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Like virtually every other type of consumer product, you can now purchase both new and used cars online. Although it may appear as though you are getting a better deal by buying a car online, this is not always the case. Always ensure that you are both well informed and careful when purchasing online. If you're considering using the Internet to help you find and purchase your next vehicle, this guide on how to buy a car online will teach you how to go about doing so.
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Like virtually every other type of consumer product, you can now purchase both new and used cars online. Although it may appear as though you are getting a better deal by buying a car online, this is not always the case. Always ensure that you are both well informed and careful when purchasing online. If you're considering using the Internet to help you find and purchase your next vehicle, this guide on how to buy a car online will teach you how to go about doing so.
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Introduction
- Purchasing a car, whether you're doing it online, from a dealer, or from a private seller if never a decision to be entered into lightly. Especially when buying online, it is well worth your while to put in the extra time and effort to do some research and ensure you are not only getting a good deal, but are also getting a quality product.
Step 1: Where to Buy
- Depending on whether you are looking to buy a new or used car, you can find cars for sale through the following online car retailers:
- Ebay Autos
- Cars.com
- AutoTrader.com
- CarsDirect.com
- CarMax.com
Before you even consider buying a car from an online retailer, look into their customer service record. Do some online searches to find customer reviews or articles that detail the experience others have had when buying a car from the company. If you're considering buying a car on eBay, be sure to purchase from a seller that has positive feedback and experience selling cars.
Step 2: Do Your Research
- Whether you are buying new or used, pick up a car buyer's guide or find a reputable online website that provides car reviews and pricing information. Find out the recommended price for the car you are considering purchasing and compare that to the seller's asking price.
If you are buying a used car, ask for the serial number and then order a vehicle history report. You can order a vehicle history report online from Carfax, AutoCheck or Experian Automotive for about $30. The report will let you know whether the car has been:
- Stolen
- Rebuilt
- Used as a taxi or car rental
- Involved in an accident
- In a fire, flood, or hail storm
Step 3: Visit a Local Dealer
- If you are buying a new car, visit a local dealer that stocks the same model and take it for a test drive. If you are happy with the car's performance, show the salesperson the quote you received from the online retailer and ask if he or she will match that price. If the dealer agrees to match the price, you've saved yourself a step and will no longer have to buy online.
Step 4: Make an Agreement
- If you've done all your research and are satisfied with the results, it's time to proceed with the sale. Regardless of who you're buying from, you should always get a signed quote or purchase agreement that details all the terms of sale, including:
- Any additional costs, such as shipping and handling, taxes, etc.
- Guarantees or warranties
Never agree to a purchase that you are not 100% comfortable and satisfied with. If there are any parts of the purchase agreement that you are uncertain of, be sure to ask the required questions.
Conclusion
- Buying a car online from a reputable seller can be a great way to get a reduced price on your next car purchase. However, before you put down the money, be sure that you have done research on the car you are planning to buy and the person or company who is selling it to you. Make sure you are completely aware of what you're getting and how much it's going to cost you.
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