South Coast Jap Autos (“we”, “us”, “our”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data.

This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your information when you use our website or contact us.

We act as a “data controller” under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

 

No Online Payments

Please note that this website is for enquiry and information purposes only. We do not process payments, deposits, or complete vehicle purchases through this website. All transactions are carried out directly with South Coast Jap Autos through offline communication or in person.

 

Information We Collect

We may collect the following personal data:

Information you provide:

• Name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Address (if provided)
• Vehicle enquiry details (make, model, budget, part exchange details)

Messages sent via contact forms, email, phone, or WhatsApp

Information collected automatically:

• IP address
• Browser type and device information
• Pages visited and time spent on our website

Cookies and analytics data (e.g., Google Analytics)

 

How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Respond to vehicle enquiries
• Provide vehicle availability and pricing information
• Arrange appointments, test drives, or inspections
• Handle part exchange discussions
• Improve our website and services
• Analyse website traffic and performance

Send updates only where you have given consent

 

Legal Basis for Processing

We process your data under:

• Legitimate Interests – to operate and improve our business
• Contract – to respond to your enquiries
• Consent – for marketing communications and cookies (where applicable)
• Legal Obligation – where required by law

 

How We Share Your Information

We do not sell your personal data.

We may share your data with:

• Vehicle finance providers (only if you request finance assistance)
• Website hosting and IT service providers
• Analytics and advertising platforms (e.g., Google, Meta)
• Professional advisors (legal/accounting)
• Regulatory authorities if required by law

All third parties are required to handle your data securely and lawfully.

 

Cookies

We use cookies to improve website functionality and understand visitor behaviour.

Cookies may be used for:

• Website performance tracking
• Analytics (Google Analytics or similar tools)
• Marketing optimisation

You can disable cookies in your browser settings at any time.

 

Data Storage and Security

We take appropriate measures to protect your data, including:

• Secure hosting
• SSL encryption
• Access control and monitoring

However, no system is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

 

Data Retention

We retain personal data only as long as necessary:

• Enquiry data: up to 12–24 months
• Transaction records (offline sales): up to 6–7 years
• Marketing data: until consent is withdrawn

Analytics data: typically up to 26 months

 

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your personal data
• Correct inaccurate data
• Request deletion of your data
• Object to processing
• Withdraw consent at any time
• Request data portability

To exercise your rights, contact us via our website.

 

Third-Party Links

Our website may include links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for their privacy practices.

 

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised date.

 

Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us via the details on our website.