During the past decade, auto websites have taken the frustration out of car shopping. The internet offers more competitive pricing than dealerships, and it eliminates the need for haggling. Best of all, there are no aggressive salesmen! Who wants to deal with those pushy people and their high-pressure tactics? Not 30 percent of car shoppers, according to Edmunds; statistics show that nearly one third of all vehicles are now purchased online. Certain steps can help the process go over smoothly:
Test Drive Live
A virtual test drive is nothing compared to the real thing. After deciding on an ideal auto, one would be wise to schedule a test drive, which should last for at least 30 minutes. Any dealership that carries the desired make and model will work. Online reviews are written by people with varied standards, so they can only help you so much. An in-person test drive is the only way to tell for sure how comfortable the vehicle is and whether it handles well - according to your taste.
Do your Research
Auto dealing websites let shoppers compare sticker prices to invoices, provide shopping tips, and have reviews posted for all to see. Take advantage of the advice these sites have to offer! Some of it can even come from real people. Online sellers get commission from volume of cars sold, not the amount paid for each. This makes them glad to help others get great deals. Asking questions is a major part of research, and it can lead to massive savings, especially online.
Beware of Scams
Cyber fraud is most often committed overseas, out of U.S. jurisdiction, so it's not like the victims can sue for their money back. The best defense is knowing how to recognize a scam. Poor grammar is one telltale sign. Unrealistic pricing is another. When was the last time you saw a brand new BMW priced at twelve grand? E-mails that look legitimate and have "fraud-safe guarantees" usually have graphics copied from legitimate sites. Shoppers should always learn to identify scams before making their purchases. Fraud is best prevented through prudence.
Buy Close to Home
Shopping within a 30 mile radius makes the process much less risky; it's easier to test drive nearby vehicles and have them inspected by a certified mechanic. Since there's always risk of title washing fraud, or the illegal replacement of salvaged vehicle titles, ask for the VIN and get a vehicle history report. Companies like Carfax can disclose whether vehicles were ever flooded, salvaged, or crashed. Never make a purchase without ordering service papers first.
Choose Wisely
Check with the Better Business Bureau to make sure the site you use is legitimate. AutoTrader, CarsDirect, and Edmunds are among the most reliable websites for online car shopping. Boasting a car sold every minute, eBay Motors is actually the most expansive of all, but it's easy to get bid-happy and overpay there. Nonetheless, shopping at any one of the trustworthy websites will always be more pleasant than visiting dealerships. Why else would online car shopping be so popular?
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