When a car manufacturer announces that a model is being discontinued, it often triggers one thing: discounts. Dealers are eager to move stock quickly, and for savvy buyers, this can look like a golden opportunity.
But before you jump at the price tag, there are a few things you should seriously consider - especially if you're planning to finance the vehicle.
When a car is taken off the production line, its resale appeal usually takes a hit. Dealerships need to clear floor space, and manufacturers may offer rebates to help shift old stock. That’s why discontinued models often come with thousands shaved off the price — sometimes even more if the vehicle has been sitting around for a while.
Discontinued cars often depreciate faster than current models. This isn’t just about what you get when it’s time to sell - it can affect your finance terms today. Lenders look at residual values when assessing the risk of the loan. If a vehicle is expected to lose value quickly, you might:
If the model is no longer in production, parts availability can become an issue over time. While most manufacturers continue to support their vehicles for several years, rare or unique models might require imported parts, which means longer waits and higher repair costs.
Tip: Check whether the discontinued model shares parts or a platform with other ongoing models - that usually means better long-term servicing support.
This one catches people off guard. Some insurers place higher premiums on discontinued vehicles due to limited parts availability, lower resale values, or even difficulty in sourcing replacement vehicles after a write-off. Before you commit, always get an insurance quote.
As more vehicles become software-dependent (for things like infotainment, driver assists, and navigation), discontinued models may lose access to future updates, or in rare cases, support altogether. If long-term tech reliability matters to you, look into how the manufacturer supports older vehicles, or whether they plan to sunset system updates.
In many cases, yes. A discontinued vehicle can offer real value, particularly if:
But it’s not always as simple as “cheaper is better.” Especially with finance in the mix, a low sticker price doesn’t always equal a smart deal.
As asset finance brokers, we look at the bigger picture - not just the sticker price. We help you compare finance options, flag risks lenders might see, and make sure you’re getting value across the lifetime of the loan.
Thinking about picking up a discontinued car? Let’s make sure it’s a good financial fit for you.
