they have deals on. The answers may surprise you. You can also expand your search outside your geographical area. Just note that cars are being snapped up quickly, so it may be difficult to get to the one you want in time if it’s too far away. “The car shortage isn’t affecting every model the same way, so consumers can take advantage of the forgotten corners of the auto market,” Fisher says. “Now more than ever, it really pays to do a lot of research before you commit to anything.”

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