This new period of lockdown will be familiar to those of us who experienced the restrictions during the first nationwide lockdown that began in March last year.
Like other areas of retailing, vehicle sales have been classified as ‘non-essential’ in terms of being able to remain physically open, therefore showrooms have had to close their doors. However, it’s still possible to purchase a new or used car, but not in the traditional way, with test drives and face-to-face meetings being out of the question.
Luckily, last year’s various levels of lockdown and tighter restrictions enabled dealers to gain experience of operating in difficult non customer-facing conditions. The vast majority of dealers have adapted well to the limitations of lockdown by offering a variety of services including online purchasing, Click and Collect, home deliveries and video walkthroughs.
Can I take a test drive?
Due to current lockdown restrictions, test drives cannot be undertaken, and showroom viewings are not currently possible. But many dealers have tried to combat this by offering video walkthroughs of cars. For dealers that have sales staff working from home, you can still get as much information about the car as possible, without physically getting behind the wheel.
Can I still purchase a car?
Sales are now only performed online or by picking up the phone and speaking to a member of a dealership’s sales team.
Understandably, you may be asked to make payment for the car in full or at least a deposit in advance of delivery or collection of the car. Some dealers are also offering money-back guarantees but we’d advise checking with your dealer before making any final decisions.
Once payment has been received for your new vehicle, and necessary arrangements are in place, it’s possible to collect your car from most dealerships through a Click and Collect service or requesting a home delivery. Many dealers have arranged for safe areas in their forecourts to offer handovers. We would ask that you consider if collecting your car is an essential reason for travelling during this time and take precautions when doing so, like going by yourself.
Also, several manufacturers and dealers now enable you to buy your car directly from them, with the vehicle being delivered to you via their nearest franchised dealership.
Can I buy or sell a car privately?
With current government guidelines in place under the instruction of stay at home and only travel when completely necessary, any travel related to buying a car should be for essential reasons only. You should also follow travel restrictions permitted within your local area.
Although rules about private car sales haven’t been made clear, it would be difficult to conduct viewings of your car without breaking rules. You can of course still place your advert, but physical viewings of the car should only be carried out when restrictions are lifted and it is safe to do so.
Car maintenance and repairs
Under current government guidelines car maintenance such as MOTs, servicing and repairs are classed as essential business so your local garage or dealer should be open to carry out these services. They will be conducting these under social distancing and safety guidelines.
Remember you can continue your car buying journey at Exchange and Mart and s1cars by browsing our huge range of used car deals from local, trusted dealers. You can also browse our car reviews and check out our blog for plenty of car buying advice and motoring news.
