How To Find The Exact Car You Want

The ongoing semiconductor chip shortage has fabricated finding a new car surprisingly difficult. Some of the market'due south most sought-subsequently models are in short supply, and some popular features are temporarily unavailable. Shopping used is a great alternative to long waiting lists and inflated prices, specially since the number of resources bachelor to buyers grows on a regular basis. Some are better than others, however.

The best used automobile sites offer a user-friendly interface that provides shoppers with comprehensive details about the car they're looking at, like high-resolution photos showing the interior and the exterior, its service history, plus its standard and optional equipment. Some fifty-fifty tell yous if you lot're looking at a smashing deal, or if the price isn't quite fair.

We've put together a listing of the classifieds and auction sites you should scan when shopping for your next used car online. Alternatively, if you're buying new, automakers and dealers are increasingly making the ownership process digital.

AutoTrader.com

The best well-known site

Few sites surpass AutoTrader.com when it comes to advanced search tools. Like most sites on our list, AutoTrader's initial search lets you choose the make, model, and price of your desired used cars. Information technology too lets yous filter your results based on fuel economy and a host of other parameters. Do you want a car with an intuitive navigation system? How virtually a sedan with four doors and keyless entry? Tick the options you need and let the results come to you.

CarsDirect.com

The best site for the basics

Simple and straightforward, CarsDirect.comis all nearly the basics. You can search for used cars inside a specific area based on body style, price, make, and/or model. Search results include offerings from both dealers and owners, with an option to view your desired automobile's Carfax report. When you find what yous're after, yous can submit an enquiry virtually information technology to receive more details from the seller, or request special financing if needed. At that place are links to car dealers' websites, likewise equally comprehensive maps with directions to each store's location.

Hemmings.com

The all-time site for classic automobile lovers

Hemmings is a classic car collector's dream. The site is a blast from the past, reveling in everything from 1960s Chevrolet Impalas to Studebakers from the 1930s to newer classics from the 1980s while offering tools for locating specific parts and services pertaining to a auto you already own. It publishes a daily newsletter, a fascinating blog that'southward regularly updated past a team of knowledgeable writers, and several other resources aimed at the archetype auto owner. It even touts an online store where y'all can purchase die-cast models, books, or wall calendars.

Autolist.com

The best site for browsing on the go

Autolist may await similar to other sites here at first glance, but it has a leg upward on the contest when it comes to mobile connectivity. Although the Autolist website is attractive and easy to use, it's the accompanying mobile app for Android and iOS that makes it a standout. The intuitive software allows you to quickly scour the databases of other shopping apps, likewise as diverse dealer websites. It as well provides helpful data, such as how long the vehicle has been on auction, how its asking toll has fluctuated over time, and what its Carfax report looks like. If you prefer to shop for your next ride on the motion, this is the resource for you.

CarGurus.com

The best site for finding a bargain

If yous're looking for a bargain, CarGurus is your best bet. It ranks ads based on dealer reputation, when applicable, and price. The site goes a pace further to educate buyers with information nigh a vehicle'south market value. That way, you lot'll know whether now is the best time to shop or if you need to expand your search expanse. You lot can too see how long a vehicle has been listed on the site and how its list cost has inverse over time. This gives you lot negotiating ability on cars that have been listed for a while, or lets you know when information technology'due south too soon to ask for a cost cut.

AutoTempest.com

The best site for cross-site comparisons

If you've ever used sites like Kayak or Sky Scanner, AutoTempest.com will be correct up your alley. The site combines search results from eBay Motors, Cars.com, AutoTrader, CarsDirect, and others, casting an all-encompassing net over a smattering of other used car sites on our list. AutoTempest's homepage also features buying guides, checklists, and advice, as well as tips on negotiating and how to avoid purchasing a lemon, among other topics. The site provides specific guides for a selection of makes and models, along with car reviews and a compilation of frequently asked questions. And, it saves search results for easy access later, while offering suggestions for top-notch shipping services.

KBB.com (Kelley Blue Book)

The all-time site for those looking for the ultimate shopping experience

The Kelley Blue Book is a car buyer'southward best friend. Information technology provides authentic estimates on what your car is worth, how much y'all should pay for a used auto, and a deep selection of used and new car listings. You can browse top picks and tips, calculate a monthly motorcar payment, and compare several cars. Skilful and consumer reviews are also available, along with options for finding local dealers and checking your credit score. You can browse an assortment of awards pages, too, giving you a way to quickly peruse the best of the best.

Cars & Bids

The best sale site for enthusiasts

Launched by Doug DeMuro in the summer of 2020, Cars & Bids quickly became the become-to destination for enthusiasts looking to buy or sell a auto. If yous want a 2018 Corolla, you won't find it on this platform. If you're later something a picayune scrap more special, like a low-mileage Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG or a one-year-only BMW L6, the site has you covered. Each sale includes a full gallery of the car (including close-ups and service records when they're available) and a thorough description that highlights its main features, its ownership history, and its known flaws. Carfax is included likewise. Many sellers include videos, too, which takes some of the stress out of buying a car sight-unseen.

Auto-enthusiast forums

Although it's easy to search by make, model, and year using any of the aforementioned sites, there's no impairment in concentrating your search. If yous're looking for something specific, don't exist afraid to cheque out the online car owner and enthusiast groups associated with what you're seeking. If using Google, tack on "forums" or "owners club" to whichever vehicle you're searching for. Whether you're peddling vintage Porsches or cars from the late AMC brand, there'south a customs for almost every vehicle out there — even unloved ones. Browsing the classifieds section on these sites increases your chances of finding what you're looking for. Plus, most of the listings are from experts who not simply know what they are selling but are also invested in not getting a bad proper name in their respective communities.

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