Not Sure Whether Virtual Car Shopping Is For You? Here’s The Pros And Cons…

Thanks to tech advances, visiting a dealership for ‘new car shopping’ isn’t as essential as it once was. With 360-degree photography, virtual reality showrooms, and live, personalised video, you can get a pretty good feeling for your desired car without even leaving the house.

It’s no wonder online car shopping is a growing trend, with 30% of all buyers saying they’ll make their next vehicle purchase entirely online, but is it right for you? While buying a car online offers many advantages, there are some downsides to consider too, In this article we’re looking at the pros and cons of online car shopping; so you can decide whether it suits your needs. First though, let’s take a look at some of the basics:

What Car Finance Is Available Online?

Online shopping still offers the same financing options as buying from a manufacturer or dealership; you may even find some have exclusive online offers.

As always, it pays to do your research thoroughly and only choose a financing option that is suitable for your needs and circumstances.

What Rights Do I Have When Buying A Car Online?

Buying from an online dealership effectively offers you the same rights as buying face-to-face. 

Under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 you have the right to cancel your car purchase within 14 days. 

However, It’s worth noting that whilst buying online from a private seller offers the same rights as buying face-to-face, those rights differ slightly from those of a dealership. Money Helper has more information on this.

The Pros of Buying a Car Online

More Convenience

One of the biggest draws of online car shopping is convenience. You can browse hundreds of makes and models, compare prices, and read reviews; all from the comfort of your own home. There’s no need to visit multiple dealerships or spend your weekends wandering forecourts.

Plus, with detailed filters on most car sales websites, you can narrow down your search by everything from price to mileage, engine size, and even colour.

If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, online shopping is a good way to get some inspiration, maybe starting your search by narrowing your budget rather than car make and model!

If you’re still unsure what sort of car to look for, take a look at our complete car buying guide.

Access to a Wider Range of Cars

Local dealerships can only offer what they have in stock. Online, you have access to cars from all over the country, including rare models or specific specs that might not be available near you. Whether it’s a limited-edition sports car or a family-friendly SUV in a specific colour, you’ve got a better chance of finding it online.

Our top tip: If you are visiting a dealership with something specific in mind, don’t be afraid to ask. Whilst they don’t offer an endless list of cars, some dealers (particularly franchises or chains) may be able to source a close alternative through their network.

Transparent Pricing

Many online platforms provide upfront pricing, which means you’re less likely to encounter the dreaded haggling process. Some websites even show you how the price compares to market value, helping you feel confident you’re getting a fair deal.

Door-to-Door Delivery

Many online car retailers now offer delivery services. Once you’ve made your purchase, the car is delivered directly to your home. It’s a hassle-free way to get your new vehicle without stepping foot in a showroom.

Some online platforms also offer trial periods, allowing you to return the car within a set timeframe if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

The Cons of Buying a Car Online

No Test Drive

One of the biggest downsides to online car shopping is the inability to take the car for a spin before you commit. A test drive can reveal quirks or potential issues that you might not notice just by reading a description or looking at photos.

While some online platforms allow test drives upon delivery, this isn’t always an option. If you’re someone who values experiencing the car firsthand, this could be a deal-breaker.

Hidden Surprises

Although most reputable online platforms offer detailed listings and high-quality images, there’s always a risk that the car may not be exactly as advertised. Descriptions might gloss over minor damage, or photos could be strategically taken to hide imperfections.

To avoid surprises, always look for platforms that offer inspection reports or third-party certifications. You can also request a personalised video tour of the car to put your mind at ease; any reputable seller will be happy to do this.

Limited Negotiation Opportunities

When buying a car in person, there’s often room to negotiate on price, extras, or trade-in value. Online, pricing tends to be fixed, with less flexibility to haggle.

While this transparency can be a positive, it might leave you feeling like you’ve missed out on potential savings, especially if you’re confident in negotiating.

Delivery Delays

While home delivery is convenient, it’s not always instant. Depending on the seller’s location and logistics, you might face a waiting period before your new car arrives. If you’re in urgent need of a vehicle, this delay could be frustrating.

It’s worth noting however that, if you’re buying a new car (instead of a used one) from a dealership you may also face this issue, so it’s worth checking lead times from manufacturers either way.

For instance, a Hynadai i10 has a lead time of under 3 months, whereas a Volvo XC90 has a waitlist at 5 months; something to consider before you buy.

Lack of Personal Interaction & Advice

For some people, buying a car is as much about the experience as it is about the car itself. Chatting with sales staff, asking questions, and getting a feel for the dealership’s vibe can all add to the excitement. Good salespeople understand that it’s about matching the right car with the right people and, contrary to historic belief, they are actually there to help you find the best option for you.

Buying online removes this personal touch, which might make the process feel transactional rather than memorable, as well as reducing your chances of receiving some expert advice.

Tips for Buying A Car Online

If you’re leaning toward buying a car online, here are a few ways to ensure a smooth experience:

• Research the Platform: Stick to well-known, reputable websites with good reviews and buyer protection policies.
• Read the Fine Print: Understand the terms of sale, including return policies, warranties, and delivery fees.
• Ask for Extras: Some online retailers offer extras like free servicing or extended warranties; don’t hesitate to ask!
• Consider an Inspection: If possible, arrange for an independent inspection before finalising your purchase.
• Stay Realistic: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Our Final Word

Buying a car online can be an incredibly convenient and efficient way to secure your next vehicle, especially if you value transparency and a wide selection. However, it’s not without its challenges; especially not being able to physically see and ‘feel’ the car beforehand.

In our opinion though, we wouldn’t let it put us off buying online. These days, dealerships, whether online or off, are all looking to build a good reputation, with consumers ever more savvy, meaning there’s no room to hide. With that in mind, as long as you stick to reputable websites, we’re pretty confident you’ll find a car you’re happy with, without having to venture outside.

As awlays, take your time, do your research and have a thorough understanding of what you’re looking for in your next car.

We’d love to hear your expereince with buying online. Drop Luke a message on socail meda and tell us your story. Don’t forget to share this article with your network if you’ve found it useful.