The NFDA’s Consumer Attitude survey found that 92% of respondents were satisfied with franchised dealers while only 22% purchased from an independent dealer.
9% selected a car supermarket for their current vehicle while 8% selected ‘privately advertised’.
Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of NFDA, said: “It is positive to see that overall satisfaction with franchised dealers remains high and that many consumers rely on the trusted expertise and knowledge of dealerships when purchasing their vehicles.
“It is also important to note that many younger consumers are utilising online channels highlighting the evolving landscape of our sector and how dealerships are effectively adapting to this transition.”
17-25, 26-35, and 36-45, fewer than 40% of respondents cited a ‘main (franchised) dealer’ while 50-60% of respondents in the age groups of 56-65 and 66-75 purchased from a ‘main (franchised) dealer’, and 63% of those aged 76+ did the same.
When respondents were asked why they chose an alternative to a ‘main (franchised) dealer’ for their current vehicle, cost was a significant factor.
56% said the main dealer was too expensive to buy a car and to save money. 13% said they trust the person they are buying from.