For some of us, shopping for a brand new ride or a good, solid used car can be a frustrating, time-consuming and inconvenient experience – but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, with a little know-how, you can use the Internet to turn what might otherwise be a downright overwhelming experience into a manageable, and dare I say it – enjoyable – experience.

The Internet is a great resource to assist you in reducing the stress of car shopping, and it can actually help increase the likelihood that you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.

The online shopping search starts with giving some serious thought to the basic things you want in a new or used car. Ask yourself the following questions as you begin your search:

• Do I want a new, used or certified pre-owned vehicle?
• Do I want a car, an SUV or a truck?
• Is this car going to be just for me or for the entire family?
• Do I have a favorite vehicle manufacturer?
• How important is fuel economy?
• Do I want a hybrid?
• How important is the vehicle’s current mileage?
• What am I willing to sacrifice?
• Do I have any color preferences?
• What’s my budget?
• Do I need a loan and if so, can I get pre-approved?
• Am I a cash buyer?
• Do I have money for a down payment and if so, how much money do I have?

Narrowing your preferences on at least a few things and getting a grasp on your overall financial situation will minimize frustration and help to steer you in the right direction.

So, now you need to know where to look. Visit consumer-friendly web sites such as Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com, AutoTrader.com, and CarsDirect.com for news, reviews and comprehensive vehicle overviews.

Automotive web sites that allow you to save car listings and searches will help you save even more time, since you can go back to where you left off instead of starting fresh each time you visit. Once you have reduced your search to a few select vehicles, do a side-by-side comparison of the cars. With just a few clicks, you can quickly compare up-to-date vehicle information and reviews, features, benefits and costs of several vehicles you like. Automotive web sites such as AutoTrader.com allow visitors to personalize their car search and registered users of the My AutoTrader.com function, listed on the company’s website, can save up to 10 searches and up to 25 cars in their personal space and refer back to the searches at a later date. In addition, the comparison tool allows you to compare your top three car choices. 

Another great thing about using the Internet for your next vehicle purchase is that it allows you the opportunity to shop for cars in your area and on your own schedule - when you have time - without regard for the dealerships’ hours of operation.  Most car dealers now have websites that list at least a partial inventory, so it’s easy to get a good idea of what’s available in your area and at at your local dealerships. 

These days, shopping online has become more commonplace as more people shop for bargains and deals, and more information in less time is a bargain I think we can all appreciate!

Tags: Advice, Car Shopping, General, Guides // 2 Comments »