Navigating Calgary's Car Dealership Landscape

Car dealerships are abundant in Calgary, Alberta, with many of them offering great deals and a wealth of models. But how do you know which dealership is right for you? This guide will help you navigate the maze of car dealerships in Calgary and what to look for when deciding.

Types of Car Dealerships in Calgary

A car dealership can be any business that sells new cars, used cars, and other automobiles to the public. Most people think of dealerships as large chain stores. However, the “Dollarama” for car dealerships does not exist, Calgary’s car marketplace is actually comprised of a variety of auto dealers.

1. Franchised dealerships: They have affiliations and contracts with automakers and provide trade-ins. A franchise dealership’s name includes the car maker’s brand name.
2. Independent dealerships: Their cars don’t come directly from the manufacturer but from various sources, e.g., private sellers, auctioneers, and trade-ins. 
3. New car dealerships: They sell brand-new models at the retail level and may have an agreement with a car manufacturer or its subsidiary.
4. Used car dealerships: These are auto dealers that sell pre-owned cars and sometimes spare parts alongside car maintenance services.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dealership

Albertans take pride in their automobiles. They like cars, but it can be challenging to find the perfect deal. When buying new or used cars, various aspects of the auto dealer can influence your decision.

Reputation
What is the credibility of the dealer? How long have they been in the industry, and what do past customers say about them?

Selection of Vehicles
You want to work with a dealer who offers a broad range of vehicle brands, makes, and models. If their lot has a high volume of inventory with quick turnover, you will have more options.

Price Range
Check the price points for the cars. Shop around and research to know how much your preferred model should cost. If it’s overpriced, pass the dealership and seek a vehicle elsewhere.

Financing Options
How will you pay for the vehicle? Does the dealership offer bad credit car financing or target customers with prime credit scores?

Customer Service
Consider how the dealer responds to customers and whether you would want to work with them in the future. A good dealer engages their clients with helpful information and does not push sales to make a profit.

Additional Tips 

Although car shopping doesn’t have to be a stressful experience, that’s never stopped anyone from using it as an excuse for frustration. Whether you are experienced and looking for a specific type of dealership or have never owned a vehicle before, do this to avoid regrets:

• Conduct in-depth research about a dealership before booking your first appointment with their office
• Compare and contrast prices from different dealers and car features
• Don’t sign an auto loan agreement before test-driving your new car
• Always negotiate for a better interest rate, warranty, and other perks
• Read and understand the contract before putting in a signature

Make an Informed Choice Today About Car Dealerships

When determining the best car dealership in Calgary, consider their reliability and customer service. Their vehicle selection can tell a lot about their experience in the industry. And when you are ready to purchase a new or used car in Calgary, examine the prices and don’t hesitate to negotiate with the dealer. Take the above points as the primary factors to watch out for before working with any car dealership.