Pep Boys Introduces Used Vehicle Certification and Evaluation Program
10 July 2000
New Vehicle Evaluation Services Support the $336 Billion Used Vehicle Market
PHILADELPHIA - Pep Boys , the nation's leading full service automotive aftermarket chain, today unveiled a new all-brands used Vehicle Evaluation Services program designed to support the buying and selling of used cars, trucks, vans and SUVs - a $336 billion industry.Pep Boys' unique brand of certification offers quality and value assurances to both buyers and sellers of all makes and models of used vehicles. Buyers of a Pep Boys-evaluated automobile will know that the vehicle is both mechanically and operationally sound, and sellers will have the assurance that Pep Boys stands behind the vehicle by offering a powertrain service contract and a roadside assistance plan to the new owner, which will help turn the "asking price" into the "selling price."
"Until now, there has been no thorough certification program available to individuals who wish to buy or sell a vehicle privately," said Bruce Chidsey, vice president of service operations for Pep Boys. "Industry studies show that certified vehicles sell 50 percent faster than uncertified ones. By introducing these services, Pep Boys hopes to help both buyers and sellers get the most out of their vehicle."
In 1999, more than 40 million used vehicles were sold in the United States, 10 million of which were sold privately. The vast majority of these vehicles were not certified, giving neither potential buyers or sellers any reassurance of the vehicle's condition.
With Pep Boys Vehicle Evaluation Services, vehicles qualify for three levels of evaluation and certification: Pep Boys Certified Gold, Pep Boys Quality Checked Plus, and Pep Boys Quality Check. All three services currently are available in 26 states.
Pep Boys Quality Check service starts with a 200-point vehicle inspection that provides a complete mechanical and cosmetic status report. Everything from seat belts and headlights to carpet and trunk are thoroughly checked. Under-the-hood, wheels-off and under-the-vehicle inspections are also made.
Following the inspection, the customer is given a comprehensive report detailing all items checked, their visual appearance and performance as compared to proper mechanical performance standards, as defined by industry specifications.
To qualify for the intermediate Pep Boys Quality Checked Plus program, vehicles must have less than 100,000 miles and be less than 12 model years old.
After meeting other mechanical requirements, vehicles will receive a detailed condition report; a 60-day, 2,000-mile powertrain service contract for the seller; a marketing kit to help sell the vehicle; a 60-day, 2,000-mile powertrain warranty for the buyer; a 12-month roadside assistance plan for the buyer; and future Pep Boys discounts.
Pep Boys Certified Gold vehicles must have less than 75,000 miles and be less than six model years old.
After meeting other mechanical and cosmetic requirements, vehicles receive a detailed condition report; 90-day, 3,000-mile powertrain service contract for the buyer; a 60-day, 2,000-miles powertrain warranty for the seller; a 12-month roadside assistance plan for the buyer; a marketing kit and future Pep Boys discounts.
Costs for Pep Boys new line of services are $89.99 for Pep Boys Quality Check, $189.99 for Pep Boys Quality Checked Plus, and $229.99 for Pep Boys Certified Gold. The two highest levels of service include limited warranties for both the buyer and seller, plus roadside assistance for the vehicle's new owner.
Pep Boys, founded in 1921, has more than 660 locations in 37 states and Puerto Rico. Along with its vehicle repair and maintenance capabilities, the company also serves the commercial auto parts delivery market.
