Wait Times for Factory-Ordered Cars in 2025: What to Expect

February 3, 2025

The automotive landscape in 2025 is reflective of the gradual recovery from the severe disruptions caused by the global chip shortage and other supply chain challenges that affected car production in the early 2020s. As the industry slowly rebounds, car buyers are keen to understand the current state of factory order wait times. This article delves into the expected wait times across various major automakers, providing a comprehensive view of how these delays are being managed and what consumers can anticipate when ordering new vehicles.

Kia and Hyundai Wait Times

Shared Components and Supply Chain Impact

Kia and Hyundai are two prominent players in the automotive market, with Hyundai Motors owning a substantial 51% stake in Kia. This relationship has fostered a high degree of integration, with many of their vehicles sharing a significant number of components. This interconnected utilization of parts has amplified the impact of supply chain issues on both brands; disruptions in one area often cascade into delays for both companies. However, as the automotive industry begins to stabilize, improvements in the supply chain are visible. The current wait times for factory orders are slowly but surely stabilizing, marking a positive trend for prospective car buyers.

For instance, customers placing orders for popular models like the Kia Telluride can expect to wait between 2 to 3 months. Similarly, the IONIQ 5, which enjoys high demand due to its advanced features and electric capabilities, has a consistent wait time of approximately 3 months. This is a significant improvement from previous years when wait times were longer due to supply chain bottlenecks. Other notable models such as the Elantra (select trims) and the Kia Sportage have wait times ranging from 2 to 4 months and 2 to 3 months, respectively. This marks a steady recovery in the availability of new vehicles from these manufacturers, indicating that they are effectively managing their supply chains and production capabilities in a challenging environment.

Subaru Wait Times

Impact of Chip Shortage

Subaru has been notably impacted by the global chip shortage, which has significantly hampered their ability to meet the high demand for their vehicles. The scarcity of semiconductors, crucial components in modern car manufacturing, has led to substantial delays in production and delivery. Despite these setbacks, Subaru has been making concerted efforts to improve delivery times for their factory-ordered vehicles. Prospective buyers can still expect some delays, with typical wait times ranging between one to four months, although specific models may face longer delays depending on their complexity and demand.

For example, the Ascent and Crosstrek, which are popular among consumers for their reliability and performance, typically have wait times ranging from 1 to 4 months and 1 to 3 months, respectively. The Forester, another highly-demanded model, has a more favorable wait time of 1 to 2 months. Meanwhile, the Impreza and Legacy models also fall within the 1 to 3 months range. These timelines reflect an incremental yet steady progress as Subaru navigates the supply chain complexities. With anticipated reductions in wait times, Subaru is working towards a more streamlined production process, aiming to meet consumer demand more effectively as supply chain issues gradually resolve.

Toyota Factory Order Wait Times

Allocation-Centric Approach

Toyota’s approach to handling factory orders in 2025 remains distinctive, centered around available allocations rather than custom orders. This strategy means that the wait times for a new Toyota can vary significantly based on the model and specific trim levels desired by the buyer. By managing inventory through allocations, Toyota can better predict and regulate the production and delivery schedules, ensuring a more efficient response to demand. Generally, most Toyota models benefit from this approach and do not experience extended waitlists, although there are a few exceptions based on popularity and specific features.

High-demand vehicles such as the Prius, GR86, GR Corolla, Grand Highlander Hybrid, Land Cruiser, Sienna, Supra M/T, and Spec Edition TRD Pros still have longer wait times, typically around 3 to 4 months for an allocation that has not yet been claimed. This reflects the significant consumer interest in these models and their advanced technological features. Other Toyota models, however, have better availability. This improved accessibility is a testament to Toyota’s efforts to streamline production processes and enhance inventory flow. Their nuanced approach to allocations has helped Toyota manage delivery expectations more effectively, aligning with their pragmatic strategy to address any residual supply chain limitations.

Honda Wait Times

Stable Supply Chain Management

Honda has been relatively successful in mitigating severe wait times for their factory-ordered vehicles in 2025. The lessons learned from past disruptions have allowed Honda to establish a more resilient supply chain management approach. The average wait time for most Honda models is now less than two months, signaling a recovery and stabilization in their production processes. However, specific models still face constraints, particularly those with tailored features or high demand, such as the Civic Si and Civic Type R.

