What is the difference between parallel imported cars and 4S stores?
3 Answers
1. Price difference: Parallel imported cars do not need to go through sales channels such as general distributors, regional distributors, and 4S stores, saving many intermediate links. Therefore, the price of cars bought through parallel imports is lower than those bought at 4S stores. 2. Model difference: The parallel import car market introduces many models and configurations not available in domestic 4S stores, providing a richer selection. 3. After-sales service difference: Cars purchased at 4S stores can enjoy professional car maintenance and after-sales services authorized by the manufacturer, with very thorough after-sales care. However, parallel imported cars do not have comprehensive after-sales services.
The most obvious differences between parallel imported cars and 4S stores are price and risk. Parallel imports are purchased directly from abroad without middlemen, so they can be 20,000 to 30,000 RMB or even more cheaper. When I last researched Mercedes-Benz, I found some incredibly good deals. However, the issue is the lack of warranty protection—if the car breaks down, you have to find your own repair shop and may encounter problems with incompatible parts. 4S stores are official dealerships, with higher prices for new cars, but they offer a three-year warranty and regular maintenance, making things much more hassle-free. If you buy a parallel import, you also have to deal with customs procedures and language issues—having an entirely English manual can be quite annoying. Overall, if you want to save money and don’t mind the hassle, parallel imports are okay; if you prioritize stability and convenience, 4S stores are the better choice and more reliable in the long run.
From an after-sales service perspective, there's a significant gap between parallel imported vehicles and authorized 4S dealerships. 4S stores are brand-authorized with complete service networks – something as simple as an oil change or minor repair can be arranged with just a phone call, often covered under warranty. Parallel imports lack such convenience, typically relying on third-party warranties. A friend who bought a Land Rover had to seek repairs at independent garages – expensive with questionable reliability. Slow after-sales response directly impacts daily usability. When purchasing, consider post-sale services carefully rather than focusing solely on upfront cost savings that may lead to long-term hassles.
