Some Southeast Texas car lots low on inventory amid microchip shortage brought on by pandemic There is still a way for you to buy your dream car and it involves a lot of patience. Author: Kelsey Johnson, Scott Eslinger (12NewsNow) Published: 12:47 PM CDT May 25, 2021 Updated: 12:47 PM CDT May 25, 2021 SILSBEE, Texas — Southeast Texas car dealerships are feeling the pinch as ripple effects of the pandemic continue with manufacturers across the country facing supply chain disruptions. There's been a drop in production that's been pretty extreme and it's all because of a microchip shortage. It's actually leading to fewer cars on lots across some Southeast Texas dealerships and it could take a year for inventory levels to get back to normal.