For example, the Accord is available for immediate delivery upon a factory order, a remarkable achievement in the current market climate where delays are still prevalent. The regular Honda Civic has a slightly longer wait time of 1 to 2 months, which remains a competitive timeline compared to industry standards. Similarly, the CR-V and the Odyssey range from 1 to 2 months, showing Honda’s ability to maintain efficient production lines. The CR-V Hybrid, reflecting a broader industry trend for hybrid models due to their environmental benefits and fuel efficiency, has a wait time of 2 to 3 months. Furthermore, the Pilot and Ridgeline models are also available almost immediately or within a very short waiting period. This consistency in shorter wait times underscores Honda’s effective supply chain adjustments, robust production strategies, and their commitment to meeting consumer expectations.

Ram and Jeep Wait Times

Inventory Management

Ram and Jeep, both under the Stellantis umbrella, exhibit variances in factory order wait times based on the model and trim. These brands are notable for their high new car inventories, a situation that often allows for more flexible negotiations on lot inventories. However, factory orders remain less flexible regarding negotiating timelines, as production schedules must adhere to planned manufacturing and allocation strategies. With robust inventory management, Ram and Jeep have strived to balance demand with availability, ensuring they can adequately meet ongoing consumer interest.

For Ram trucks, the wait times vary slightly but remain within a manageable range. The Ram 1500, a popular choice for its performance and reliability, has a wait time of 2 to 3 months. For those requiring heavier-duty options, the Ram Super Duty takes between 3 to 5 months, reflecting the more complex manufacturing process for these models. Jeep models, on the other hand, have an average waiting period of 8 to 10 weeks. This relatively favorable availability underscores Ram and Jeep’s strategic inventory management, ensuring they effectively meet demand without overly prolonging the customer waiting period.

Ford Factory Order Wait Times

Mixed Picture in Delivery Times

Ford’s factory order wait times present a mixed picture in 2025, reflecting both the potential for prolonged waits and efficient deliveries depending on the model. Popular models such as the Bronco have a significantly prolonged wait time, ranging between 6 to 9 months. This delay underscores the enduring high demand for this iconic off-road SUV and the challenges Ford faces in scaling production to meet consumer interest. In contrast, the Ford F-150 showcases varied wait times based on trim levels: higher trims such as King Ranch, Tremor, and Platinum have a wait time of 5 to 6 months, whereas more common trims like the XL, XLT, and Lariat are available within 3 months or less.

The F-250 and F-350 models have relatively short wait times of 2 to 3 months, highlighting Ford’s capacity to expedite production for these models. Meanwhile, the Mustang, amplified by its enthusiastic consumer base, has a wait time of approximately 3 months. Ford’s ability to reduce wait times for certain popular models while managing extensive orders for others displays their strategic resilience in addressing both supply and consumer demand. This balanced approach aims to mitigate frustrations for customers while striving to maintain the production flow necessary to meet varied demands across their model lineup.

Tesla Wait Times

Dynamic Updates and Proactive Management

Tesla’s proactive approach to managing supply chain complexities and consumer expectations includes regularly updating wait times for its range of models. This encompasses the Model Y, Model 3, Model S, and Model X. The configurator on Tesla’s official website offers the most current and accurate estimates, reflecting the dynamic nature of their supply chain and production capabilities. By providing real-time information, Tesla ensures transparency and helps customers make informed decisions about their vehicle purchases.

In 2025, the wait times for Tesla’s Model 3 with either Aero or Sport wheels remain less than a month, showcasing efficient production processes. The Model 3 Long Range AWD with Sport wheels follows suit with a wait time close to one month. For the Model Y, the Long Range variant with either Gemini or Induction wheels reflects its popularity with a wait time extending from 1 to 3 months. This demand underscores Tesla’s appeal in the electric vehicle market, driven by its performance and innovative features. The high-end Model S Dual-Motor with Arachnid wheels and the Model X Dual-Motor with Cyberstream wheels show variability in wait times, typically falling between a month or extending slightly, reflecting their premium status and consumer interest.

Conclusion

By 2025, the automotive industry is showing signs of recovery from the significant disruptions created by the global chip shortage and other supply chain issues that plagued car production in the early 2020s. As the sector gradually regains stability, car buyers are eager to gain insight into the current factory order wait times. This article examines the anticipated wait periods for new vehicles across various leading automakers. It provides a thorough analysis of how these delays are being handled and what consumers should expect when placing orders for new cars. By understanding the evolving landscape of car manufacturing, buyers can make more informed decisions. As the industry adapts, manufacturers strive to improve their production processes and reduce wait times, ensuring that the lessons learned from past challenges contribute to a more resilient and efficient future. The gradual improvement is a testament to the industry’s ability to overcome adversity and move forward, offering consumers better forecasting and transparency in their car purchasing experience.

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