Every dealership is different but generally after you come to agreement on price they should put the order in with you on sight. If they say something like “ok great we’ll put the order in later today” then that’s kinda strange.
Most salespeople are set up to place the order but some places the manager might be the only one who can put it in. If the salesperson can do it, they will usually show you the ordering screen and you can select which color, trim level, and port installed accessories you want. They will then confirm your name, address, and contact information.
Generally a dealership will ask for some kind of deposit, this is normal as long as it’s refundable and goes toward the price of the car. You should then get receipt for your deposit, followed by a sheet with the Pipeline Status of the car.
There you will see your Vehicle Order Number and also the equipment that you chose as well as the color and trim level.
And now besides the receipt you should get a printout of what you see below:
If you get this then that’s how you know the order is legit. You will have an ETA that will show you what month (but not day) that the car will arrive and 9.8/10 times the car does arrive in that month. You can call your dealership or Subaru of America to ask for updates.
The “Status” will change and will show how closer the car is.
“Ordered” means the car has been ordered.
“Scheduled” will include a date and show what day the car is scheduled to get processed and have the port installed accessories installed.
“Released” means the car has been released from the Port to the freighter and ready to be shipped to the dealership.
“Shipped Rail” means the car is on a train to the final railhead.
“Shipped Truck” means the car is on a truck to the dealership.
The ETA usually changes when the status changes. When the car status changes to “Scheduled” that’s when you get your VIN. You will get an email (if you haven’t blocked SOA’s emails) with the VIN and the new status and you will get emails when those status changes.
The ETA has a cushion of about 10 days so don’t be surprised if the dealership calls you and the car arrives way earlier then expected.
Good luck, and let us know if you have any questions!