What are the differences between parallel imported cars and 4S store cars?
2 Answers
Parallel imported cars and 4S store cars differ in the following aspects: 1. Product difference: Parallel imports allow purchasing overseas models not available domestically; 4S stores only sell manufacturer-released China-spec vehicles. 2. Price difference: Parallel imported cars are generally cheaper; 4S store cars are more expensive. 3. Registration difference: Parallel imported cars must comply with domestic traffic regulations to be registered; vehicles sold by 4S stores all comply with Chinese traffic regulations and can be registered normally. When purchasing a car, pay attention to: 1. Check the vehicle's production date; 2. Inspect vehicle documents; 3. Check if the exterior is intact; 4. Inspect doors and trunk; 5. Check tires; 6. Examine seat interiors; 7. Test electrical systems; 8. Perform startup inspection.
I've thought about this issue because I struggled with it when buying my own car. Parallel imported cars are usually sourced through unofficial channels from abroad and may be cheaper than those from 4S stores since they bypass middlemen. However, the downside is that these cars generally don't come with the manufacturer's warranty. If you buy one and the engine or transmission has issues, you'll have to pay for repairs yourself, which could cost a fortune. In contrast, cars from 4S stores come directly from authorized dealers and include full warranties, such as three-year or 100,000-kilometer free maintenance services, making them much more worry-free. Additionally, parallel imported cars might offer rarer models, like overseas limited editions, but their configurations might not comply with local regulations, such as failing emission standards and causing issues during annual inspections. Personally, I think if you want to save money, you can choose parallel imports, but you'll have to take on the risks. If you prioritize peace of mind, 4S stores are the safer option—paying for service is worth it.
