Buying Used Cars Online

One of the best tools for purchasing a new vehicle online is research. I know it seems obvious, many would be surprised how often consumers jump into buying used cars online without considering many factors. Big online organizations rarely give consumers information about the vehicle beyond what the seller has posted.

Here’s a few helpful hints about buying a used car online.

1. Know all the right questions:

Learn all you can about the used car, have an understanding about what the seller is talking about.

Buying the cheapest used car online might not pan out. Remember: It’s the cheapest used car for a reason. If you’re not mechanically inclined, you may not want a “fixer upper.” Find out what needs fixing.

If you are looking at certified pre-owned cars, look at the fine print of each organization as warranty information can vary significantly.

2. Location, location, location:

Many online sites have a great selection of vehicles – that are far away. Be realistic about shipping costs.

If you travel to look at a used car, try to bring someone who is mechanically inclined. Better to know in advance if a car is defective.

Used car lots that advertise online tend to have used car sales. Make sure the vehicle is still there if you go to visit. “Bait and switch” is a common tactic – try to have other vehicles in other locations ready for you to research.

3. Used car prices:

You can negotiate a used car’s price with greater flexibility than most new car’s prices. Just like new car quotes, used car quotes are merely a beginning point for negotiations.

Using the internet, magazines and some due diligence, you should be able to figure in the absolute lowest price for a vehicle. Be suspicious of anyone asking a significantly higher or lower used car price.

Think with your head – get a vehicle you need vs. the one you want if you are on a tight budget, it just makes sense. Don’t let some slick salesperson talk you into something you don’t want or need.

We hope these quick tips help. Do not forget to access other Autodriver pages that have more helpful hints like Buying Cheap Used Cars: Getting Started, Buying New Cars: Getting Started and Buying New Cars Online.