Low dealer satisfaction may lead customers to used cars in New York

Dissatisfaction with the financing options and availability at new car dealerships for leasing and purchasing vehicles may turn potential buyers to used cars in New York.

A recent analysis by J.D. Power and Associates finds that buyers have been increasingly unhappy with the “captive” financing wings of several automakers, with satisfaction ratings dropping 5-10 percent in 2008.

It’s not the rates that make up a large portion of a consumer’s experience, but rather the services provided by financiers that help to explain the reduction in buyers’ happiness with the experience, the marketing firm found.

Some of the lowest ranked firms include GMAC and Chrysler‘s captive financing wing, with General Motors receiving the equivalent of a C grade and Chrysler a D based on their ability to offer loans for new cars.

“Current economic conditions have created something of a ‘perfect storm,’ as declines in new-vehicle sales, tightened lending and reduced inventory funds have combined to put extreme stress on dealer business,” said David Lo, J.D. Power and Associates financial services director.