Step1
Form a general picture of what you're looking for. Consider how you'll be using the car, what you're willing to spend, and which factors are important to you, such as fuel efficiency, reliability and safety features.
Step2
Check into the resale value and repair history of past models in this car line, such as by consulting Consumer Reports magazine or its Web site (www.consumerreports.org).
Step3
Open your browser and type in the name of a manufacturer'for example, 'www.ford.com' or 'www.toyota.com''or use a search engine if this doesn't produce what you're seeking.
Step4
Enter requested information when prompted. Most manufacturers' Web sites have detailed information on models, including available options, photos and MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price).
Step5
Find Web sites containing ads for used cars, if new models are a bit out of your price range. For example, look in the business or automotive sections of popular search engines, or try search strings like 'Internet car dealers' and 'buy a car online.'
Step6
Look for a site that offers detailed information about each of its used-car listings. Some automotive sites conduct inspections of used cars via independent mechanics'these are generally good places to shop. Look in the 'about us' section of each site for information on its background and services.
Step7
Use the site's database to find reviews and ratings for specific cars by make, model and year. Then, visit independent sites (sites that do not sell cars and are unaffiliated with car companies and dealerships) to find reviews and technical information about various makes and models.
Step8
Understand that many sites, whether selling new or used cars, will only put you in contact with retailers or individual sellers, leaving you to finish the deal the old-fashioned way: person to person.
Step9
Realize that online car shopping is changing every day. There is an occasional site that may deliver a new or used car to your door, with the paperwork completed by the truck driver; these transactions are usually accompanied by a hefty delivery fee. More likely, if a site delivers, it will do so to a nearby 'delivery center' in your area.
Comments
jpvelo said
on 10/3/2008 What if you're not sure of what car to buy?
Anonymous said
on 7/31/2006 Buying a car online is a risky business. Use the Internet for researching products, prices and dealers, but never buy a car without actually seeing it and inspecting it carefully before you pay out your hard-earned money. Most importantly, never buy a car in a different state from where you live, unless you are willing to just drive away and never complain to the seller again if something goes wrong later. If you ever have to take a dealer to court over a bad car, you want the court process to be as convenient to you as possible.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Online sales representatives, like in-store reps, have different personalities. Those personalities come through in their e-mails to you, and the way they respond to your questions. If you feel that someone is being honest and fair with you, they usually are. You'll never find this out by reading one e-mail quote from them. Get them involved in an online conversation through e-mail and you'll find out very quickly who you're dealing with. Also, make sure you get an out-the-door price quote from every dealer you receive quotes from. This is where some less scrupulous dealers (who don't really belong in the online process) can pull the wool over your eyes.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 I found the car I wanted to buy locally and then went shopping online. I found exactly what I wanted $5,000 cheaper than my friend's car. It was two hours away, but they were willing to bring it to me. It was a good experience and saved lots of money.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Always find out about the final costs of your purchase and compare it to dealer costs. Most online companies subtract factory rebates from their prices to make their "pricing" more attractive.