What is the difference between secondary car dealers and 4S stores?

[LeDamian]

Secondary dealers sell more car brands, while 4S stores only sell cars of a single brand. The car prices at secondary dealers are usually cheaper than those at 4S stores. Additionally, secondary dealers only sell cars and do not provide after-sales maintenance services, whereas 4S stores can offer both car sales and after-sales maintenance services to customers. The specific differences between secondary car dealers and 4S stores are as follows: 1. Different types of services: Most secondary dealers only sell cars and do not offer services such as vehicle insurance and after-sales maintenance; while 4S stores, as the name suggests, are car enterprises that include vehicle sales, spare parts sales, after-sales services, and feedback to manufacturers. 2. Different relationships with general dealers and manufacturers: 4S stores are invested and established by general dealers and receive technical support from manufacturers. 4S stores also need to complete the sales tasks and after-sales performance assigned by general dealers and manufacturers. Secondary dealers, on the other hand, are invested and opened by individuals and generally do not receive certification from manufacturers and general dealers. Therefore, many secondary dealers do not offer after-sales services, and car owners can only go to 4S stores for such services. Secondary dealers are also known as 2S stores. 3. Different sources of cars: The cars in 4S stores come from manufacturers and general dealers, ensuring high quality; while most cars in secondary dealers come from 4S stores, and some unscrupulous dealers may have cars of unknown origin, possibly refurbished or stock cars. The quality is difficult to guarantee. 4. Secondary dealers offer cheaper prices than 4S stores: This is also the main reason why secondary dealers can stand firm in the face of powerful 4S stores. Secondary dealers do not have as many sales policies as 4S stores and mostly sell cars without additional services.

[VincentMarie]

When I was buying a car, I compared secondary dealers and 4S stores, and found the biggest differences lie in authorization and after-sales service. 4S stores are directly authorized by car brands, just like Apple stores—they sell new cars while also handling after-sales maintenance, with all parts being genuine and including warranties. After buying from a 4S store, if anything goes wrong, I can just go back for repairs—much more hassle-free. Secondary dealers lack official authorization and may sell new or used cars at slightly lower prices, like when my friend got a bargain. But when issues arose, repair quality was hard to guarantee, and parts might not even be original. Overall, 4S stores cost more for comprehensive services, suiting buyers like me who prefer convenience; secondary dealers fit tighter budgets but come with risks you have to bear yourself.

[DelChloe]

Having driven for over a decade, I always feel that 4S stores are more reliable. They have professionally trained technicians and standardized procedures, such as maintenance and repairs carried out according to the manufacturer's specifications, so there's no worry about safety. As for secondary dealers, they offer more flexibility and can negotiate lower prices, but the service quality varies. I've experienced sudden car breakdowns where secondary dealers not only took longer to fix but also lacked proper tools. In the long run, although 4S stores cost more, they can extend warranties for older cars, saving me extra hassle. If opting for secondary dealers just to save money on used cars, it's crucial to inspect the car's condition thoroughly to avoid pitfalls. Driving safety is paramount, so I prioritize 4S stores.

[Alfie]

The main differences between secondary dealers and 4S stores lie in their channels and after-sales support. 4S stores are certified by automotive brands, selling new cars with original factory warranty services; secondary dealers operate more like independent shops, potentially offering lower prices but with less post-purchase support. For instance, during my last price comparison, the 4S store charged more but included full maintenance services, whereas the secondary dealer offered more discounts but only sold cars without repair services. When considering warranty periods, 4S stores hold a significant advantage.