Are you looking to buy a car online? Skip the dealership and discover top platforms that make finding and purchasing your dream vehicle easy.
Our guide features the best sites for new, used, and classic cars, evaluated for user-friendliness, inventory, and search features. Many also have mobile apps for a seamless shopping experience.
Explore our recommendations for a hassle-free car-buying experience. Need to ship your new car? Check out our reliable transport services for smooth delivery.
Key Highlights
- Popular online car-buying sites include CarGurus, AutoTrader, Cars.com, TrueCar, and Hemmings, each known for its unique features and vehicle offerings.
- When selecting an online car-buying platform, consider key factors like user-friendliness, pricing transparency, and customer reviews. Each of these elements influences your overall satisfaction and experience.
- Be aware of potential subscription fees, geographical variations, and the specific pros and cons of each site to ensure it meets your needs effectively.
18 Best Car Buying Sites
Explore our list of the top 18 car-buying sites. Find out how these platforms work and get tips on shopping for your next vehicle online. Below, you’ll find detailed information, including ratings, reviews, pros and cons, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Cars.com
4.5
A+
Cars.com offers a comprehensive platform with many vehicle listings. Its robust search filters and detailed car information make it easy to find the right vehicle. The user interface is functional but could benefit from modernization.
- Emma R., August 2024: “Cars.com had a wide selection and detailed listings, which made finding the right car easy.”
- Jason T., July 2024: “The search filters were very helpful, though the site could use a design update.”
- Olivia S., June 2024: “Great variety of cars and straightforward interface.”
- Extensive inventory with a broad selection of cars available.
- Detailed vehicle information for comprehensive decision-making.
- Effective search filters to help you narrow down your choices efficiently.
- Outdated website design can impact user experience negatively.
- Some listings might be outdated or no longer available for purchase.
- The quality of sellers can vary, leading to inconsistent buying experiences.
Autotrader
4.2
A+
AutoTrader is known for its extensive inventory and easy-to-navigate website. It provides a broad range of vehicles but may have outdated listings and could improve its search filters.
- Sarah P., August 2024: “AutoTrader offers a vast selection of vehicles and a user-friendly interface.”
- John L., July 2024: “Good site for browsing, though the search filters could be improved.”
- Emily R., June 2024: “The site has a wide range of cars, but some listings were outdated.”
- A broad selection of new and used cars across various price ranges.
- Detailed search filters to find specific vehicle features.
- Extensive reviews and vehicle history reports are available.
- Listing accuracy may vary, requiring careful verification.
- The high volume of ads can make navigation overwhelming.
- Some listings may be outdated or inaccurate.
CarGurus
4.4
A+
CarGurus excels in providing price analysis and dealer ratings. Its tools help users evaluate car deals effectively, though the website could benefit from faster loading times.
- David M., August 2024: “CarGurus provided great insights into car values and dealer reputation.”
- Lisa W., July 2024: “The price analysis tools were helpful, but the site could load faster.”
- Nina K., June 2024: “Helpful for comparing prices and checking dealer ratings.”
- Offers a "Deal Rating" to help identify good value offers.
- User-friendly interface with easy search and filter options.
- Provides historical pricing trends and vehicle ratings.
- Some vehicle listings may be outdated or incorrect.
- Limited inventory compared to larger platforms.
- Dealer reviews might not always be comprehensive.
TrueCar
4⅗
A
TrueCar is known for its transparent pricing and strong dealer network. It offers tools for price comparison and is effective for finding deals, though its website design could be improved.
- Michael B., August 2024: “TrueCar offers a transparent pricing model and good dealer connections.”.
- Emily H., July 2024: “The price comparison tool was useful, but the site’s interface needs work.”
- Jacob F., June 2024: “Clear pricing information, though dealer interactions could be smoother.”
- Transparent pricing with TrueCar's "TruePrice" estimate.
- Direct connection with dealers for price negotiation.
- Provides market value reports and pricing trends.
- Limited to participating dealerships, reducing some inventory options.
- Pricing data can be inconsistent with local market conditions.
