Preventive maintenance on used vehicles: cost vs risk, for dealerships

1. What is preventive maintenance and why is it key in VO

Preventive maintenance involves checking and preparing vehicles before their sale to avoid mechanical problems, improve their presentation, and ensure a satisfactory experience for the customer.

1.1 Difference between corrective and preventive maintenance

• Corrective: action is taken when there is already a breakdown.

• Preventive: potential failures are anticipated with checks and adjustments before they cause serious problems.

• Example: changing the timing belt as a precaution can prevent a break that affects the engine.

1.2 Direct impact on stock quality

• Reduces claims and returns

• Improves customer confidence

• Adds value to the VO without significantly modifying the price

• Helps to accelerate the turnover of stock by conveying security

2. Real risks of not doing preventive maintenance

2.1 Returns due to breakdowns

• A faulty battery or worn brakes can cause claims.

• The customer feels deceived and often requests a return or urgent repair.

2.2 Bad reviews

• A car that has issues a few days after purchase generates frustration and criticism on Google or social media.

• These opinions damage the dealership's image and discourage other buyers.

2.3 Hidden costs

• Warranty repairs

• Post-sales team management time

• Delays in the delivery of other VOs

• Distrust in future sales

3. Cost of preventive maintenance vs. assumed risk

3.1 Review vs. breakdown

An average review can cost between 80 and 150 €. A post-sale breakdown can cost from 300 € up to several thousand.

3.2 Economic comparison

3.3 What is worth more: preventing or repairing?

• Preventing: low costs, positive image, trust.

• Repairing: impact on margin, reputation, and time.

4. What does good preventive maintenance for VO include?

4.1 Mechanical maintenance

• Oil and filter change

• Check brakes, steering, and suspension

• Tire levels and condition

• OBD diagnosis and errors

4.2 Aesthetic maintenance

• Professional interior and exterior cleaning

• Repair of visible defects

• Removal of odors, marks, or wear

4.3 Documentation

• Available review report

• Written warranty (if applicable)

• Visual or digital certification of the VO's condition

5. Preventive maintenance checklist for VO dealerships

• [ ] Oil and filter change

• [ ] Complete brake check

• [ ] Checking lights, levels, and tires

• [ ] OBD scanning of electronic errors

• [ ] Professional interior and exterior cleaning

• [ ] Printed or digital review report

• [ ] Mechanical condition certification (optional)

6. How to use maintenance as a sales advantage

6.1 Visibility in the car's specifications

• Add "Mechanically reviewed" or "Includes maintenance report"

• Use a visual icon or seal that highlights this benefit

6.2 Perceived value

• The customer interprets the review as a guarantee of quality

• Increases the likelihood of closing the sale without mechanical objections

6.3 Differentiation

• Many dealerships do not display previous mechanical information

• Including this positions you as a professional and transparent business

7. Dealcar and the control of preventive maintenance

• Accessible digital record for each car in stock

• Alerts by vehicle type or accumulated mileage

• Viewing the history in the car's specs

• Improves conversion by showing trust and traceability

8. FAQs

How much does basic preventive maintenance cost?

Between 80 and 150 € depending on the model and level of review.

Is it mandatory to sell a VO?

No, but it is highly recommended if you want to avoid legal or image problems.

What happens if I sell a car with an undetected breakdown?

You may face returns, warranty repairs, or loss of customer trust.

How to present it to the customer?

Include a review sheet, certificate, or highlight "Reviewed vehicle" in the specifications.

9. Conclusion: an intelligent cost that protects your business

Preventive maintenance is not an expense; it is an investment that avoids returns, improves customer satisfaction, and increases the likelihood of closing a quick sale. Investing 100 euros in reviewing a VO can save you thousands and many complications.

And with tools like Dealcar, keeping that control is easier and more profitable than ever.