Automobile Buying and the Internet
The Internet has revolutionized the auto market. In the old days car buyers usually bought local, often making decisions based on the salesman's personality. Today over 50% of car buyers use the Internet for research and / or purchase. Whether you know exactly what you want, think you have an idea, or are clueless, all the information you need to make an intelligent decision is at your fingertips.
While struggling auto makers are offering sweet deals on the latest models, new cars are not always the best choice. Many vehicles depreciate most rapidly during the first 20,000 miles. This can turn your sweet deal into a bitter experience. On the other hand, no one wants to buy someone else's problem. Fortunately the Web can help you locate a used car and provide scam protection.
Buying Advise'sunique used car search tool is a valuable resource for the pre-owned vehicle purchaser. You simply select the make and fill in your zip code. They provide you with details, photos, and auto certification, if applicable. They have also ranked the top five most reliable used cars, by model, from 1996 to 2006.Ebay Motorsalso offers used car, RV, and motorcycle listings from private parties and commercial dealerships.
The Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle program offered by dealerships and large rental companies is another option for low mileage, lightly used cars and trucks.IntelliChoice.comoffers a complete overview of the best CPO vehicles based on eight different criteria.
Once you find an promising used vehicle,Car Faxcan protect you from a potential scam. Just enter the vehicle's VIN number, and they will provide the automobile's accident history, previous ownership, and even tell you if the car is a lemon.
Leasing is another valid option offering monthly payments often 30% to 60% lower than purchasing. In addition many states pro-rate the sales tax on leased vehicles. Other benefits include less cash up front and full-coverage maintenance plans. However, an auto lease binds you to some strict guidelines such as limited mileage and contract breakage penalties.
Many new and used car websites offer leased vehicles, as do most auto dealerships. To help you avoid some basic lease hazards,Safe Car Guidehas put together 13 Leasing Pitfalls To Avoid.'
Ah, the new car smell. No dings. No dents. No hassles. No worries. For some, a new car is the only way to go. For the new car buyer,MSN Autos' websiteoffers the broadest search options. With a few key strokes, you can compare up to nine vehicles side by side. Evaluate features. Review specifications. Peruse pricing. Even compare interior and exterior photos.
In addition MSN Autos will assist you in comparing various makes and models' reliability ratings. They have even divided automobiles into categories and cataloged them into Best of Class Ratings. Furthermore, if there has been an issue, they describe the character and degree in ordinary language to help you decide whether the problem is serious enough to merit passing on an otherwise desirable vehicle. Unfortunately, the Internet can also produce information overload. With so much to choose from, you can end up with no idea of what you really want.My Product Advisoroffers a unique search format that will help.
You answer a few questions about the features you desire. They provide you with make and model comparisons, detailed information, and up to date product specifications. Because they do not promote or sell products, you can trust their unbiased car recommendations.
No matter how nice a vehicle may seem, safety is important.Crash Testgives you new car crash results and older vehicle safety ratings. You will also find information on vehicle safety inspections and extended warranties.
Today no one can afford to overlook fuel efficiency. While your perusal of various new automobiles will have offered fuel mileage expectations,Car Priceprovides thought-provoking advice on driving tips, engine size, diesel versus gasoline, and hybrids. Along with listing automobiles with the lowest fuel costs,Intellichoice.comlists those with the lowest maintenance, repair, and operating costs as well as those with the highest retained value.
Before you finalize your purchase decision, it is wise to get an unbiased opinion.Consumer Reportsis a nonprofit, independent research and testing organization which provides valuable pre-purchase information. A link on the upper left side of their home page will furnish you with vehicle ratings, test results, and the bottom line price range. They also offer quick links for the best new cars', best cars under 25,000', best cars for short or tall drivers', kid safety', and tips to avoid letting the car dealer make you pay'.
Fortunately the Internet has even circumvented the hard-to-handle salesman.Edmundsoffers dealer ratings to help you find not only the closest, but the best dealership for your needs.
Your car research is complete. You know what you want. You know what you should expect to pay. You have found a reliable source. One question remains: What can I expect from my trade-in? Click the link at the center ofKelly Blue Book'shome page and their search engine will help you determine a fair price for your trade in.Autobytel.comalso allows you to check values based on dealer trade-in or potential resale price.
If you have decided to purchase a new car, you might want to check outNew Cars.comfor hot rebates and cool deals. Another site,Why Pay Sticker.comallows you to search for local specials.
Once you know what you want and how much you are going to have to pay for it, you will probably need financing. Different financiers specialize in different markets.EZ Auto Loansoffers no obligation financing quotes to those with poor credit.Auto Financingoffers advice and several financing options.
Even if you plan to finance your purchase through a bank or credit union, using a loan calculator will allow you to estimate your payments in advance.Autobytel.comhas a standard loan calculator.Buying Adviceoffers one which is a bit unique. It allows you to enter your desired monthly payment, your down payment, your credit rating, your loan term, and your state sales tax. Based on this information, they provide you with a maximum purchase or leasing price.
One more important component in your final decision is automobile insurance. Because rates vary widely between makes and models, it is wise to do some research before making your purchase.Online Auto Insurancegives you quotes from several companies based on your vehicle's specifics and your physical location.
Internet research and purchase is becoming a standard part of the car and truck buying experience. However, consumers can also examine and acquire new and used motorcycles and recreational vehicles online at several sites includingMotorcycle ReviewerandRV Dealeres.com.
Regardless of your vehicle of choice, the Web has changed the shopping experience. With little time and energy, you might end up with more than you thought you could afford, or with something better than you expected. Either way, the Internet will make it simple.
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