Finding the perfect used car has never been easier, thanks to various online platforms that provide a simple and convenient experience for car shoppers. In this article, we’ll explore the best-used car websites, highlighting their unique features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you are searching for a budget-friendly sedan or a rare classic, these sites offer extensive inventories and advanced tools. Once you’ve found your ideal car, Sherpa Auto Transport can handle the logistics, ensuring your new ride is delivered right to your doorstep.
Key Takeaways
- When considering a used car purchase, first determine your budget and the type of vehicle that meets your needs. We then recommend comparing prices and features across multiple platforms.
- We evaluated popular used car websites based on their industry reputation, platform, pricing, inventory, and customer satisfaction.
- Based on Sherpa’s research, CarMax, Cars.com, CarGurus, AutoTrader, and eBay Motors are the five best-used car websites.
- After you buy a used car, Sherpa Auto Transport can deliver your newly purchased vehicle anywhere in the nation.
In This Review:
- Things to Consider When Buying a Used Car
- Best Online Used Car Buying Sites
- Why Should I Buy a Used Car?
- How to Ship a Used Car
- Used Car FAQs
- Sherpa’s Best Used Car Site Methodology
Things to Consider When Buying a Used Car
Choosing the right used car involves carefully considering various factors to ensure you make a smart investment. Start by defining your budget and the type of vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s a fuel-efficient compact car or a spacious SUV. Determine your ideal monthly payment and read consumer reviews. We also recommend shopping the most reliable used car brands.
It’s also essential to compare prices across different platforms to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. According to a study by Edmunds, used car prices can vary significantly based on factors like age, mileage, and condition.
Best Online Used Car Buying Sites
The internet has revolutionized how we buy used cars, making it easier than ever to find the perfect vehicle without visiting your local dealer. With numerous websites dedicated to used car sales, you can browse extensive inventories, compare prices, and read reviews in one place.
These platforms offer a range of features designed to streamline the car-buying process, from advanced search filters to comprehensive vehicle history reports. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best online used car buying sites, detailing their pros and cons to help you choose the right platform for your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly commuter or a rare classic, these websites provide the tools and resources to find your perfect car.
CarMax
CarMax, a well-respected platform known for its no-haggle pricing and comprehensive support for buyers and sellers, offers a wide variety of vehicles and guarantees a hassle-free experience,
Because of its transparent pricing model and high customer experience ratings, Sherpa rates CarMax the Best Overall Used Car Site.
- Pros:
- Transparent, no-haggle pricing
- Wide variety of vehicles
- Guaranteed offer for sellers
- Excellent customer service
- Cons:
- Higher prices compared to some other platforms
- Limited negotiation opportunities
Cars.com
Cars.com offers extensive listings from various dealers, detailed reviews, and robust tools for buyers. Sherpa names Cars.com as our pick for the Most User-Friendly Site.
- Pros:
- Extensive inventory
- Comprehensive car reviews
- Price comparison tools
- User-friendly interface
- Cons:
- Some listings may lack detailed information
- Can be overwhelming due to the large volume of listings
CarGurus
Known for its price transparency and dealer reviews, CarGurus is an excellent choice for fair deals and comprehensive information. CarGurus is our pick for Best for Online Buyers.
- Pros:
- Price transparency
- Extensive dealer reviews
- User-friendly platform
- Robust search tools
- Cons:
- Ads can be intrusive
- Some listings may not be updated frequently
- No longer offers private sales
AutoTrader
AutoTrader is a comprehensive and user-friendly platform with advanced search options and detailed reviews. The site connects buyers with a wide variety of dealers. AutoTrader is our pick for Best Search Functionality.
- Pros:
- Extensive inventory
- Detailed car reviews and buying guides
- Advanced search options
- Transparent pricing
- Cons:
- Some features require a subscription
- Listings can sometimes be outdated
eBay Motors
eBay Motors is a trusted platform for online car auctions, offering a wide variety of vehicles and flexible purchasing options. eBay Motors is our pick for Best Car Auction Site.
