The demand for certified used vehicles is growing at an impressive rate. Why, might you wonder? We would hazard a guess that this increase in demand is being driven by economic pressures, changing consumer behaviour, and a heightened focus on vehicle reliability.
In South Africa, where affordability is a key factor in vehicle purchasing decisions, more consumers are looking for assurance that the used cars they buy are dependable. This is where AA Certification plays a crucial role in giving buyers peace of mind and helping dealerships stay competitive.
Why Certified Used Vehicles Are Gaining Popularity
Several factors are driving the increased demand for certified used vehicles. The rising cost of new cars due to inflation, global supply chain issues, and higher interest rates has made many consumers reconsider purchasing brand-new vehicles. It makes sense, when you take all this into consideration, that instead, they are turning to used cars. However, it’s not just any old, cheaper secondhand vehicle that consumers are after. They specifically want used options that have been properly inspected and are free from major defects.
In short, buyers in the preowned vehicle market have higher expectations for quality and transparency.
That’s not all, though. In addition, digital transformation in the automotive industry has made vehicle history and condition more accessible than ever. Consumers can now research a car’s background online, compare options, and look for third-party certifications that verify its condition. They no longer have to settle for a vehicle that they aren’t 100% sure about.
The Role Of AA Certification In The Future Of Used Vehicle Sales
As consumer expectations continue to rise, so to is the presence of vehicle certifications in the preowned vehicle market. One key programme that was launched more recently is the AA Certification Programme. The AA Certification provides an independent assessment that builds trust between dealerships and buyers, making it a valuable asset for any dealership selling used vehicles. Moreover, it is becoming a key differentiator in the used car market, making it so that buyers no longer have to take risks. They can buy a secondhand car that has been inspected for mechanical and safety issues, ensuring that they are making a sound investment.
Furthermore, there are benefits for those dealerships who offer AA-certified vehicles as they are able to attract more customers and justify higher price points. Additionally, it’s been found that certified cars tend to sell faster and with fewer disputes because buyers feel more confident in their purchases.
In a competitive market, the logical conclusion is that dealerships which embrace a certification programme, like the AA Certified Pre-Owned Inspections service, will likely outperform those that do not.
Prepare For Increased Certification Expectations
As the market continues to evolve, it seems likely that certification may play a greater role across a variety of aspects involved in the purchasing of a preowned vehicle. For instance, we may see this crop up in financing and insurance approvals with financial institutions and insurers prioritising vehicles with independent certification.
Additionally, with more buyers prioritising vehicle certification, dealerships must adapt to stay relevant. The future of the used car market will likely see certification becoming a standard expectation rather than a value-added benefit. Thankfully, the number of independent vehicle dealerships partnering with the AA across the country is growing.
If you’d like to find a AA Certified Pre-Owned Dealer close to you.