subject: Buying Used Cars From Online Dealers [print this page] Modern technology can be both a boon and a bane for people buying things online. Online marketing is a faster and more convenient alternative to walking around a crowded mall, but the downside is that you cant really inspect the item as much as youd like. Buying used cars from online dealers is the same, and may even be more complicated. A car, even a pre-owned one, is a big investment and buyers should take extra care in their online transactions.
Find a dealer you can rely on.
Since youre already online, go ahead and do some research on used-car dealers. It is best to look for an established company, preferably with a good reputation. Look for customer testimonials and satisfaction ratings. If you know someone who has acquired a used car from a dealer, ask him or her about the experience, and if he or she would recommend the dealer. Experience is the best teacher, and this also applies to buying used cars.
A dealer should be legitimate and as such, must have the proper government permits and licenses. This information should be available at the dealers website. Most legit dealers are also members in trade associations, so a sign indicating so is a plus. As a customer of a legitimate dealer, you get maximum legal protection. Dealers should also have their cars inspected by a motoring organization, a professional mechanic, or an automotive engineer. Inspection reports should also be readily available for customers to peruse.
Constant and honest communication.
Buying used cars online requires a firm and constant contact with the dealer. A dealer who gives you all the information (good and bad) you ask for can be relied upon to be honest in transactions as well. Ask the dealer about the cars make, model (there may be differences in version or generation), age, accident and repair history, defects, former owners, mileage, and other features. If you have further questions about any of these, ask away. Request the dealer for more detailed photographs, especially of the parts in question.
Inform the dealer about what you intend to use the car for. If the dealer thinks the car you have in mind wont fit your needs, he may suggest a different vehicle which you can also consider. Some people go online with a particular car in mind and end up buying a different car. Once settled on a particular car, you can negotiate with the dealer for the cars final price. Discuss with him the options for payment and shipping details. Online payment should be an option, and the payment service must be secure. The finance agreement between you and the dealer must be clear, with no hidden charges. As for shipping, inform the dealer about the details of your location, nearby port, and local import regulations and requirements, especially for import vehicles. Remind the dealer to give you regular updates on the shipping schedule and so you can arrange matters from your side accordingly.
Buying used cars from online dealers is safe and worry-free once youve found a good, reputable, and legitimate company you can trust.
by: Kyoko Nitori
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
