2016.04.04
B.C. Used Cars takes pride on customer service
By Miki Shioda
B.C. Used Cars has been in the business since 1968 and, as a proof of their success, many Y-plate cars on Okinawa’s roads carry a “B.C” sticker on the back.
Their first shop was a small lot that used to be on the site of Korinza shopping mall. They then moved next to Kadena Gate 2, which is their head office now. They also have a shop on Hwy 58 in Chatan. Just recently they opened a large new garage in Chibana, close to Kadena Gate 3.
The B.C. USED CARS has always a large selection of cars of any type in stock, including mini cars, often called “K-cars” that are distinguished by their yellow number plates. These days many people want to ride “K-cars” because their annual road tax is low and they get a good mileage.
The company motto has always been “Customer First!” and that goes well beyond the normal courteous service and friendliness in the shop. General Manager Akira Agena says, “We always try to come up with new and better ways to serve our customers, and we firmly believe that our relationship does not end when the customers drives away from our lot with his or her new pre-owned vehicle. That’s why we built our new large garage in Chibana.”
Agena explains that as U.S. Military members stay on the island at a minimum of two years, it’s important to be able to provide a good after service. “That only makes business sense, as we want them to come back when they need a new vehicle, and even more important, we like them recommend us to others when they arrive on the island,” Agena says.
One of the specialties at B.C. Used Cars is that they now offer a two-year warranty on the vehicles they sell. The program started in February this year. “This is the first time for any pre-owned cars sales company on Okinawa to offer a two-year warranty, but we are not afraid. That’s a challenge for us to try new things. We see this as a great opportunity for everybody, so I would like people to take advantage of it.”
Agena explains that once a customer selects his or her favorite car, it takes two days to prepare and register the vehicle. They also provide AIU and ACE insurance services. “In addition to registration and insurance, we offer many payment options. In addition to cash, we have interest-free loans for U.S. Military customers. And all transactions are in U.S. dollars,” Agena emphasizes.
The New B.C Used Cars garage is a large facility with a spacious office and customer lounge to relax while the staff fixes the car. There are 12 lifts for the experienced mechanics to work. Currently, the garage is running a JCI inspection campaign with 50% off the labor cost, free oil change and free estimates. They also have free loaner cars depending on availability.