Online shopping is taking over the way we shop for clothes, groceries, and even cars. With sites like TrueCar and Carvana, consumers can skip the dealership hassle and buy their new vehicle online. However, buying a new vehicle online takes some extra thought and considerations to make sure you’re getting a car you’re happy with. Use these five tips for online car shopping to make sure you get everything you want.
Where Do You Want To Buy From?
The possibilities are endless online. You can use a site like Carvana to avoid dealing with dealership salespeople. Or you can go through a dealership if you’d prefer a little more of an old school car shopping experience. Lastly, if you’re shopping for a used vehicle, you can skip the dealers and car selling websites and buy straight from an individual seller.
Choose whatever option best fits your desires. No matter what option you go with, the same standard tips for car buying still apply, like doing thorough research before committing.
Test Driving
For some, the test drive is imperative to the car buying experience. Without stepping foot into a brick-and-mortar dealership, getting a feel for the vehicle you’re interested in can be a challenge. If you’re working with a dealership online, you can schedule a test drive, however, you won’t be able to avoid pesky salespeople.
If you’re working with a third-party seller, you can always schedule a test drive with a local dealership to drive the type of vehicle you’re interested in. If you choose to do so, keep in mind the car you test drive won’t be the same one you purchase.
Don’t Skip Out on History Reports
If you can’t see the vehicle in person, a history report is vital. Make sure the seller provides a thorough history report that gives you a clear picture of what you’re investing in.
Make Sure There’s a Return Policy
Shopping for anything online is risky, especially when making such a big purchase. Make sure there’s a return policy before you buy a car online. Buying a used car from an independent seller will most likely not include a return policy, but a third-party car-selling website may allow returns. Likewise, asking the dealership you’re working with about a return policy should be one of the many questions you ask them.
Do You Have a Plan To Get Your New Vehicle?
One of the benefits of shopping online is that you aren’t stuck shopping at only one local dealership. Online car shopping allows you to expand your search near and far to find the right vehicle and price for you. However, this also means you’ll need to prepare for when it’s time to pick up your new car. If you don’t want to travel long distances, you’ll likely still need to stick to a nearby location. Some third-party sellers may even offer delivery services.
Buying a new car is a stressful and meticulous event. If you’re looking to opt-out of the anxiety inducing aspects of visiting a dealership, consider buying online with these five tips for online car shopping.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
