Sterling Cars: Your Guide to Quality Used Vehicles

When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, finding a dealership that combines experience, reliability, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction is paramount. Sterling Cars, a family-run business based in West Yorkshire, has been a cornerstone of the automotive sales industry since 1982. Over the past three decades, they have cultivated a reputation as one of the North's most trusted and dependable independent car sales groups. Their ethos is built on honesty and friendliness, offering expert advice and fostering long-standing relationships with their clientele. This dedication to quality service and customer care makes Sterling Cars a standout choice for anyone seeking their next vehicle.

A Diverse Range of New and Used Vehicles

Sterling Cars boasts an impressive and diverse selection of vehicles, catering to a wide array of needs and preferences. Whether you're in the market for a spacious family car, a robust commercial vehicle, or a sleek sports model, Sterling has something to suit every lifestyle and budget. They offer a comprehensive range of models from all major manufacturers, ensuring that customers have ample choice. Specialising in new, high-end models from prestigious brands such as BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, Sterling's team possesses in-depth knowledge of each brand. This expertise allows them to provide customers with detailed information and tailored advice, assisting them in making an informed decision.

Beyond new vehicles, Sterling Cars also excels in offering Approved Used cars of the highest calibre. Each used vehicle undergoes rigorous checks and is supplied with a warranty, providing peace of mind to buyers. Sterling maintains a strict policy of never sourcing vehicles from auctions, ensuring that only the finest used cars make it to their forecourt. Their knowledgeable team is on hand to guide customers through the Approved Used range, helping them secure a fantastic deal. The emphasis on quality and transparency in their used car offerings further solidifies Sterling's commitment to customer trust.

Fleet Discounts and Flexible Finance Options

Sterling Cars understands the diverse needs of the market and extends its services to both business and personal customers through attractive fleet discounts on cars and vans. This service is designed to be straightforward, with no hidden fees or charges, and offers the convenience of nationwide delivery. For individuals and businesses alike, Sterling provides competitive finance and purchase deals on both new and used cars. They offer flexibility to accommodate various budgets, making vehicle ownership more accessible. This commitment to financial flexibility ensures that customers can find a payment plan that works for them, further enhancing the overall purchasing experience.

Comprehensive Aftersales and Bodyshop Services

The Sterling Motors experience doesn't end at the point of sale. They offer a complete suite of aftersales services under one roof, including an in-house bodyshop. Whether you're looking to personalise your new vehicle with customisations or need to replace worn tyres on your current car, Sterling's skilled technicians are equipped to handle a wide range of requirements. This integrated approach to vehicle care means that customers can rely on Sterling for ongoing maintenance and enhancement needs, ensuring their vehicle remains in optimal condition.

Understanding Your Purchase: Retail, Trade, or Spares

Sterling Cars operates with a clear understanding of different buyer statuses, ensuring that all transactions are legally sound and transparent. When purchasing a vehicle, customers will confirm their status, which can be:

• Retail Purchase: For individuals buying a car for their personal use, with appropriate private insurance in place.
• Trade Sale: For motor dealers purchasing vehicles for onward resale. In these cases, the full V5 document is provided where available.
• For Spares or Repairs: For vehicles that do not meet the standards set by the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and are therefore unfit for use on public roads. Such vehicles must be transported away.

It is crucial for buyers to accurately declare their status, as this dictates the applicable legal consumer protections. Sterling ensures that your invoice accurately reflects your buyer classification.

Warranty and Claims Process Explained

Sterling Cars provides a 30-day warranty covering major mechanical engine and gearbox issues on the majority of their retail sales. This warranty is in addition to your statutory consumer rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. For added peace of mind, the initial 31-day warranty can be extended to cover 3, 6, 12, 24, or 36 months at an additional cost. These extensions are subject to the terms and conditions of their external warranty provider and can be arranged within the first 30 days of ownership.

In the event of a warranty claim, if an external warranty provider is involved, customers must contact the warranty company directly, following the instructions provided in their documentation. Sterling's role is limited in these instances, as the claim is handled entirely by the external provider.

For situations where no external warranty was provided, or if there's a suspected breach of the Consumer Rights Act 2015, Sterling will address the issue with due consideration for the Act. This includes factors like fair wear and tear, the description of goods, and public statements made about the vehicle's characteristics. Customers are required to notify Sterling by email at [email protected] within 24 hours of a fault occurring, where possible. Sterling aims to provide a 24-hour response time. It's important to note that Sterling reserves the right to request the vehicle be returned for inspection or repair, with any associated transportation costs borne by the buyer.

