Thursday 31 March 2016

Vehicle Service Contracts Remain a Popular Choice Thanks To Their Flexibility

Having a vehicle service contract (VSC) gives you added peace of mind while taking away the risk of an expensive and unexpected repair bill. But as vehicle design starts to evolve even further, the appeal of a VSC continues to change as well. 

More dealerships are finding that consumers are less worried about mechanical failure and are more focused on in-vehicle technology. That’s not to say that there’s not a need for component coverage on items such as the transmission and engine — far from it. It’s just that as cars are being built with more electronics and connectivity features, items like navigation systems and Bluetooth technology are becoming more of a focus for customers interested in a VSC.    

In a 2014 study by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), in-vehicle technology was cited as an important factor when purchasing a new vehicle for more than half (59 percent) of U.S. drivers. The same study also found that two in five consumers (42 percent) stated that they intended to buy an in-vehicle technology device or accessory within a year.

Fast forwarding to the present day, another study was just released that helps provide even further insight into VSC/automotive purchasing habits. According to a recent DealerRater survey question supplied by Automotive News, 30 percent of consumers said that they bought a service contract on their most recent vehicle purchase. Taking a deeper dive, here are some additional findings from the survey:

• 26 percent of new-vehicle buyers purchased service contracts
• 40 percent of used-vehicle buyers purchased service contracts
• 33 percent of consumers who visited a dealership for service bought a service contract
• 21 percent of all respondents purchased GAP protection, which was the next best-selling F&I product
• 12 percent or less of all respondents purchased F&I products such as tire and wheel, prepaid maintenance, paint protection and coverage for alarm systems

Advanced features and safety systems cost more to replace if they malfunction, so a VSC makes good sense if your vehicle features the latest state-of-the-art technology. And even if it doesn’t, a service contract is still a great option for covering the major components of your vehicle. Plus, a VSC gives your vehicle greater resale value. If you plan on selling your car or truck after a few years, keep in mind that you can get a higher price for it if it’s backed by a VSC.

So, yes, car design has evolved and will continue to do so. But on the flipside, so have VSCs. Service plans have become more flexible, which allows every consumer to find the perfect fit for their budget and the way they drive. And this key advantage in how VSCs are designed allows consumers to stay out of the red and on the road a lot longer.