What To Look For When Buying A Used Car Online

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A USED CAR ONLINE

You can buy everything online these days, including a used car. SPOTICAR explains how and why to buy a used car online, as well as what to check before you do.

If you’ve already bought a smartphone or TV from an online site, you know there’s no need to worry about buying goods online – and buying a second-hand car is no exception. SPOTICAR can help you make a secure purchase from a trusted reseller.

SHOULD YOU TRUST USED CAR ADS ONLINE?

Here are some of the most common concerns you might have about buying a used car online:

I’m afraid I’ll end up with a defective car

This is a risk when buying any second-hand car; whether at a showroom or online. The main thing you can do to prevent this from happening is to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before purchase, test drive it, ask lots of questions and see copies of all the documents.

I’m afraid of being ripped off

Unscrupulous and dishonest people unfortunately do exist on the Internet. They are fortunately somewhat rare and can be foiled simply by being thorough with your checks of the vehicle. However, buying from a professional like SPOTICAR is much safer and helps avoid scams.

I don’t trust online sales

Over the past few decades, consumers have generally accepted that online sales are safe. Transactions between individuals can be a little trickier to navigate, but can be made much safer with a few precautionary measures.

WHY SHOULD I BUY A USED CAR ONLINE?

The Internet gives you access to a wider pool of used cars than traditional methods, and you also get much more information about each one, enabling easy comparison between different used cars. For example, you might not know at face value if a used Citroën C3 from 2016 is more suitable for you than a used Renault Clio from 2015, but the details available online can help you work out that the Citroën is the better play.

This is one of the great advantages of the Internet. There is so much choice and information available, you are sure to find what you’re looking for.

If you need to test drive a vehicle before purchasing, which is always recommended, it’s usually pretty easy to line this up with an online seller – whether they are a professional outfit or individual seller.

Another advantage is that you can often arrange for your vehicle to be delivered directly to your door when you’re ready to receive it. Payment and financing assistance can also be arranged 100% online to fully digitise your order.

HOW DO I BUY A USED CAR ONLINE?

Once you’ve worked out roughly what it is you want to buy, head to the classified sites – if you want to buy your used car from an individual. Choose the ad you like, say a used PEUGEOT 308, and contact the owner. Be mindful that when you buy your second-hand car from an individual, you will usually be expected to pay directly when you go to check the car in person.

If you’d rather go through a professional dealer to buy your used car online, simply visit their website. Research the available offers and ask for more information on the Volkswagen Tiguan or Vauxhall Astra that catches your eye. On some sites, payment can be made online.

In both situations, you’ll need to carry out all the usual checks on the general condition of the vehicle and accessories, as well as ask about any accidents and the maintenance history of the vehicle.

BUYING A USED CAR FROM A DEALER

SPOTICAR is a professional agency bringing together the expertise of a network of 500 professional retailers and agents. This gives you a controlled and safe space, with satisfaction guarantees protecting your purchase to ensure you get a vehicle that works for you.

Driving away with a second-hand car from SPOTICAR also means you get to enjoy numerous benefits, including:

Minimum 12 months warranty
12 Months Roadside Assistance

Comprehensive multi point check
Vehicle history & mileage check
30-day vehicle exchange programme
Manufacturer retail experience from trusted brands
Part exchange of your previous vehicle

Finance options & Extended Warranty available
Professional advice and support

SPOTICAR removes the risks of buying used cars online for total peace of mind, so have a look online today to find the best second-hand car for you.