The end of the era of used cars: Russians massively refuse used cars

Russian motorists are changing their habits: the demand for used cars of foreign brands is steadily falling. As explained by car expert and emergency driving specialist Yegor Vasiliev, behind the apparent initial benefit hides a lot of serious pitfalls. The main reasons for disappointment are the acute shortage of original components, sky-high service costs and, of course, the complete absence of a factory warranty.

Buying a car imported under alternative schemes or that has previously changed several owners often turns into a financial trap. The expert warns that the cost of repairing key components in the first year of operation can be so significant that the total cost of ownership will approach the price of a new car. All risks and costs fall solely on the shoulders of the buyer.

Against the backdrop of these difficulties, official sales channels are rapidly regaining lost positions. Customers are increasingly choosing predictability, service and reliability. An excellent and affordable alternative are localized Chinese models (worth from 2.5 million rubles) and Lada cars, the manufacturer of which is actively expanding the model line, offering modern options.

The portrait of the car owner also changes. At the forefront are not “classic European controllability”, but modern design, rich multimedia equipment and, most importantly, peace of mind due to warranty service. Rising costs for imported parts are fuelling interest in domestically assembled machines. In the mass segment, Chinese brands and the domestic automotive industry confidently squeeze the usual European brands, writes Pravda.Ru.