Driving motoring forward

More people than ever are buying and driving cars, and it is people who traditionally did not buy new cars that are now driving cars sales forward.

One of the biggest growth segments for car sales is women. This is also reflected in the take-up of driving licences:

63 per cent of women in the UK held driving licences in 2005, compared with 29 per cent in 1975/76 (Source: National Travel Survey 2006, Department for Transport)

Sue Robinson, director of the RMI National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), a part of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF) commented: ‘The idea of motoring as a male preserve is long gone, and car manufacturers now market cars directly to women drivers. Indeed, some of the most common cars on Britain’s roads have become successful because of their popularity with women. These include everything from superminis to sports cars and 4x4s.’

Robinson believes that prospective buyers will get a good deal when they go car-hunting: ‘The quality of modern cars, the purchasing deals like free insurance, zero per cent finance available from some manufacturers and very attractive prices all add up to a package to satisfy buyers across the spectrum of customer needs. However, it is extremely important to use a reputable dealer for buying either a new or used car.’

When looking for a car, there are a number of things to look out for:

a newly-registered car is sold with at least a full three year manufacturer warranty. But do read the small print. On used vehicles it is the dealer or a third party provider who supplies the warranty, probably between three and 12 months depending on the age and general condition of the car.

when comparing deals use the on-the-road price which manufacturers now advertise. This is made up of the basic ex-works price, value added tax (VAT), number plate, delivery charges, and road fund licence, and first registration fee

Buying a new car should be an enjoyable experience, and in no way intimidating. Robinson explains: ‘When consumers walk into a car showroom, it may occasionally be a little overwhelming. However, the professionalism of the sales staff should be more than enough to boost their confidence.’

Motorists should also consider the following check-list about what they want from their vehicle before and after purchase to make sure you have not overlooked the obvious:

will you be carrying goods or people or both?
diesel, petrol, or alternative fuel?
do you make long or short journeys?
do you have children?
automatic or manual?
small engine for economy or larger engine for power?
two, three, four or five door?
saloon, coupé, sports, estate, roadster, SUV (sports utility vehicle) or MPV (multi-purpose vehicle)?
are you worried about depreciation values?

Since March 2001 the rate of vehicle excise duty has varied depending on the level of C0² within exhaust emissions produced by the car, so it is worth bearing this in mind.

According to Robinson, customisation is everything when it comes to cars: ‘Don’t forget to look into the extras available with the vehicle you favour. Many popular choices include:

multi CD changer
MP3 player
air conditioning
leather interior
alloy wheels
sunroof
satellite navigation
mobile phone hands-free
bluetooth capability

Of course, just buying and driving the car is just the beginning of the journey. Robinson explains: ‘Do remember that your new car will eventually need a service and it is vital, when having a service or any form of work carried out on your car, to use a reputable garage, whether you return to the dealer who sold you the car or use a local independent garage. If the supplying garage is too far away for such jobs, a local RMIF member would be happy to support you with service.

‘A member will be able to advise you on the type of service you need, and will be able to point out potential problem areas before they arise, or become serious. In fact, whether you want to buy or sell a new or used car or motorcycle, service or repair your existing vehicle, find an auction house, or a cherished number plate dealer, the RMIF will be able to help you.

‘If you have a complaint against an RMIF member garage, the RMIF’s National Conciliation Service should be able to help you get redress, if the problem cannot be solved in direct consultation with that member.’

To find a garage that is a member of the RMIF, visit rmif.co.uk and use the ‘Find a Service’ function. You will also find details of RMI members that sell new and used cars or motorcycles, provide vehicle servicing and repair, and sell fuel (petrol).