- Some users may find the TruePrice system confusing.
CarsDirect
4
A
CarsDirect offers a straightforward platform for purchasing vehicles with a focus on financing options. It’s user-friendly and provides various car choices, but its inventory and details may require additional verification.
- Nancy T., July 2024: “CarsDirect provided good financing options and vehicle choices.”
- Robert M., June 2024: “The site was easy to use, though I had to double-check some details.”
- Laura W., May 2024: “Helpful for finding cars, but the selection was not as broad as expected.”
- Financing Options: Accessible financing solutions for buyers.
- User-Friendly: Easy-to-navigate platform.
- Decent Selection: A variety of vehicles are available.
- Limited Inventory: Smaller selection compared to some competitors.
- Detail Verification Needed: Requires additional confirmation of details.
- Basic Features: Limited advanced search features.
Carfax
4.5
A+
Carfax is renowned for its comprehensive vehicle history reports. While it excels in providing detailed reports to verify a vehicle's background, its actual car listings are limited compared to other platforms.
- Megan R., August 2024: “Carfax’s vehicle history reports were very detailed and useful.”
- Tom B., July 2024: “Great for checking vehicle history, though it’s an additional cost.”
- Julie K., June 2024: “Helpful tool, but the site’s vehicle listings were limited.”
- Vehicle History Reports: Detailed and reliable history checks.
- Trusted Source: Established credibility in vehicle reporting.
- Verification Tool: Helps ensure the integrity of vehicle information.
- Limited Listings: Fewer vehicles are available for purchase.
- Additional Cost: Charges for history reports.
- Site Navigation: Some users find the site less intuitive.
Cars24
4.4
Not Rated
Cars24 focuses on buying and selling vehicles with a streamlined process for transactions. While it's effective for selling cars quickly, its selection of buying options might not be as extensive.
- Raj P., August 2024: “Cars24 made selling my car easy, though buying options were limited.”
- Anita S., July 2024: “Simple process for selling, but the inventory for buying was not extensive.”
- Mike H., June 2024: “Good for quick transactions, but less variety in buying options.”
- Quick Transactions: Efficient process for buying and selling.
- User-Friendly: Simplified transaction process.
- Competitive Offers: Good deals for sellers.
- Limited Buying Options: Less variety compared to other sites.
- Inventory Limitations: Smaller selection of vehicles.
- Site Navigation: Less intuitive for some users.
Vroom
4.3
B+
Vroom offers a seamless online car buying experience with a focus on customer service. While the purchasing process is generally smooth, there may be occasional delays in vehicle delivery and communication.
- Ella J., August 2024: “Vroom provided a smooth purchasing process with good customer service.”
- John D., July 2024: “The vehicle delivery was delayed, but the selection was decent.”
- Sarah K., June 2024: “Great for online purchasing, though communication could improve.”
- Efficient online buying process with home delivery options.
- Offers a 7-day return policy similar to Carvana.
- Provides a straightforward purchasing experience.
- Delivery delays can occur, impacting the buying experience.
- Communication issues may arise with customer service.
- No physical inspection of the vehicle before purchase.
Shift
4.4
A-
Shift focuses on delivering a user-friendly experience for buying used cars. The site offers a good selection and excellent customer service, though delivery times can be longer.
- Anna G., August 2024: “Shift provided a great selection of cars and a straightforward buying process.”
- Paul R., July 2024: “Good for buying used cars, though the delivery took longer than expected.”
- Rebecca L., June 2024: “Excellent customer service but some delays in getting the car delivered.”
- User-friendly interface for browsing used cars.
- Strong customer service with a supportive team.
- Good selection of used vehicles with detailed descriptions.
- Delivery times can sometimes be longer than expected.
- Inventory is limited to used cars only.
- Listings can vary in detail and accuracy.
Bring A Trailer
4.6
Not Rated
Bring A Trailer specializes in unique and collectible vehicles through an auction format. It's ideal for collectors and enthusiasts but may not cater to those seeking everyday cars.
