WeBuyCars promises more user-friendly reports from own vehicle inspector as it ditches Dekra

WeBuyCars (WBC) has “ended its ties” with Dekra Automotive, the company it previously used to provide vehicle condition reports to prospective buyers.

Instead, the group will provide reports from its own new subsidiary, called Inspectify.

Stephen Grootes asks WBC deputy CEO Wynand Beukes about the decision in view of consumers possibly placing more trust in an independent assessment from a third party.

Noting that Dekra's vehicle condition reports are very technical, Beukes says WeBuyCars wanted to provide information that's easier to understand for the average consumer.

Referring to a group visit to the US last year, he says they saw how international industry players provide their own internal service, as do some other big dealerships locally as well.

"We took over the development of the assessment itself... Especially for first time buyers, this is a big financial decision to make and you need to understand the condition of the vehicle. It is still second-hand, and from a trust and transparency perspective we are just there to serve the consumer and make sure that they understand what they're buying before they make that purchasing decision."

On its website, WBC describes Inspectify as "South Africa’s next-generation vehicle inspection company", designed specifically for local conditions.

It's not about independence, says Beukes, but a case of the quality of the report that is provided.

If they produce a high-quality report that provides accurate information the consumer can trust, he says, independence is not going to be an issue going forward.

Beukes also notes that WBC will still be using Dekra's services to get the roadworthy certificates required in terms of the law before a car can be licensed.

Scroll up to the audio player to hear more about the WeBuyCars decision