There are a few of us out there who remember a time when buying a pre-owned vehicle would involve spending our weekends trekking from one dealership to the next, armed with the classified section tucked under our arms, and a dose of healthy scepticism at the ready.
Thankfully, those days have become a distant memory due to the amazing strides in technology. From how we brew our coffee and organise our vacations, all the way to how we’re able to procure a new (or new to you) set of wheels, everything has become streamlined, digital, and more efficient.
In particular, we would argue that the Fourth Industrial Revolution has completely transformed the pre-owned vehicle market.
Here’s a closer look at through some of the thrilling changes that have now made buying a secondhand car safer, easier, and even – dare we say – fun!
The Power Of Information
It used to be that when you would buy a used car, it was a risk. You would do your best to look over the vehicle, take it for a spin, and ask a few questions. While these are all still necessary steps, buying a pre-owned car can be a gamble. Well, those days are behind us thanks to technology. Now, for example, certain dealerships are using advanced diagnostic tools that allow for a more thorough inspection of the vehicle you’re interested in.
This has proven so useful that many dealerships and online platforms are now able to provide extremely thorough condition reports that give you an accurate overview of the vehicle’s status before you even see it for yourself.
The Digital Showroom
Speaking of going online, let’s consider how the Internet has all but replaced your local dealership’s car lot. Of course, there’s still a physical product being bought, so you will undoubtedly view the vehicle in person. However, it has to be said that online platforms have revolutionised how we compare, browse, and ultimately how we buy pre-owned vehicles.
These digital marketplaces provide all the information we need with a few clicks of a button, from high-resolution photos to detailed vehicle histories, and virtual tours that make it feel as though you are sitting in the driver’s seat. Essentially, it is possible to inspect as many vehicles as you like – without leaving your home.
That said, it’s more than just the convenience of shopping for a vehicle from wherever, whenever. You see, these digital platforms also use clever algorithms that match you to the cars that fit your budget and preferences. Think of it as having your own personal car shopper who knows what you are looking for.
Virtual Reality – Take A Test Drive From Your Living Room
While nothing compares to testing a car out for yourself, VR (virtual reality) technology is getting really close. A few of the forward-thinking dealerships, accompanied by online platforms, now offer ‘virtual test drives.’ This allows potential buyers to experience the vehicle’s interior, check out some of the features, and in some cases get a feeling of how the car handles through your VR headset.
This is certainly useful, and while an in-person test drive is necessary, it’s still a wonderful way for you to narrow down your options before you hit the dealerships. Your time is precious, so anything that can help you avoid wasting a single minute is worth it.
AI To Rescue
AI (Artificial Intelligence) is also making waves within the pre-owned vehicle market. You know all those pressing questions that you need to ask about any vehicles that you’re interested in paying your hard-earned money for? Well, there are AI-powered chatbots which can provide answers, assist you in navigating through listings, or simply give you information about a specific vehicle.
There are even some platforms using AI to predict maintenance costs into the future according to the vehicle’s current condition and history, helping you to make absolutely certain that your purchase is a wise one.
The AA Drives Technology Forward
The AA is currently taking the lead as one of the forerunners of this revolution in the pre-owned vehicle market. Specifically, they are leveraging cutting edge technology in the form of state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and AI-assisted valuations, to ensure that all South African car buyers have instant access to the latest tech this industry has to offer.
One of these standout services is the AA Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle Programme. With the use of advanced solutions, their expert technicians are able to perform comprehensive checks on used vehicles. The results are then compiled into a digital report that is easy to understand, complete with detailed explanations and photos.
Added to this, the AA has also embraced the arena of Big Data. By analysing countless vehicle transactions, they offer up-to-date and accurate vehicle valuations. This means that you can be sure you are securing fair deals, whether you are selling or buying.
So, What’s Next?
It is exciting to know that we are only just getting started on this technological ride. In the years to come, we are expectant of even more innovations, such as blockchain technology that enables tamper-proof vehicle histories, making them that much more trustworthy. Another example is the use of augmented reality that will allow buyers to virtually place the vehicle onto their properties – to make sure it fits into their garage or driveway. The possibilities seem endless!
This is certainly a good time to be entering the pre-owned vehicle market, so if you’re looking for an AA accredited dealership, click here. ed themselves previously to franchise dealerships or newer cars due to concerns relating to reliability.
As you can see, the innovative collaboration between independent dealerships and the AA involves more than just a business strategy, it has truly transformed the used car market in South Africa. By combining the expertise and trust of the AA with a more personalised service that independent dealerships provide, this partnership has created a superior purchasing experience overall. If you’re looking for an AA accredited dealership, click here.