What time in the order/production cycle are VINs assigned?

[explorerww]

I have two Explorer STs on order with a dealer. One of which they had initially ordered as a dealer stock one, but seeing as it was an exact match it is earmarked for my wife and I.

I’ve asked for updates and received a rather clumsy status that it has been produced or is in production, but I can’t get a VIN number or any clear communication out of the sales guy.

Before I go in there and just be generally pissy on his lack of following through - what is the normal build process/cadence and at what stage should I expect a VIN number. I want to make sure I have a clear understanding and speak the same terminology.

Thanks guys - this forum has been amazingly informative.

 

[blwnsmoke]

If you ordered in May or later, typically about a few days later it gets assigned. I had originally ordered in January and it wasnt till April I believe bit that's because production didnt start till May.

 

[Stic-o]

If there doing it like they did the new Ranger, they don't go in order.

Do you have a print out of your order? You can go to the order website and track it. I just went through this all with my new Ranger. Order last Aug. And delivered Feb.

 

[peterk9]

Welcome to the Forum explorerww.
The VIN is usually assigned shortly after the order is pulled by the factory and before the vehicle goes into production.

Peter

 

[SBK_]

I see many Ford dealers in my area have more than 10 STs ready to be sold. So no waiting time.
I was wondering why a few folks here still need to order them.
Do you need to order because your dealers are out of stock or because the ones in stock don't have the features/colors you want ?

 

[explorerww]

I couldn't find any STs we wanted and/or with the options we needed. I do not have any official order paperwork or other documentation. If he can't seem to get it together and give me any information I am sure I can find another dealer that has what I want or willing to trade for it.

Why do companies make it so difficult for me to give them money?