Sterling Cars explicitly states that they do not supply a breakdown service. It is strongly recommended that customers arrange their own breakdown cover alongside their insurance policy. Should a vehicle need to be returned for inspection or repair, the responsibility and cost of returning the vehicle lie with the buyer. This underscores the importance of having adequate breakdown recovery provisions.

Important Considerations for Buyers

Sterling Cars are transparent about selling vehicles that may have higher mileage and are not always perfect. The pricing will always reflect the vehicle's condition. Buyers should anticipate potential expenditure on certain items that are subject to wear and tear, such as window mechanisms, locks, bodywork components, suspension, and brake parts. Consumable parts like ball joints and bushes have a finite lifespan and will not last the entire life of the vehicle. Sterling endeavours to provide a checklist of items they inspect, but this is not exhaustive, and buyers are encouraged to inspect vehicles thoroughly and bring a mechanic if they feel unqualified.

Timing belt replacement is a critical consideration. If a vehicle is fitted with a timing belt (as opposed to a chain) and proof of recent renewal according to manufacturer intervals is not provided, the buyer is responsible for having it replaced within the first 31 days of ownership. Failure to do so may prejudice their position in the event of a timing belt failure claim.

Sterling Cars will not accept claims related to cosmetic issues, bodywork, or wear and tear parts like tyres and brakes. Customers are advised to inspect the cosmetic condition of the vehicle thoroughly before completing the transaction and to bring any issues to their attention beforehand.

Any discounts applied to a vehicle will be recorded on the invoice and will be considered as an excess in the event of any claim. This means the discount amount may be deducted from any potential claim payout.

Courtesy Cars and Delivery Terms

Due to insurance and availability constraints, Sterling Cars is unable to provide courtesy cars as standard. If a courtesy car is provided, it is at the manager's discretion and requires the recipient to provide proof of suitable insurance cover for its use. Without this proof, an insurance fee of £65, valid for up to five working days, will apply. Extended use of a courtesy car will necessitate a repeat of this insurance fee.

Vehicles being delivered are subject to a non-refundable delivery charge. This charge may be included in the total vehicle cost but will be quoted separately and must be paid before the vehicle is released. Customers have the right to test drive and inspect the vehicle upon delivery and can reject it. However, the delivery fee remains non-refundable regardless of acceptance or rejection. Once delivery is accepted and signed for, the buyer becomes responsible for any return carriage costs should the sale subsequently need to be refunded.

Aftersales Protocols: Ensuring Efficient Resolution

In the unfortunate event of a mechanical issue, Sterling Cars has a clear protocol to ensure efficient handling of customer queries. Customers should contact Mike at Aftersales on 07890 600452 within 24 hours of the fault occurring. A response is typically received on the same day. If Mike is unavailable, Jason can be contacted on 07971 860667, preferably via WhatsApp, which provides a time-stamped log and clearer communication.

Customers are strongly advised not to visit the dealership unannounced for aftersales queries. Staff on-site may not have the authority or means to address enquiries without prior arrangement, as vehicles often need to be booked into workshops for diagnostics. Any repair centre used must have prior authorisation from Sterling Cars via text or written record for Sterling to be liable for any repair costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Sterling Cars provide a breakdown service?

No, Sterling Cars explicitly states that they do not provide a breakdown service and recommend that customers arrange their own breakdown cover.

What warranty is provided with Sterling Cars vehicles?

A 30-day warranty covering major mechanical engine and gearbox issues is provided on most retail sales. This can be extended for longer periods at an additional cost.

Can I return a vehicle if I'm not satisfied after delivery?

You have the right to inspect and reject a vehicle at the point of delivery. However, if you accept delivery and later need to refund the sale, you will be responsible for the return carriage costs.

What should I do if I have a problem with my vehicle after purchase?

Contact Mike at Aftersales on 07890 600452 within 24 hours of the fault occurring. If you cannot reach him, contact Jason on 07971 860667, preferably via WhatsApp.

Are cosmetic issues covered by the warranty?

No, Sterling Cars will not accept claims related to cosmetic items, bodywork, or wear and tear parts such as tyres and brakes.

Sterling Cars, with its long-standing history and commitment to customer service, offers a comprehensive and trustworthy solution for your next vehicle purchase. Their dedication to quality, transparency, and aftersales support makes them a leading choice in the automotive market.

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