Although the high street is seeing a decline, thanks largely to the rise of buying through ecommerce sites, car dealerships are the one business that will always see high levels of footfall in-branch rather than online.

This is mostly because getting a new car is something that needs to be done in person. It is the buying experience that requires the asking of questions, visual checks and test drives before any purchase can be made.

But what makes a good car dealership? Whether you’re buying a new company car, or you need a new van for your business, it’s important to know what a decent dealer looks like before you part with your cash. If you’re searching for a new car, here’s a look at the things your dealership should have.

Reputation

Whether you choose a well-established dealership or a newer car dealer, it's essential to find one with a solid reputation, such as East Coast Toyota.

More established dealers will have regular customers who have been returning year after year and a comprehensive after-sales service that others will be able to tell you about, while new ones will be trying to forge a path in the industry and will be hoping you’ll come back.

Whichever you choose, be sure to go with one with a good reputation. While you’re more likely to find a wealth of experience at the older dealers, the newer ones could have a skilled, qualified team that have delivered first-class service for people you know.

Get the opinion of those who have been there before to get an idea of what’s on offer.

Stock

Successful car dealerships will constantly update their stock with new models that deliver contemporary tech as well as improving the older models. As a car buyer, you will want a vehicle that ticks all the boxes, especially cars for Uber. From fuel economy to driver comfort features, seek out a dealer that has a broad selection of innovative motors to choose from.

Checks

If you’re looking for a high-quality used car, your dealer will need to run all the relevant checks to ensure there are no issues, such as outstanding payments or repairs that need to be carried out before you make your purchase.

Companies such as Cap HPI will provide these checks, so look out for documentation from these organisations and ask the sales team who they use and what sort of checks they run.

Services

What services are on offer at the dealership? Is there an after-sales centre? Is there a repairs section where you can return your car to should something go wrong? The car you choose should ideally run for a few years, but a good dealership will have a range of services on-site or nearby that you can access as a customer.

Whichever car dealership you eventually settle for, be sure to look out for one that provides you with a first-class service from start to finish and beyond.