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Independent used car dealers are increasingly competing with franchised dealers in developing their own used car programmes.
In many cases the programmes match those offered by carmakers, said RAC Warranty.
The programmes 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, it added.
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 car makers upped their game, such as by offering extended used car warranties, competition could escalate.