Non-franchise dealers are increasingly working to compete and develop their own used car propositions which try to match car manufacturer used car programmes, reports RAC Warranty.

The company says that these dealers are gradually developing packages around the used car sale that provides a high degree of reassurance to the buyer.

This may include an independent inspection of the car, a highly specified warranty, a service plan and even an option to exchange the car within a specified time period.

Ian Simpson, sales and marketing director, said: “The used car sale of 2011 is all about confidence. The majority of buyers remain worried about the potential effects of the difficult economic conditions on their job and general standard of living.

“When they buy a car, they are looking for a vehicle that they like but also want a package around the vehicle that is designed to create a feeling of confidence along with a high degree of insulation against unexpected costs. That’s why independent dealers are increasingly working to develop a complete used car proposition.”

Simpson added that these packages matched manufacturer approved used car programmes in many respects but that, as carmakers upped their game, such as by offering extended used car warranties, there could be a process of escalation.

He said: “It is possible for a non-franchise dealer to put together a ‘peace of mind’ package around a used car that matches some of the traditional manufacturer programmes. However, if we are entering a period when car makers start to enhance their used car offering, then it may be that independent retailers find it very difficult to match them in the medium term.”