Guide to buying a car online
Are you ready to buy your next car, or maybe even your first one? In the old days, that meant driving from dealership to dealership in search of the perfect ride and the perfect deal. Now, you can buy a car from the comfort of your own home by shopping online.
According to Think with Google™, 92% of car buyers research their vehicles online before making a purchase. Here, you can learn more about how you can skip the trip to the dealership and finish your purchase on your home computer, laptop, or smartphone.
Tips to finding your next car online
Car buying websites can make the process of finding your next car online fast and easy. Here are a few things to keep in mind while browsing car-buying sites.
Research the types of vehicles you can afford
It’s easy to get carried away when shopping online. Whether you’re shopping for the next addition to your wardrobe or a new set of wheels, do some research into what you’re about to buy before you agree to any terms.
It’s usually a good idea to start with your budget and find a vehicle that you can afford. If you already have an idea of what type of car you want to buy, such as the make and model, you can start shopping.
Inspect used cars independently
If you’re buying a used car from a private seller, it’s a good idea to have it independently inspected before you sign any agreement.
You can still take it for a test drive
Just because you’re buying a car online doesn’t mean you can’t still take it for a test drive. Most car buying sites offer this service before you agree to any terms. It’s a great way to bring the dealership experience to your doorstep without the hassle.
Some test-driving services may require you to pay a fee. But keep in mind that you’re making a large purchase in buying a car. Paying a little extra to ensure you’re getting the best deal is usually worth it.
Check the return policy
Some car buying sites offer a return policy on the vehicles they sell. If you want peace of mind from your purchase, you may want to prioritize car buying sites that offer this.
Search locally
If possible, look for cars that can be sourced locally. This is especially helpful if you’re buying online through a local dealership, as you’ll already have a history with them if you need to bring your car in for regular service.
In some cases, buying locally can even cut some of your costs. Some online car buying sites charge shipping fees to deliver the car to you, so it’s better if it isn’t coming from across the country.
Look for discounts
If you can save some money on your purchase, it will be worth it. Some car buying sites offer discounts if you meet certain criteria or if you take advantage of the other services they offer, like financing.
How to find the best car buying website for you
Several websites allow you to buy a car, but they aren’t all the same. Pay attention to what types of sites you’re looking at and compare them to the car buying experience you want.
Chase Auto connects you directly to local dealers. When you’re ready to make an inquiry, you’ll work with a dedicated dealership employee who will guide you through the entire car-buying experience.
One of the best parts of this service is the fact that you aren’t restricted in your choices for financing. You can still use Chase Auto to find your dream car, connect with a dealership, and make your purchase, even if you obtain financing from a provider other than Chase.
You should also pay close attention to what types of financing options the car buying website offers. Some websites will want you to finance your vehicle exclusively through a provider they’re partnered with. Others will let you go with your own financing options while providing special incentives for going with their partners.
To learn more about shopping for your next car online, check out Chase Auto.
