What should customers compare first when choosing car dealerships?

Start with purpose and total cost of ownership, not just the sticker price. Compare price transparency, warranty terms, after-sales support, and the dealership's service network, then judge the quality of the test-drive experience. For families, prioritize space, safety ratings, and running costs; for value-led buyers, focus on long-term ownership costs and clear finance options. This usually narrows the field to only the strongest matches; the next step is to shortlist dealers who offer transparent pricing, easy test drives, and solid after-sales care, then book a visit to compare the strongest options in person.