Digital search dominates how customers find their next car, but other areas are still important, according to new research by MotoNovo Finance.

The company surveyed over 6,000 used car buyers in September and while 56% said digital means where the main way they find used cars, 16% said driving past the dealership forecourt was the second most popular, followed by recommendations from a friend or family.

Mark Standish, MotoNovo chief executive, said: “At MotoNovo Finance we continue to lead the call to dealers to develop their online and lifetime CRM activities.

“It is clear that the showroom and forecourt experience have a real role to play as well. It seems this total ‘holistic’ support is what is required to embrace the varying needs of a used car buying audience that want information, reassurance and an engaging and enjoyable buying experience.”

MotoNovo Finance September 2015 used car buyer research: