International Motors is launching approved used car schemes for its Subaru and Isuzu operations designed to maintain high levels of customer service and boost dealer profits.

The Subaru Proven and Isuzu Assured programmes, which require “nominal investment” by dealers, will be complemented by a used car stock locator. The online locator will include details and images of around 2,500 cars, updated every 48 hours.

A spokesman said: “Some used car customers, if serviced properly, may return to the dealer to buy a new car in the future.”

Subaru Proven and Isuzu Assured will include “a comprehensive” 12-month warranty, which can be extended. It will be managed by Mondial, which handles the home and roadside assistance for both marques. All makes of used car under six years' old/60,000 miles will be covered.

Dealers will also receive a boost to aftersales profits. All cars sold under the scheme must be returned to the dealership for servicing as a condition of the warranty, helping dealers to retain drivers of older models.

“The scheme has only just been launched, but we have nine to 10 dealers signing up each day,” said the spokesman. “We anticipate 99.9% of our dealer network will sign.”

The online used car stock locator service enables consumers to access a national database or a dealer specific website. The spokesman added: “The scheme is half way there, but we think customers still prefer to test drive the vehicle and purchase it at the dealership.”