- Mike S., August 2024:“Bring A Trailer has an excellent range of unique and collectible cars.”
- Jenny L., July 2024:“Great for rare finds, but the bidding process can be competitive.”
- Chris W., June 2024:“Perfect for collectors but might not be ideal for everyday cars.”
- Specializes in unique and collectible cars.
- The auction format allows for competitive pricing.
- Detailed listings with extensive vehicle information.
- The auction process can be competitive and challenging.
- Focused mainly on collectible and rare cars.
- Additional auction fees may apply.
eBay Motors
4.2
A+
Ebay Motors provides a wide range of vehicles through auctions and direct sales. It’s useful for finding deals but can sometimes have inconsistent listings and varying buyer protection.
- Karen T., August 2024: “Ebay Motors offers a broad range of vehicles and good auction options.”
- Matt R., July 2024: “The site is useful for finding deals, though some listings can be inconsistent.”
- Sophie L., June 2024: “Great for auctions, but buyer protection could be improved.”
- Extensive range of vehicles including auctions and direct sales.
- Opportunity to find good deals through bidding.
- Broad selection of vehicle types and conditions.
- Listing accuracy can be inconsistent.
- Buyer protection policies might be limited.
- Risks associated with auction purchases.
Edmunds
4.2
A+
Edmunds is a well-established site for car research, providing detailed reviews, pricing information, and buying advice. It's an excellent resource but can be complex for new users.
- Tom J., August 2024: “Edmunds offers excellent research tools and pricing information.”
- Linda B., July 2024: “Great for car reviews and buying advice, though the site can be overwhelming.”
- Peter W., June 2024: “Helpful for research, but the user interface could be simplified.”
- In-depth research tools for pricing and car reviews.
- Detailed comparisons between different models.
- Offers a comprehensive breakdown of car ownership costs.
- The site can be complex and overwhelming for new users.
- May require additional effort to find dealer inventory.
- Limited direct purchase options compared to other sites.
Kelley Blue Book
4.3
A+
Kelley Blue Book is a trusted source for vehicle pricing and value information. It’s highly useful for evaluating car worth but can be slow to update pricing data.
- James N., August 2024: “Kelley Blue Book is excellent for pricing information and vehicle values.”
- Rachel A., July 2024: “The site provides good market value insights but can be slow to update.”
- Brian C., June 2024: “Very useful for valuing cars, though the site could be more user-friendly.”
- The reliable source for vehicle valuations and pricing guides.
- Comprehensive information on new and used cars.
- Provides tools for estimating trade-in values.
- Focused more on valuation than on direct vehicle sales.
- A user interface can be outdated compared to newer sites.
- Limited inventory for direct purchase.
Hemmings
4.2
Not Rated
Hemmings specializes in classic and collectible cars. It’s ideal for enthusiasts looking for rare finds but may not cater to buyers interested in modern vehicles.
- Tom F., August 2024: “Hemmings is fantastic for classic car enthusiasts and rare finds.”
- Lucy M., July 2024: “Great site for classic cars, but not ideal for modern vehicles.”
- Carl G., June 2024: “Perfect for finding vintage cars, though the selection is niche.”
- Focused on classic and collectible cars.
- Detailed listings for enthusiasts and rare finds.
- An excellent resource for vintage car buyers.
- Limited selection of modern vehicles.
- The niche market may not appeal to general buyers.
- Higher prices for classic cars can be a barrier.
Carvana
4.1
B
- James P., August 2024: “Carvana made buying a car online easy with a straightforward process.”
- Emily T., July 2024: “Good for online purchases, but delivery was slower than expected.”
- Daniel B., June 2024: “Convenient online shopping, though customer service could be improved.”
- A fast and efficient process for selling cars.
- Convenient for quick sales with minimal hassle.
- Simple to use for sellers.
- Limited options for buying vehicles.
- Primarily focused on sellers, not buyers.
- Less inventory for those looking to purchase.
Peddle
4.2
Not Rated
Peddle focuses on buying and selling used cars quickly. It’s great for selling but doesn’t offer many options for buying vehicles.
