5 Pros and Cons of Buying a Car Online

Online car shopping has been on the rise for years now. In fact, most brick-and-mortar dealerships now offer online sales departments, and various websites feature online car sales only. The number of consumers purchasing their next vehicle with a click of a mouse is increasing. However, many drivers still prefer shopping for cars in person.

If you've been debating whether buying a car online is right for you, read on. And when you're ready to get the coverage you need for your next ride, an independent insurance agent can get you set up with the right car insurance. But first, here's a guide to whether online car shopping is a good choice for you.

Potential Drawbacks of Buying a Car Online

Many websites now allow customers to not only shop for and buy cars online, but complete other steps of the process as well, such as applying for financing and negotiating prices. In some cases, prospective buyers can also have cars delivered to their doors to take for a test drive before they decide to complete the purchase.

But there are some possible cons to buying cars online to be aware of before you decide to go this route. Keep these drawbacks in mind if you're considering buying your next vehicle online.

Con #1: Lots of Research Required

Buying a car online requires customers to do a lot of research on their own. If you go to a dealership in person, you can ask the sales team about the specifics of each vehicle without having to browse the internet to find the information you're looking for. 

You should also ideally spend much more time researching possible vehicles you want to buy if you plan to shop online, since you won't be able to comparison shop different makes and models in person. Sometimes, photos don't match up to expectations once you see the 3D version.

Con #2: Possible Lack of Negotiation and Test Drives

While some websites allow customers to arrange for a test drive of a vehicle before they purchase it, this isn't always the case. Buying a vehicle without test-driving it yourself first is always risky, especially if it's a used vehicle. 

If the website you're buying from doesn't have a feature that allows you to request a test drive, the best thing you can do might be to seek out a friend or family member who owns a similar car or, better yet, the same type of car you're looking at and ask them if you can drive theirs to get a feel for it.

Also, certain websites don't allow customers to negotiate the sales price and instead advertise "clear and transparent pricing," meaning negotiations aren't possible. While this can provide stress relief for some customers, many others want some power in agreeing to the final price of their next vehicle. The lack of negotiating room means that you'll likely pay more for the same car online than you'd be able to at a dealership, especially if a salesperson were trying to meet a quota.

Con #3: Possible Lack of Inspection

Often, buying a vehicle online doesn't allow you to get it professionally inspected by a licensed third-party mechanic before you seal the deal. Inspections are a critical part of the car buying process because they allow customers to address any existing issues upfront and sometimes allow price negotiations if a vehicle has extensive issues. 

If you buy a car online, take advantage of its return period. Get an inspection done ASAP, and if you're unsatisfied with the results, return the vehicle. 

Potential Benefits of Buying a Car Online

On the other hand, many prospective car customers find major benefits to online shopping. So, when deciding if buying a car online is right for you, be sure also to take these possible advantages into account.

Pro #1: Tons of Options

Online shopping provides a ton of options in just about every category, and cars are no exception. You can filter car sales websites by make or model or even down to specific features or paint color. Many buyers get frustrated by the lack of inventory and options at dealerships, so shopping for the exact car they want online can make the most sense for them.

Pro #2: Convenience and Lack of Pressure

Customers can buy the car of their dreams online from the comfort of their own homes. This can provide a much more relaxing environment and process for many drivers because they can avoid interactions with potentially pushy salespeople entirely. 

Shopping for cars online allows you to take your time without pressure from a sales team or a lack of inventory. You can even change your mind as many times as you like without the possibility of getting flack from a salesperson looking to meet a quota fast. 

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Don't Skip the Car Insurance

When you buy a car, regardless of whether it's online or in person, you'll most likely need to get it properly insured. Car insurance is required by law in nearly all states, though the specific coverage requirements vary by location. Working with an independent insurance agent is a great way to get matched to the coverage that's required in your area, as well as the types of coverage you may personally desire to add to your policy.

The Benefits of Working with an Independent Insurance Agent

An independent insurance agent can work with multiple car insurance companies to compare prices and policy options. They'll be able to shop and compare coverage to find you the best possible policy. And down the road, your agent can help file car insurance claims for you and update your coverage as necessary.