What is the Difference Between Buying a Car from a 4S Store and a Car Dealership?
3 Answers
Differences between buying a car from a 4S store and a car dealership: 1. Different brands: A 4S store is an authorized dealer of a specific brand and can only sell cars of that single brand authorized by the manufacturer; car dealerships lack manufacturer certification and are not limited to selling a particular brand, offering a wide range of models. 2. Different after-sales services: A 4S store integrates car sales, maintenance, parts, and information services; car dealerships require customers to use warranty certificates for maintenance and repairs at any 4S store of the corresponding brand. To meet the annual sales targets set by car manufacturers and earn rebates, 4S stores often wholesale some cars to car dealerships, commonly known as secondary dealers. These comprehensive car sales stores have lower operating costs and can profit through high sales volume at low margins, so their prices are generally cheaper than those of 4S stores.
When I bought a car before, I carefully researched 4S shops and car dealerships. A 4S shop is like a big corporate storefront, officially authorized by the brand, offering a wide selection of new cars along with factory warranties and free maintenance services, which feels very secure. However, the prices are higher with little room for negotiation. Car dealerships are much more flexible, like small shops or used car markets, where you can find bargains, and the owner might offer discounts, making them suitable for those on a tight budget. But the after-sales service is not guaranteed—if something goes wrong, you have to find someone to fix it yourself, and you might even encounter problematic cars. I recommend that beginners prioritize 4S shops for peace of mind, while experienced car buyers who know their stuff can go to car dealerships to potentially save big. When purchasing a car, remember to check the warranty terms and buyer reviews—don’t just focus on the price.
I always like to shop around, and it's the same when buying a car. The starting price of new cars at 4S stores is high, but it includes services and accessories, with formal financial plans and low loan interest. Car dealers offer more affordable prices, especially since most sell used cars, allowing direct bargaining and more opportunities for good deals. However, the downside is that the condition of the cars varies, there's no original manufacturer support, and maintenance costs extra later on. I once bought a good car at a dealer and saved thousands, but later had trouble fixing the broken air conditioning. If long-term stability is a priority, 4S stores are reliable; if you want short-term savings, trying a car dealer is an option, but it's best to bring a knowledgeable friend to inspect the car together.