- David L., August 2024: “Peddle was efficient for selling my old car, but buying options were limited.”
- Laura M., July 2024: “Good for quick sales, though it doesn’t offer much for buying.”
- Sam K., June 2024: “Great for selling vehicles, but less ideal for purchasing.”
- Fast process for selling cars with minimal hassle.
- Streamlined and straightforward selling experience.
- User-friendly platform for sellers.
- Not ideal for those looking to purchase vehicles.
- Primarily designed for sellers, not buyers.
- Not ideal for those looking to purchase vehicles.
Craigslist
4.0
Not Rated
Craigslist is a popular platform for local car sales with a wide range of listings. However, users should be cautious of potential scams and thoroughly inspect vehicles before purchase.
- Sarah W., August 2024: “Craigslist is great for local deals but requires careful inspection of listings.”
- Tom S., July 2024: “Good for finding deals but be cautious about scams.”
- Lisa T., June 2024: “Useful for local transactions but needs better listing verification.”
- Local Deals: Find vehicles close to home.
- Wide Range of Listings: Diverse selection.
- Direct Transactions: Negotiate directly with sellers.
- Scams: Higher risk of fraudulent listings.
- Listing Verification: Requires careful checking.
- Limited Protection: Minimal buyer protection.
RelayCars.com
4
A+
RelayCars offers a unique virtual reality experience for viewing vehicles, allowing buyers to explore cars in 360 degrees. While it’s great for getting a feel for the vehicle, it does not facilitate transactions.
- Olivia J., August 2024: “Great tool for virtual car tours, though it doesn’t handle transactions directly.”
- Liam C., July 2024: “Helpful for visualizing cars, but you’ll need to use another platform for buying.”
- Sophia R., June 2024: “Innovative virtual reality feature, but lacks direct purchasing options.”
- Immersive virtual reality tours for detailed vehicle exploration.
- User-friendly interface for visualizing different car models.
- Innovative tool for enhancing the car-buying experience.
- Does not support direct vehicle transactions or purchases.
- Limited to virtual tours without additional buying features.
- Requires users to use other platforms for final purchases.
The Advantages of Buying Cars Online
When purchasing a new car, online car-buying tools can greatly reduce stress and uncertainty by helping you quickly find, verify, and compare your options.
These tools compile data from multiple sources, such as dealerships, manufacturers, and consumer reviews, enabling you to make well-informed decisions based on your specific needs and preferences.
By offering detailed insights on pricing, vehicle history, and customer feedback, these platforms provide an unbiased approach, helping you confidently navigate the entire car-buying process from start to finish.
Tips for a Successful Online Car-Buying Experience
Navigating the world of online car shopping can be exciting, but being well-prepared is essential to make the most of it. Follow these key steps for a successful online car-buying experience:
1. Research the Right Makes and Models
Start by researching different makes and models that suit your lifestyle, needs, and budget. Use comparison tools to evaluate vehicle specifications, features, and pricing. Don’t forget to read owner reviews to gain insights into real-world performance and reliability.
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, use online car-buying platforms to search for available cars in your area. These platforms often include photos, descriptions, and vehicle history reports, which are crucial for assessing a car’s condition and value.
Before making a purchase, it’s important to secure financing options. Many online platforms offer financing calculators or loan pre-approval tools to help you determine your budget and available options.
Even when buying online, there is room for negotiation. Be prepared to negotiate aspects such as the final price, warranties, and additional fees, like delivery or documentation charges.
Before finalizing the deal, arrange for a pre-purchase inspection to ensure the vehicle’s condition matches the listing. If possible, schedule a test drive, especially if the car is local, to confirm it meets your expectations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right platform for buying a car online can greatly improve your experience. Each site offers unique benefits, from large inventories and transparent pricing to options for classic and collectible vehicles. Whether you want a simple transaction or detailed vehicle insights, there’s a platform for your needs. Explore these top-rated sites, consider your preferences, and make an informed choice for a smooth car-buying process. If you need vehicle shipping, our recommended transport services provide reliable delivery for your new car.
