Older used vehicles changing dealer habits
Dealers are changing their working habits to because of the growing number of older used vehicles they are now selling.
This comes after the RAC Foundation found that the average age of cars is now older than ever at nine years and 10 months.
According to Startline’s March Used Car Tracker, 39% say they are spending longer ‘reassuring customers’ about the quality and reliability of older used vehicles, while 39% are more focused on ensuring vehicles are accurately priced.
Meanwhile, 36% have adopted more comprehensive pre-sale checks and 33% are investing more in vehicle cosmetics.
A third are also introducing more comprehensive warranty packages and considering the condition of potential stock more carefully, and nearly a quarter (23%) say vehicle history has become a more pertinent factor.
Rapid ageing
Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance, said: “There’s been a fairly rapid ageing of the used vehicle parc, especially since the pandemic, and this research shows how dealers are handling that situation.
“It’s interesting that the top response is simply that they spend longer talking to potential buyers, presumably to allay any fears over buying an older car and explaining how it still represents a sound purchase.
“However, more practical moves such as higher preparation standards and a better warranty underpin this approach. Dealers might invest more time in reassuring customers but they are also providing them with a high level of concrete support.”