- Pros:
- Wide variety of vehicles
- Auction and Buy It Now options
- Buyer protection features
- Transparent fee structure
- Cons:
- Auction process can be competitive
- Additional fees for listing and buying
TrueCar
TrueCar, known for its transparent pricing and market analysis, connects buyers with certified dealers to ensure a fair buying process. We were also impressed by TrueCar’s electric vehicle resources, meeting the needs of the modern online car buyer.
- Pros:
- Transparent pricing
- Certified dealer network
- Price analysis tools
- User-friendly interface
- Cons:
- Limited to participating dealers
- Some users report aggressive dealer follow-ups
Carvana
Carvana offers an entirely online car-buying experience, with features like home delivery and a seven-day return policy, making it a popular choice for convenience.
- Pros:
- Home delivery
- Seven-day return policy
- User-friendly online platform
- No-haggle pricing
- Cons:
- Limited to Carvana’s inventory
- Prices can be higher due to added convenience
Edmunds
Edmunds is a well-respected resource for car reviews and pricing guides, helping buyers make informed decisions. We rate Edmunds as Best Research Site.
- Pros:
- Detailed car reviews and buying guides
- Price comparison tools
- User-friendly platform
- Extensive research tools
- Cons:
- Not primarily a marketplace
- Limited direct purchasing options
CarsDirect
CarsDirect offers direct-to-consumer car sales and financing, known for its straightforward pricing and user-friendly platform.
- Pros:
- Transparent pricing
- Financing options available
- User-friendly interface
- Extensive buying guides
- Cons:
- Limited support for sellers
- Inventory can vary
Hemmings
Hemmings is a niche platform specializing in classic and collector cars, offering a unique selection for enthusiasts. We rated Hemmings as the Best for Classic Car Purchases.
- Pros:
- Specializes in classic and collector cars
- Enthusiast community
- Comprehensive vehicle details
- Cons:
- Limited to classic and collector cars
- Smaller inventory compared to general platforms
AutoTempest
AutoTempest aggregates listings from multiple sites, providing buyers with a comprehensive search experience. However, it’s important to note that AutoTempest is an aggregator and not a direct marketplace, so buyers and sellers are referred elsewhere to complete their purchases.
- Pros:
- Aggregates listings from multiple sources
- Comprehensive search options
- User-friendly interface
- Free to use
- Cons:
- Limited to search and comparison
- Not a direct marketplace
EdgePipeline
EdgePipeline is a platform designed for dealers and auction houses, offering a specialized tool for industry professionals.
- Pros:
- Specialized for dealers and auctions
- Advanced search options
- Detailed vehicle information
- Professional network
- Cons:
- Not ideal for individual buyers or sellers
- Requires registration and membership
Craigslist
Craigslist is a popular classifieds site known for its free listings but often associated with scams and low trust.
- Pros:
- Free to use
- Wide variety of listings
- Simple interface
- Local transactions
- Cons:
- High risk of scams
- Limited support and security features
- Basic interface
Why Should I Buy a Used Car?
Buying a used car offers several advantages over purchasing a new one, with cost savings being one of the most significant benefits. On average, new cars depreciate about 20% in the first year of ownership and approximately 60% after five years.
This depreciation means that used cars can be significantly cheaper than new cars, allowing you to get more value for your money. According to Edmunds, the average new car price in 2023 was around $47,000, while the average used car price was approximately $27,000.
In addition to the lower purchase price, used cars also tend to have lower insurance premiums and registration fees, further reducing your overall expenses. Another advantage is the wider selection of makes and models available within your budget, including discontinued models and rare finds.
Bankrate highlights that used cars often come with added benefits, such as lower sales taxes and the ability to avoid specific fees that new cars incur.
These cost savings, combined with the reduced depreciation, make buying a used car a financially savvy choice for many consumers.
