Buying a Used Car Online: Tips and Tricks
Posted Monday, Jan 20, 2025
Looking for a well-functioning used car can be quite difficult and time-consuming. A whole day can go by just reviewing all the options available. You will probably need to take a day off from work, bring someone along who knows cars well, and drive across different parts of the city collecting details and jotting them down. You might even end up collecting a stack of cards in your wallet, only to find yourself even more unsure of the best way to buy a used car.
Why not avoid all this hassle by driving in the opposite direction and buying a used car online instead? It is now easier than ever to invest in a high-performing used car loaded with top-notch features from within the comfort of your home. Online sales of used cars in the U.S. are expected to reach 18% of all used car sales by 2025, up from 9.7% in 2020.
By buying online, you can make the whole process significantly easier for yourself - you just need to know the top tips to buy a used car online.
1. Do Your Research
Are you worried about not having enough knowledge before buying a used car online? Don't fret; a simple Google search can help you understand what the car is worth and understand the specifics of its model, price, and notable features. It will help you negotiate the best price for the used car.
2. Know Your Budget
Know exactly how much you're willing to spend, and don't go too far beyond it. It is important to have a list of requirements and a reasonable budget before you buy a used car online. You can also make a list of features you would be willing to compromise on to make the overall process easier.
According to financial experts, your used car payment shouldn't be over 10% of your monthly income. You may pay more or less, depending on your budget. Please keep in mind that the car payment isn't all there is to consider; you will also be spending on monthly fuel and maintenance, so budget accordingly.
The good news is that pre-owned vehicles are cheaper to purchase and insure. They also lose value much slower than new vehicles, which depreciate from the moment they're driven out of the lot, losing up to 33% after 3 years.
3. Run a VIN Check
Here's one thing you absolutely don't want to skip: running a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) check. This will help you see if the used car has been in any accidents, how many owners it's had, and if it has any major issues. A quick report can alert you to hidden problems, saving you from purchasing a vehicle that would be more trouble than it's worth.
A VIN check is a small investment that can prevent costly surprises down the road and provide you with peace of mind, knowing you're well aware of what you're buying.
4. Inspect the Car
You might be buying a used car online, but be sure to thoroughly look at what you're buying! Message the car dealership to ask for high-quality images of the car from different angles and request detailed descriptions as well as specifications. You can also request a third party, like your mechanic, to inspect the car before you put your money into it.
5. Choose a Reputable Seller
Just as we stick to popular brands because of their quality and service, reputable car dealerships also have a story of credibility to maintain. You wouldn't want to buy a dress from an unknown designer for an important event; similarly, it's best to opt for trusted dealerships for a big investment like a car.
Ask friends and family if they've purchased a used car online. Collecting reviews and references online will help you pick a reliable car dealership to buy a used car online.
6. Go for a Test Drive Before Purchasing
While online shopping has made the process of buying a used car easier, hands-on experience is still important. While some online retailers do offer return policies, returning a car can be a hassle. Therefore, it's crucial to take a test drive of any car you're considering before making the payment.
Additionally, if you're deciding between different models, a test drive will help you make the best choice.
7. Negotiate the Price
Don't hesitate to negotiate the best deal for yourself. Haggle over the total payment, not the monthly payment, and remain firm on your budget. If you find the same used car model on different websites and you have a pre-approved deal, ask if they can beat that. Go for the one that is physically and functionally better and priced wisely. Use your research to justify your offer, and be willing to walk away if the deal doesn't meet your criteria.
8. Contract Satisfaction
Make sure everything is clearly written in the contract before buying a used car online. Be on the lookout for any red flags, like dealers who don't answer your questions upfront or provide vague responses. There should be no ambiguous clauses, and the contract should include:
- Vehicle details (model, make, year, mileage)
- Price and payment terms (full payment or advance, how will it be paid)
- Condition of the vehicle
- Return and exchange policy
- Taxes and additional fees
- Ownership and title transfer
- Buyer protection clauses
- Signature and dates
9. Secure Your Purchase
Now that you've found the perfect dealer and car, let's discuss how to safeguard yourself during the payment process. Always use secure payment methods offered by the dealer's platform and avoid any personal bank transfers. Verify the seller's reputation and avoid unusual payment methods like gift cards or cryptocurrency. Make sure there are no hidden fees before completing the transaction.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have thoroughly reviewed the process of buying a used car online - you're ready for your new ride!
With careful consideration and inspection, you can easily secure the best deal. Aim for the best car options available within your budget, and trust that with research and patience, you'll make the right choice for you.
At Hyatt Cars of Lexington, we offer the best quality, high-performing used cars online at reasonable rates. Reach out to us today to buy a used car online. Happy car shopping!
