What is the difference between a 4S store and a direct store?

[JaxonLee]

The main differences between a direct store and a 4S store: A 4S store refers to an automobile sales service station that integrates vehicle sales, spare parts supply, after-sales service, and information feedback. It directly cooperates with manufacturers and can receive relevant technical support, vehicle source information, and other assistance from the manufacturer. On the other hand, a direct store is only responsible for the sales of motor vehicles, and the vehicles in a direct store come from 4S stores. Below are the relevant introductions: 1. Explanation of 4S stores: (1) A 4S store actually refers to an automobile sales service store that integrates car sales (sale), spare parts supply (sparepart), after-sales service (service), and information feedback (survey). (2) Because 4S stores can provide multiple services, the scale and number of personnel in the store are relatively large. (3) The establishment of a 4S store will receive support from the automobile manufacturer, specifically technical support, vehicle source support, information support, etc. At the same time, the manufacturer will also require the 4S store to strive to build a good brand image and complete quarterly tasks. 2. Explanation of automobile direct stores: (1) Automobile direct stores are only responsible for selling cars and do not provide services such as license plate registration or insurance. Therefore, the storefront of a direct store does not need to be very large; it only needs to accommodate a few cars. (2) The vehicle sources of automobile direct stores come from 4S stores, so automobile direct stores are also called secondary dealers. Because direct stores are not regulated by manufacturers, most of their vehicle sources come from 4S stores, and a small portion comes from unknown channels. (3) Similarly, because they are not regulated by manufacturers, the prices of direct stores are lower than those of 4S stores, which is also the foundation of their survival.

[CassidyFitz]

When I changed cars a few years ago, I specifically compared the differences between these two types of dealerships. 4S stores are usually brand-authorized dealers with their own repair workshops and service teams in the suburbs, offering more comprehensive services overall. After buying a car, maintenance and repairs can be handled in one go, which is quite convenient, but prices might have more markup due to intermediary costs. Direct stores are outlets opened by the brands themselves, such as those in downtown shopping malls, offering a modern and relaxed shopping experience with simple and transparent processes. Prices are set directly by the manufacturer with fewer hidden tricks. They are conveniently located but require finding separate partner points for repairs, unlike 4S stores where everything is handled in one place. During repairs, I found that 4S technicians are more familiar with the car models, while direct stores are stronger in innovation but have inconsistent service quality. My buying advice depends on needs: choose 4S for full-service convenience or go for direct stores for simplicity and ease.

[MacTimothy]

Having bought cars for decades, I believe the key lies in service and reliability. Authorized 4S dealerships integrate sales and after-sales services with experienced technicians, offering greater peace of mind especially for older car repairs, though their locations may be less convenient, requiring a drive. Brand-owned direct stores, managed directly by the automaker, feature clean and attractive sales environments with standardized services, eliminating haggling pressure and offering fixed prices for hassle-free purchases. In terms of maintenance, 4S shops have in-house workshops, saving time on servicing; direct stores rely on outsourced services, which can be less convenient. Long-term, 4S shops provide broader after-sales coverage, such as free inspections during warranty periods, making them more convenient. For family car needs, I prioritize 4S dealerships—cost-effective and dependable.

[ReedLee]

As a car enthusiast, I've noticed that 4S represents the traditional dealership model, where stores are responsible for profits and losses, with large inventories and frequent promotions. Direct sales are more like brand flagship stores, with everything from sales to after-sales directly controlled by the manufacturer, offering trendy experiences like ordering via an app. In terms of service, 4S shops are more comprehensive and offer faster repairs; direct sales are simpler but rely on third-party repairs, which can be more expensive. Location differences are notable: 4S shops are typically in suburban areas with large facilities, while direct sales are located closer to urban centers for convenient car purchases and more innovative, cooler experiences. Overall, direct sales suit trendy brands better.