“Thanks to a surge in customer demand, we’ve completely run out of space! Thankfully, now that we’ve received planning permission, we can begin work to rebuild the showroom. It’s exciting because the new space will allow us to continue to invest in the customer experience at cartime. We want to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the buying process to a level never-before-seen within a used car dealership.”

“It’s not just about shopping – our customers often purchase two- or three-year warranties from cartime, so we want to create a nice place to wait – whether you’re buying a car or just getting yours serviced. That’s why we’ve worked with Fletcher Smith Architects to focus on fun features and luxury within the design.”

Two of cartime’s main selling points have always been the choice and the quality of the cars we have on offer. The new preparation centre will mean more mechanics, more technicians and better equipment. This will allow us to process more cars to a more exacting standard, which will ultimately lead to even higher customer satisfaction rates.

While the new car market is currently strong, we expect that to level off in 2016. The supply of late-model used cars is only going to increase and used-car sales will receive even more of a boost, helped by the availability of finance. Customers also find that when buying used on a dealer-arranged finance plan, they can afford a much higher standard of car. The huge choice in cars and deals is making used models more attractive to buyers than ever before.

“Buying a car is an enjoyable experience – and it becomes even more so when you build a rapport with the person you’re buying from. Unfortunately, car salespersons have not always been known for their friendly, honest demeanour. cartime as a company is all about changing that – by offering our customers a relaxed, open environment in which they can shop for their next model. It really is a new way to buy a used car.”

When we were asked to donate the prize, we happily obliged because the Heartless Hotline competition sounded like an interesting concept. But after hearing Jane’s story, we realised it was so much more than just a giveaway competition. Knowing that the car is going to help Jane and her family out in such a big way really does mean a lot to everyone here at cartime. We’re glad we could help.

I’m really pleased with the car. It’s really cute and I’m really looking forward to taking my dad for a spin in it. Thanks again to cartime, Key103 and Dave of course. It was getting really difficult taking kids to school and my parents to their hospital appointments since giving my old car back, so winning the Yaris has been a lifesaver.

With fuel economy the hot topic on every motorist’s mind, it seems car depreciation costs might well be getting forgotten. As fuel is generally considered to be the biggest everyday motoring expense, many of those considering buying brand new might be doing so to get the best possible savings from fuel economy. Car depreciation can actually cost the typical motorist up to three times as much as they would normally spend at the pumps – so it really is depreciation that’s the true cash-burner.

Depreciation will slow considerably as a vehicle’s age increases, so buyers might find that a nearly new car (one to two years old) is much better value than a brand new one. When the new 16-plate comes onto the market, many will race to buy a new car, justifying the inflated price with the fantastic fuel economy that these cars often promise. However, these savings are massively outweighed by the costs of vehicle depreciation. Although many drivers are aware of depreciation in general, the true statistics often come as a shock.

Generally, it’s 4x4s and SUVs that hold their value better than other models. Electric vehicles are the worst by a long shot – and it’s typically these that people choose to buy to save money on fuel. Don’t ever bother buying brand new. Yes, your number-plate might look great, but in 6 months’ time it’ll be yesterday’s news – and you’ll be seriously out of pocket.

Last year was a fantastic year for cartime and the industry as a whole, so it’s great to get 2016 off to a flying start with not one but three nominations at the AM Awards. These are some of the most prestigious and highly regarded awards in the automotive calendar and we’re up against some very respected dealerships so it’s an absolute honour to be nominated

cartime is all about offering our customers a new way to buy a used car, and for us this means giving something back. It’s the little things, like offering the Ferrari as a free courtesy car, that make cartime a fun and exciting company to deal with, and put us a cut above the rest in terms of outstanding customer service. For the people of Bury and beyond, come down to the showroom and find out for yourselves. You never know you might get a chance to take the Ferrari for a spin!

The fact that child poverty is still an issue, not only in Greater Manchester but across the UK, is shocking. When we heard about this fantastic cause, we jumped at the chance to register cartime HQ as a present drop-off point and do our bit. That’s why we’re also donating an extra £50 for every car sold in December, so we’re encouraging our customers to pop down to the showroom with any extra presents and help us spread the Christmas cheer

Since I founded cartime in 2012, my goal has always been to offer people a new way to buy a used car. It’s an honour to be recognised with a Made in Bury Business Award, as these awards have contributed a lot to the local business community in the last three years. I’m really proud of the whole team at cartime and it’s been a great year so far – so well done to them all for another great achievement. It’s also great to be able to say we offer an ‘award-winning’ new way to buy a used car!

Our aim with the new collection centre is to enhance the buying experience to a level never-before-seen within a used car dealership. It will provide customers with a relaxed and enjoyable way for them to pick up their car once it is ready for collection. As a Bury native I am also extremely proud to be able to invest in the local economy.