According to Ed Gassner, CEO, AA Autobay, the recent entry of ABSA into the market in association with its accredited dealers underlines the need for a safe trading environment for consumers, as well as the need for them to obtain the best possible value from the deal. “We welcome ABSA’s entry into this market, something that really emphasises the need for a service that enables both buyers and sellers of second hand cars to find a deal that is mutually beneficial.
“Buyers and sellers are exposed to so many dangers and risks when embarking on the journey to buy or sell a used car. From the potential for hijacking and theft to bad cheques, and faulty or stolen vehicles, consumers have to balance these risks with getting a better deal,” says Gassner.
“And when you consider that in the current market vehicle owners are in some cases being offered up to 30 percent less than the book value by dealers, you’ll understand the motivation to sell privately.”
AA Autobay negates these risks by offering a secure, convenient environment for both buyers and sellers of privately owned cars and allows buyers to shop via their computers.
“For sellers, AA Autobay facilitates safe test drives, performs credit checks on potential buyers, handles all the paperwork, and guarantees payment. The main benefit for buyers is that each car is checked by the AA Test & Drive. This comprehensive 101 multi-point check includes a roadworthy test.
Highlighting the company’s faith in the AA check, AA Autobay offers an AA Mechanical Breakdown Warranty on cars purchased that are 8 years old or younger. Additional 24 month warranties are also offered and customers have a choice of a basic-warranty or a prestige-warranty option. The company also offers AA Service Plan options for selected vehicles.
“We also ensure that the cars on sale are not stolen or rebuilt following a major accident. In this way buyers are assured of the quality and reliability of the vehicle,” says Gassner.
“AA Autobay does charge both the buyer and seller of the vehicle a 2,5 percent facilitation fee. However, that is the extent of it and there are no hidden costs or mark-ups in the process. We also do not force buyers to pay on-the-road fees, it is an optional service and the service fee is minimal.”
Buyers and sellers that use AA Autobay are realising a minimum of 7 to 10 percent more value on their vehicles.
Gassner concludes that with all the benefits offered by the company, the AA Autobay website is becoming the destination of choice for buyers and sellers of privately owned vehicles. “We currently have over three thousand cars listed on the website from sellers nationwide with almost 140,000 vehicle searches taking place per month.
“In addition, we offer a host of finance and insurance options through AA Finance and AA Insurance respectively, which can be customised according to the consumer’s specific requirements. Through our AA Licence and Registration service we also offer annual license renewal, change of ownership and registration of vehicles.”
