Automotive Forums

I was looking at a new Hyundai Tucson with an attractive price in the dealer's lot this morning but noticed that the manufacturing date on the driver's door pillar is December 15, 2005. Sure I realize it takes awhile to get here from Korea, but should I be worried? Do any warranties key off of manufacturing date rather than date of first retail use, for example?  

The warranty will start the day you purchase the car. The manufacturing date doesn't affect it.

Manufacturing date can have other effects, good and bad.

Bad: Cars that have been sitting may have more problems. For example, did the dealer change the oil based on time limit in the owner's manual (probably six month)? Was it driven often enough to keep the battery, tires, etc. in proper condition?

Good: Prices often increase during the year for American and Asian cars (the Europeans usually hold steady). As a result, early year cars will often have lower sticker prices. In addition, Chrysler and perhaps others as well often provides an extra rebate on old cars.