The ability to shop online without having to leave one’s home is a highly attractive concept for many people—especially during this day and age. Today, you can purchase just about anything online, from clothes to groceries. In fact, you can even make substantial purchases, such as buying a used car, at the touch of a button. If you’re considering purchasing your next vehicle from the comfort of your home, here are some of the top pros and cons of buying a used car online to keep in mind.
Pros of Buying a Used Car Online
While making such a large purchase online may seem a little daunting, there are several benefits to purchasing a used car online. Some of the most notable advantages include:
- No Pressure: When going to the dealership to purchase a used car, it’s common to encounter agents who are eager to make a sale. As such, you may fall victim to high-pressure sales tactics that could cause you to make a decision that you wouldn’t have otherwise made. When purchasing a used car online, it’s just you and your computer, so there is no need to feel pressured into making a rash purchasing decision.
- Convenience: Another significant benefit of purchasing a used car online is convenience. By shopping online, you don’t have to be restrained by limited store hours or go through the hassle of driving all the way out to the dealership. Online, purchasing a car is as quick and easy as the touch of a button.
- Larger Selection: At the dealership, you will only have access to the cars that they have stocked in their limited inventory. Online, however, there is a virtually endless supply of vehicles for you to browse until you find the perfect car for your personality and tastes.
Cons of Buying a Used Car Online
As you can see, there are many attractive benefits to purchasing a used car online. That said, purchasing a pre-owned vehicle online isn’t always the best option. Here are some of the top cons of purchasing a used car online.
- You Can’t Get A Closer Look: When purchasing a used car online, all you’ll have to go on is the pictures that are provided. As such, you won’t be able to take a closer look under the hood or beneath the vehicle to check for any potential red flags.
- No Test-Drive: Another significant con to purchasing a used vehicle online is that you can’t exactly take it for a test drive. As such, you won’t be able to get an idea of how it feels to drive it, how the vehicle sounds, and if there are any issues with its operation. As such, one of the most important tips for purchasing a used car online is to do your research on the vehicle’s history to identify any past accidents or potential problems that it may have before it’s too late.
- Longer Wait Times: When purchasing a car online, you’ll likely experience longer wait times than you would at the dealership. Instead of being able to drive the vehicle right off the lot, you’ll likely have to wait anywhere from a few days to several weeks before you’re able to get behind the wheel of your new ride due to delivery delays.
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.
