More customers are using mobile phones to shop for a new vehicle, a study from J.D. Power and Associates reports. According to the survey, smartphones are becoming a major source of information for prospective car buyers, with more than half of respondents claiming they use mobile devices for vehicle pricing, model information and reviews or ratings.
"As shoppers increasingly use their mobile device to gather information during the shopping process and even at the point of purchase, the importance and value of mobile websites to both manufacturers and shoppers alike grow exponentially," said Arianne Walker, a senior director at J.D. Power and Associates.
More users are also using computers, tablets and other digital means to research and gather information. As more companies revamp mobile websites and make changes to ease this process for users, the number of customers taking part in the car-buying process on smartphones should increase.
Mobile devices and apps are also becoming more popular with regard to vehicle maintenance. These programs help drivers find everything from the lowest gas prices in the area to the closest car care facilities. Service centers like Precision Tune Auto Care have produced their own programs, giving drivers a look at the ins and outs of their vehicles, as well as potential issues that need to be checked by a professional.