An overwhelming 98 to 99 percent of car buyers nationwide are "completely satisfied" with their recent sales experience, according to Irvine, Calif.-based OCT Group. High ranks were awarded to car dealers, contrary to the often-negative stereotyping of auto sales techniques, reflecting buyer opinion in areas such as the test drive, the salesperson's product knowledge and staff friendliness.

Research also revealed that 99 percent of buyers were completely satisfied with the salesperson's level of listening and understanding their vehicle needs, according to Grant Dunning, president and CEO of the OCT Group.

"These results paint a picture that is contrary to popular perception and stereotypes," Dunning said. "We tip our hat to dealerships across the country for their level of commitment to customer satisfaction. The survey results show that dealers take customer service seriously."

The survey collected replies from 16,505 recent car buyers from small, medium and large dealerships. Of these, 2,602 new referrals were given, reflecting a "completely satisfied customer."

The OCT Group -- One Customer at a Time(TM) -- was founded in 1986 and is based in Irvine, Calif. The OCT Group delivers a systematic approach to relationship marketing, emphasizing customer appreciation and measuring customer satisfaction.

The OCT Group assists approximately 1,000 automotive dealerships throughout North America with developing and maintaining customer relationships through direct mail, thank you gifts, surveys and satisfaction reporting.

For more information, call (800) 443-8937 or visit www.octgroup.com.