Chip Shortage Woes: Buyers Share their Wild Stories Trying to Buy 2021 Toyota RAV4 and Other Models
I made a video yesterday for my “Toyotajeff” YouTube channel that details the ongoing vehicle shortage. This is due primarily to the “across-most-brands” computer chip shortage and some other factors.
I also gave practical tips and suggestions that might assist buyers as they search for the perfect car for them and their families.
Buyers have been finding noticeably smaller inventories at their dealerships. Not only in this country, but in others as well. This includes shortages of Toyota RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra and other popular models.
The comments people left about the lengths they have been going to so they can buy a vehicle moved me so much that I had to share their tales.
Toyota RAV4 and other purchase stories
These are comments and opinions from people searching for a 2021 Toyota RAV4 and other models.
Michele told her frustrating tale. “My dealer told me I could not order a car nor request one. They had no idea what was coming in. I asked them where on the east coast was the car I was looking for. They said the car I was looking for was in Roanoke Va. I live in Philadelphia. They would not ship it to me. I drove to Roanoke to pick up the car and trade my old car in. Now there are no deals for me at my local Toyota dealer.”
That is wild Michele. Good for you for the 379 mile drive each way. That is certainly one way to get what you want.
Tiffany commented sadly. “Went last week to test drive a RAV4 XLE. Left because they only had 2 RAV4 and not the trim I wanted. Bummer.”
RELATED VIDEO: I discuss the chip shortage and offer suggestions and tips for buying vehicles at this time.
Carbonunit lamented. “I have been shopping for a new 4runner but all the dealers are charging MSRP so that cancels my crazy good trade in value, so I’m going to take a rain check and wait for the lots to fill back up. probably looking for the 2022s to roll in.”
Riverwalker1 has an uncertain buying time frame. “I'm from Alberta, Canada and I'm on the list for a 2021 4Runner TRD Pro - absolutely no clue when it will arrive haha.”
“If you order a vehicle then most likely you will be paying full MSRP. You have little to no negotiation power so will pay more. That’s good for dealerships who are selling fewer vehicles but will make more profit with each one sold.” Dozier shared their impressions on the vehicle shortage.
Ag is looking but not finding. “My local Toyota normally has 300 on lot (but) they're at a little over 100. Looking at Camry xse and accord sport SE. Honda not offering anything good and I can't find a xse with red seats windchill pearl and local dealer can't get it.”
“6-month wait for 2021 4Runner Trail - that’s what dealer told me also they may cancel my order.” Shared xiangyu.
Juan Carlos is also having a challenge finding the right Highlander. “Here in Puerto Rico, we are having the same problem. Looking for a Moon Dust XLE Highlander and they are very very short on inventory.”
Kat commented. “This video is perfect timing! My local Toyota dealer can’t find the Prius LE awd for me in electric storm blue and is pushing me to to either take a different color or the 2wd. He said he searched 300 miles out and couldn’t find one, but I found one at another dealership that is certainly closer than that. He said it’s in freight and he will try and see if they’ll give it to us once it comes in.”
“Great Video!!! I went to Fred Anderson (Toyota in Raleigh NC) about a month ago and placed an order for a Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro magnetic gray metallic with some accessories. I just got a call the other day, said it would be the end of June before I get it. I don’t mind the wait and you do have to be patient if that’s what you want.” Offered Jason.
sdivikixjkhviud feels a little relieved over not feeling like the only one in this boat. “Thank you!! I am going thru this process now and felt like maybe I am missing something, but you have reassured me it’s the same process! :)”
2021 RAV4 and other inventory impressions
And, of course, there are those who are looking at dealer inventories but not necessarily buying right now.
“Not a single RAV4 or RAV4 Hybrid at the two Toyota lots in my city.” Said Cindy.
“Yeah. My local Toyota dealer has not a single tundra on the lot.” Said Vipper Nation.
Charles suggested. “You are better off if you can hold off buying a car truck or SUV. There are no good deals to be had!!! Their supplies are limited and have very undesirable ones. I live close to a large Toyota dealership and they had very little of anything and the ones they have are basic trim models.”
Kelli gave more insight. “My husband works for a used dealership and they’re having to get creative to fill their lot. We’re in west KY. They’re focusing advertising to the community right now that they’re buying local vehicles because buying from auction has gotten crazy.”
Compliments for my YouTube channel
I find it so nice that people leave me comments about enjoying my YouTube channel. I am so glad folks find my content entertaining and helpful.
John said. “Hi Jeff love your jokes and channel. I tried buying a rav4 hybrid in Los Angeles dealer asked $5k markup wow.”
Kiss Kiss had some good obvervations on the chip shortage. “Glad you made a video about this, Jeff. Remember that because of the Pandemic, used cars prices are through the ROOF!! Therefore, people are more likely to buy new cars... BUT without "chips" the supply is not meeting this demand. As you just mentioned, Jeff.”
Brian has a great story to tell. “This is an awesome video and Deja vu for me! I just experienced this. I live in Canada and I decided I want a Rav4 Limited. The dealer here had none, and also the plant in Ontario was closed for a while because of covid. I ordered one 2 days ago and it could take up to 2 months but likely sooner. I'm also getting more from my trade in than I expected and now I know why. A positive thing is I got to choose the exact color I want, blueprint with a beige interior.
I love your videos and they helped me a lot in choosing the vehicle that I'm buying. There are a few subtle differences in the Rav4 between Canada and the USA but overall, the information was valuable in helping choose. Thank you!!”
“This was very informational! I’m looking to trade my rav4 in before august when my lease is up and have been having a hard time finding what I want. I’m in CA and the dealership I usually go to has a huge shortage. This explains why. Thanks for the videos!!” Said Betty.
Time for your Toyota RAV4 and shortage comments
Thanks everyone for reading my story.
Do you have a comment about the chip shortage and vehicle shortage to share? Have you had luck finding the perfect RAV4 or another Toyota?
See you next story when I discuss the potential 2022 Toyota TRD Pro color - yellow. By the way, see what gasoline shortage leads to, and please follow us on Twitter.
The hoarding that followed the gasoline shortage is a very bad idea. Here is what we found.
-https://t.co/h67At6KhKt
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