Are you in the market for a new car but feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of car dealerships? Finding the right one ensures a smooth and satisfying car-buying experience. This article will equip you with practical tips to find the best dealerships and make your car shopping journey a breeze.
Read Online Reviews
It’s good to check a car dealer’s online reputation before heading out for a test drive. With numerous review sites and resources available online, you can easily get an idea of what to expect from a specific dealership and determine if they’re worth spending time on.
If you find that only one or two reviewers had a bad experience, but the majority of reviews for the company are positive, it is worth giving them a chance. Begin your search on popular review platforms like Google and Yelp, and remember to check industry-specific review sites like DealerRater. This way, you can make a well-informed decision before visiting the dealership.
Look at Longevity
It’s wise to opt for a dealership that has been serving the community for several years or even decades. If a dealership started recently, it might disappear just as quickly. On the other hand, a dealership that withstands the test of time must have a good reputation among the locals to stay in business.
Consult your Network
Seek assistance from your friends when searching for a car dealership. Ask them for personal recommendations or consider posting on social media and request suggestions. You might receive special treatment if you mention your friend’s name while dealing with a particular sales team member. Car salespeople often rely on word of mouth to boost their business, so they strive to provide a positive customer experience that encourages referrals.
Consider asking yourself these three questions:
– Does anyone in my family or friends circle know a lot about cars?
– Do I know anyone who works at a car dealership?
– Do I know anyone who has purchased a new car in the last year?
Visit the Showroom
Search for a dealership with modern and inviting facilities. When the showroom, service area, and other customer spaces appear run-down, it might indicate a lack of pride in their business, which can affect how they treat clients. Visit multiple car dealerships in one day to compare and contrast their facilities.
Make sure the cars in the lot are clean and not dirty or dusty. Look for an organized area with well-maintained, updated landscaping and clear parking spaces for vehicles.
When you visit a dealership, pay attention to the level of customer service you receive. The sales team should be eager to assist you, professional, and friendly. If the staff at a dealership is unfriendly, unpleasant, or uninterested in assisting you, consider looking elsewhere. Choose a company that offers a pressure-free, pleasant atmosphere where you feel comfortable.