What is the difference between a 4S store and an auto sales company?
3 Answers
4S store and company sales company are different as follows: 1. Vehicle sources: The vehicle sources of 4S stores and auto trading companies are both from manufacturers, but the vehicles of 4S stores come directly from manufacturers, while the vehicles of auto trading companies come from 4S stores. 2. Price: Generally, the selling price of vehicles in auto trading companies is cheaper than that in 4S stores, because the operating costs of 4S stores are higher than those of auto trading companies. 3. Service: In terms of service, 4S stores are more professional, whether it is pre-sales service or after-sales maintenance. Buying a car from an auto trading company may involve the issue of picking up the car in another location, but auto trading companies generally do not bear the transportation costs.
4S stores are primarily officially authorized dealers specializing in new car sales, parts supply, maintenance services, and customer feedback for a specific car brand. Car sales companies, on the other hand, are broader in scope, potentially selling new or used cars from multiple brands and may not offer comprehensive after-sales support. For example, when I bought a car at a 4S store last time, they handled the first maintenance directly and could track the car's condition; but car sales companies often focus only on sales, leaving after-sales services like repairs to be handled by the customer at external garages. In terms of pricing, 4S stores might be more expensive but reliable, while sales companies offer flexibility but come with higher risks. Overall, 4S stores provide more integrated services, making them suitable for those who prioritize safety; sales companies offer more choices, but require more inquiries into maintenance details.
4S stores are like the brand's siblings, exclusively selling new cars of a specific brand along with maintenance packages. On the other hand, car sales companies are more like comprehensive markets, offering a variety of vehicles, including used cars, without as many bundled services. I've encountered customers who bought from 4S stores, where the entire process is standardized, from test drives to maintenance, ensuring a smooth experience. Sales companies don't provide such guarantees, leaving customers to handle post-purchase matters themselves. The advantage of sales companies lies in their diverse and affordable car models, but it comes with risks. It's recommended to opt for 4S stores for new or high-end purchases for peace of mind; if you're looking to save money and want more options, sales companies are the way to go, provided you carefully review the contract.