It isn’t just our daily lives that have been negatively impacted by the continued spread of the novel coronavirus. Industries and businesses are having to quickly adapt to survive in this new reality of social distancing and stay-at-home orders. If shopping on the internet wasn’t popular before, it surely is now. Even big-ticket items like automobiles have looked to online sales as a way to keep their industries afloat.
Shopping for a used car online is now easier than ever before. Car dealerships have stepped up efforts to make the online car shopping experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. But what if you’re not familiar or comfortable with navigating the online car-buying scene and need some pointers on how to buy a used car online? Well, we have got you covered! Here are some tips for buying a used car online so you can stay safe and sheltered-in-place at home.
Tips for Buying a Used Car Online
1. Research Cars
The internet is loaded with used cars for sale. It is also a great place to thoroughly research the used cars on your shortlist. If you can manage to whittle it down to three or so car brands, the next move is to look up those makes and models individually and see how each performs. You and only you understand what you want and need out of a used car. Jot down a quick list of your wants and needs and cross-reference that with your research. Pay close attention to the pros and cons of each car, and keep an eye out for reviews attached to that model of automobile. Find out what each car’s ‘miles per gallon’ or MPG is. This will give you great insight into how much it will cost to fuel your car each week.
2. Compare Costs
Being able to compare prices is one of the biggest benefits of buying a used car online. Some websites even give you the option to choose several cars and cost compare them right on the spot. While it will be tempting to go with the most affordable option, it is important you weigh potential repair costs for any of the older models on your shortlist. Landing somewhere in the middle of affordability vs. reliability is sometimes the safest bet.
3. Contact the Car Dealer or Seller and Ask Questions
Now that you have narrowed your search and you know what used car you want to buy, it’s time to ask the seller or dealership some serious questions. Before you sign your name on the dotted line, here are some questions you’ll want to ask first…
- Are there any mechanical issues I should know about?
- Has the car been in any accidents? If so, how many and can you provide a full accident report?
- Can I have a mechanic take a look under the hood before buying?
- How much mileage is on the car?
- Has the car been properly cleaned?
- Did the car undergo regular maintenance under the last owner?
- If buying from a car dealer, has the car been serviced since it was at the dealership?
4. Check Vehicle History Reports
Before you commit to purchase any used car online, you’ll need to see the vehicle history report. This will be the final step to check and search for past accident reports, any documented repairs, confirm the mileage, and even see if the previous owner kept up with regular maintenance. This can be accomplished in a few different ways. The easiest way is to obtain the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) from the dealer or private seller. You can then take the VIN number and run it through several databases to get a full and accurate history report.
Contact CarWorld With Questions About Buying a Car Online
First and foremost, we value the health and safety of our customers and staff. As a business, CarWorld is taking the extra steps necessary to maintain a healthy and sanitary workplace while still meeting customer’s needs.
CarWorld offers an online car shopping experience, home delivery, and proper sterilization and cleaning of vehicles. For those that are still not comfortable shopping for a car online, we have adjusted our dealership hours for those that want to come in person.
With all the latest events around COVID-19, CarWorld will continue to operate during regular business hours. Together, we can maintain a healthy environment and combat the spread of COVID-19. On behalf of our dealership, we thank you for being a loyal customer. Please don’t hesitate to reach out as we remain dedicated to serving you for all of your automotive needs through this challenging time.
CarWorld delivers the car or truck you purchase to your front door!
We have a large inventory of used sedans, midsize SUV, and SUVs, as well as a premium inventory of high-end vehicles. Visit our “buy here, pay here” dealership for help finding the vehicle you want and need. To learn more, trade-in your vehicle, and view our latest inventory, call (310) 644-9444 or visit our dealership at 11916 Prairie Ave. in Hawthorne.
