ALT-1 Tips for Buying your Car Online
The availability of information on the Internet has encouraged most car buyers to research, shop, and in some cases actually purchase their cars on-line. According to J.D. Power and Associates, 54% of late-model used vehicle buyers are using the Internet during their shopping process. Whether you are researching makes and models to determine what fits your needs or shopping for a specific vehicle to go and purchase, the web can be a simple and informative tool.
Let's start with make and model research. Manufacturer sites (if you are considering a new car) are now very comprehensive with model and equipment information. Some have "build your own" modules so you can see what colors and equipment combinations are possible and their MSRP.
Other sites such as Cars Direct ,Cars.com,Kelly Blue Bookor AutoTrader can offer a huge assortment of information. These sites allow the consumer to shop for both new and used vehicles. You can research makes and models, current incentives, warranties, side by side comparisons, equipment availability, and free quotes from dealers. On Cars Direct you can even see the "invoice" amount on new cars.
Once you have determined the type of vehicle you want, find several that you are interested in and ask the dealers for a quote. Be prepared, many of the quotes you get back will be "non-quotes" designed to get pull you into a conversation with the salesperson. They will ask you questions about your trade, financing, credit rating, price range, etc. Or, they may just say "call us". Just remember, you are in the driver's seat. Be patient and ask for a specific quote on the car you are interested in.
Now, if you are looking to purchase a new vehicle, your pricing will be close to "invoice" or what the dealer pays. It is common to pay between invoice and 3-5% over for new cars. Ask the salesperson to fax or email you a copy of the invoice complete with the VIN. Also, ask for a complete printout of all fees and taxes as well factory incentives associated with the purchase. If you can get two or three quotes in this manner, you should be able to narrow down your choice.
If, however, you are looking to purchase a used vehicle, more research is required. You will want to do some research on used car valuation sites to determine a fair price for the vehicle. Depending on where you live, different valuations are used. The most common areKelly Blue BookandNADA. At both sites, look at the "Retail" value to determine what the current market is on a particular used car. Once you receive your quotes from the dealers, compare them to the research you have done. Remember, every used car is an individual. Each has different miles, condition and history. Ask the dealer for a Carfax report to determine if the vehicle has been maintained or ever in an accident. Once again, have the dealer send you a complete breakdown of all fees and taxes. You will also want information on remaining factory warranty or dealership warranties on the car.
Lastly, do a little research on the dealership itself. Ask your friends, search for reviews on-line and ask the salesperson why you should do business with them. Go to the dealership to drive and inspect the car for yourself. Once you have determined that this is the car for you, you will know you have done as much as you possibly could to be an informed and educated buyer.
