The Rise of Online Car Buying: Pros, Cons, and Considerations
Posted on May 10, 2024
As our digital lives evolve, so do our purchasing habits. From groceries to furniture, the convenience of online shopping has become ingrained in our routines. But what about buying a car online? Is it a step too far into digital?
Buying a car has taken a sharp turn towards convenience. Canadians are increasingly skipping the dealership and browsing online for their next car. Let’s dig into the growing trend of online car buying, weighing its advantages, disadvantages, and key factors to consider.
A Shift to the Digital World
Just a few years back, buying a car online might've raised eyebrows. Yet, with the rise of online shopping's convenience, the automotive industry has adapted swiftly.
Whether you're a recent grad stepping into the professional world, a small business owner needing a fleet, or someone seeking affordability, the online car marketplace has your back. With platforms like CarHub, the journey from browsing to buying is easier.
Pros of Buying a Car Online
Here are the compelling advantages of buying a car online, which highlights the transformative benefits that this digital approach offers to modern consumers.
1. Convenience
Online car buying enables you to shop for your ideal vehicle from anywhere, be it your home, office during lunch breaks, or while on the move. This flexibility seamlessly integrates into busy schedules, catering to various buyers.
2. Selection and Comparison
Canadian online car dealerships present an extensive array of options, from brand-new luxury cars to preowned vehicles, accommodating various budgets and preferences.
Moreover, the ability to compare models, prices, and reviews in one place facilitates informed decision-making, which is particularly beneficial for budget-conscious individuals.
3. Transparent Pricing
Bid farewell to the ambiguity and pressure of traditional dealership negotiations. Online car buying platforms typically offer upfront pricing, along with clear visibility of deals, discounts, and financing options tailored to different demographics, including those with lower credit scores.
4. Expanded Search Radius
The Internet opens up a vast market for car buyers, transcending regional limitations inherent in traditional methods such as local newspaper ads or word-of-mouth referrals. This expanded reach enhances the likelihood of finding the desired model.
5. 24/7 Accessibility
Online car shopping liberates buyers from the constraints of dealership operating hours, enabling browsing and purchasing at any time of the day or night. This saves significant time compared to physically visiting multiple dealerships, especially for those far from urban centers.
6. Reduced Stress
Shopping for a car online alleviates the pressure associated with in-person negotiations and sales tactics. The absence of face-to-face interactions allows buyers to explore options at their own pace, fostering a stress-free purchasing experience.
The transition to online car buying streamlines the purchasing process and empowers consumers with greater control, transparency, and convenience.
Cons of Buying a Car Online
While online car shopping offers convenience and accessibility, there are some considerations to bear in mind:
1. Inability to Physically Inspect the Vehicle
One downside of online car shopping is you can't physically inspect the car, leaving buyers concerned about potential hidden defects. However, platforms like CarHub have devised solutions to address this issue and provide peace of mind. For example, we can do a walkaround video for you so you can get a close-up view of the condition both inside and on the exterior of the car.
2. Lack of Test Drive Opportunity
The absence of a test drive is an inherent drawback in the online car buying process. Without the chance to experience the vehicle firsthand, buyers may miss out on assessing its performance and ensuring it meets their expectations. However, we’re happy to start it up and even take it out on a spin for you to experience by video how the vehicle sounds.
3. Risk of Fraudulent Websites
Online car buyers must remain vigilant against fraudulent websites. While some may appear legitimate, there's a risk of falling victim to scams. Thorough research into the credibility of the website or car supplier is essential to avoid being swindled. CarHub dealers are registered Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram dealerships and are certified OMVIC and UCDA members, In addition to that, our website URLs are preceded by https, signifying that the site and any data transferred between you and our site are encrypted and secure.
CarHub is available to assist you regarding any issues you might encounter and to facilitate a smooth online car-buying experience.
10 Tips for Buying a Car Online
Purchasing a car online offers convenience and efficiency. However, you need to approach the process with care to keep a positive outcome. Here are some tips to guide you through the online car-buying journey:
1. Research the Car
For new cars, seek the invoice price rather than the MSRP. Compare similar vehicles from one store to another to see if the price looks reasonable. Don’t forget to consider that any add-ons may increase the price of a car, so it may be more expensive, but you may be getting much more value from the car with the add-ons. Check the details carefully. For used cars, research recent resale prices for the specific model you're interested in.
2. Research the Seller
Investigate the reputation of the website, company, or dealership you’re considering. Check for any recurring positive or negative feedback and verify if there are any unresolved complaints or red flags. Are their reviews generally positive and consistent, or do they raise concerns about service quality or trustworthiness?
3. Contact Sellers for Details
Reach out to sellers to inquire about any available information on the vehicle’s history, maintenance records, and warranties.
4. Request a Virtual Tour or Video Inspection
Ask sellers for a virtual tour or video inspection of the car to gain a better understanding of its condition.
5. Consider Your Vehicle’s Trade-in Value
If you have a current vehicle, explore trade-in values for the car – the dealer will likely need you to answer questions, and send a video and photos to them for a proper evaluation.
6. Consider Delivery Options
Decide whether to pick up the car yourself or to have it delivered to your workplace or home. Some dealers may not be able to deliver, so if this is what you require, find out if it’s an option with the dealer that has the vehicle you’re interested in.
7. Review the Return Policy
Understand the return or exchange policy, including any associated costs and the duration of the cooling-off period.
8. Check Vehicle History
Get the vehicle identification number (VIN) and run a vehicle history report to check for accidents, damages, or title issues. Some dealers will provide a CarFax report to you if you request one and others like CarHub provide that service for free on our websites.
9. Verify Seller's Credibility
Make sure the seller has a generally positive reputation.
10. Review Financing Options
Research financing options, including loans, interest rates, and payment terms, to determine the best fit for your budget.
By following these tips, you can navigate the online car buying experience with confidence and make an informed decision.
Discover The Convenience of Online Car Buying Today at CarHub
While exploring the pros and cons of buying a car online, you need to consider both the convenience and potential drawbacks.
With CarHub’s New and Used Cars, you can simplify your online car purchasing journey. Our platform boasts a user-friendly interface, trusted sellers, and detailed car information including everything you need about your next ride.