Car Buying online

Many dealerships will now offer their new and used cars online. Viewing what's in stock is as simple as visiting their website and looking at the stock page. Since going online their lists are usually up-to-date and you can book-in for a test drive, saving you time.

Most websites will have pictures and details of their cars giving you a good idea before you have even made a trip to the dealership. 

Before buying any car it's essential to find reviews of the car. Websites like Honest John, Parkers, and Auto Trader will have extensive reviews as well as safety ratings (EuroNCAP). Reviews from real people, as opposed to the press can be found at carsurvey.org.

If you're expecting to be able to negotiate the price online then we may as well say that it's not possible. The only way to discount the car is to go and visit the dealer. 

Shopping for cars online can be fun, and productive - you can check many dealers from your own home so you're not going in person to every garage looking for what's new. It is in fact a smart way to shop. Be sure though that before buying ANY car you ought to have it properly inspected from an independent technician and make also sure that it's not been written off - check with HPI or an equivalent agency.