References:
- Edmunds. “Buying a New Car vs. Buying a Used Car“
- Consumer Reports. “What’s So Great About Used Cars? ”
- Bankrate. “New vs. used car value: Navigating the current car market“
How to Ship a Used Car
Purchasing a used car online is just the first step in getting your new vehicle home. Sherpa Auto Transport makes the process of shipping your used car purchase straightforward and hassle-free.
We provide efficient, reliable, and secure transportation solutions to bridge the gap between online car purchases and physical delivery. Here’s how to ship your used car with Sherpa Auto Transport and why we are the best choice for your auto transport needs:
- Request a Free Quote: Start by obtaining a quick and transparent quote through our instant quote tool or by speaking with one of our experts over the phone. We offer a variety of solutions tailored to meet your unique needs, including open trailers for most car buyers and enclosed trailers for classic or high-end vehicles.
- Secure Transportation: Once you’ve locked in your shipment, our dedicated team assigns a top-notch carrier to transport your vehicle. We only work with reputable carriers, prioritizing safety and timely delivery.
- Top-Notch Communication: Throughout the shipping process, we provide frequent and transparent updates to keep you informed as your vehicle reaches its final destination.
- Door-to-Door Service: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up and deliver as close to the specified addresses as possible.
Choosing Sherpa Auto Transport offers unparalleled convenience, time-saving benefits, reduced wear and tear on your vehicle, and cost-effective solutions. Our commitment to customer support, safety, and security, along with our industry-leading customer reviews and A+ accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, makes Sherpa the #1 choice for online car buyers.
Entrust your newly purchased vehicle to us, and enjoy a seamless and stress-free auto transport experience.
Used Car FAQs
How Much Can I Save by Buying a Used Car?
According to Bankrate, buying a used car model can save several thousand dollars. In addition, you can expect to save on insurance rates, titling fees, and sales taxes. However, you should consider the increased maintenance costs required for the upkeep of your used car.
Reference: https://www.bankrate.com/loans/auto-loans/do-i-buy-new-or-used/#new
Is it Hard to Find a Used Car?
Finding a used car can be easier than you might think, thanks to many online platforms that simplify the process. Websites like Carvana, CarMax, TrueCar, and others offer extensive inventories, advanced search filters, and detailed vehicle descriptions, making it straightforward to find the right car for your needs.
Additionally, these platforms often provide vehicle history reports and customer reviews, which help you make informed decisions. While finding the perfect used car may take some time and research, the convenience and resources available online make it much more manageable.
How Can I Ship a Used Car?
Shipping a used car is simple with Sherpa Auto Transport. Start by requesting a free quote through our instant quote tool or by speaking with one of our experts. We provide a variety of auto transport solutions to meet your needs and your budget.
How Many Miles Is Too Many for a Used Car?
Generally, a well-maintained car can last well over 100,000 miles and still be a reliable option. However, once a car reaches around 150,000 miles, it may require more frequent maintenance and repairs. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average car on the road today is over 12 years old and has approximately 150,000 miles.
Ultimately, it’s crucial to review the vehicle’s history report, obtain a pre-purchase inspection, and consider how the car has been driven and maintained to determine if the mileage is reasonable for your needs.
Sherpa’s Best Used Car Site Methodology
We used five criteria to evaluate the Best Used Car Sites:
- Industry Reputation – Sites that have a strong overall standing in the industry are rated more favorably. We considered years in the industry, BBB rating, and overall reputation
- Platform – We evaluated the platform’s features and ease of use. We also considered if the platform was open to all users.
- Pricing – We evaluated the site’s pricing, favoring transparent pricing structures. We also considered listing fees or premium services.
- Inventory – We evaluated both the quantity and variety of vehicles on the platform.
- Customer Experience—We reviewed the support available for both buyers and sellers and read online customer reviews to evaluate their sentiment towards the platform.