Shopping for a vehicle online has never been easier — but it’s not without its potential pitfalls.
If you’re not careful, a few missteps can turn a smooth process into a bumpy ride. Below are some
of the most common mistakes people make when buying a vehicle online — and how you can avoid them.
#1: Not Doing the Research
You check the ingredients on chips and read reviews for restaurants, so why rely on guesswork when
shopping for a vehicle? You’ll want to make sure you study up on both the vehicle you’re looking for and
the person or place selling it. When researching the vehicle itself, check for common issues associated with
that make and model, see how it holds its value, and make sure it fits your lifestyle. AI is a great tool for this
– for example, just ask something along the lines of “What should I watch out for on a 2021 Honda Civic?”
And, before you commit, consider researching the seller to make sure they’re legit. Private sellers can be
hard to verify. Whoever you’re purchasing your used vehicle from, make sure they can be trusted.
#2: Falling for “Too Good To Be True” Prices
Found a luxury SUV for $3,000? That’s a red flag. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Some
sellers hide fees, or worse…they don’t even have the vehicle. Don’t get scammed or swindled – shop
somewhere that’s honest and transparent about cost.
#3: Forgetting to Ask for a Vehicle History Report
This one’s a biggie. A vehicle might look perfect from the outside, but it could be hiding a not-so-perfect
past. Consider asking for a history report to check for previous accidents, flood damage, or title issues.
#4: Overlooking Return Policies
If you've ever shopped for anything online, you know that not every purchase is a keeper – vehicles
included. If you buy from someone who has strict restrictions on returns or worse, doesn’t offer them
at all, you’re gambling with your purchase.
#5: Forgoing a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Thinking about buying from a private seller or a site like eBay or Craigslist? Consider getting a trusted
mechanic to do a pre-purchase inspection—it could save you from costly surprises down the road.
#6: Not Taking a Test Drive
Photos can’t tell you if the seat feels right or if the handling of the vehicle fits your style. A test drive is
still one of the best ways to know if a vehicle is “the one.” Be wary of sellers who try to convince you
that this isn’t a worthwhile step.
#7: Skipping Financing Preparation
Figuring out financing at the last minute is a recipe for stress. Knowing your budget ahead of time helps
you shop smarter and avoid overextending your wallet. Now that you know what to watch out for, you're
one step closer to a smarter, more confident buying experience. Browse our current selection of used
vehicles and discover why shopping online with Penske Automotive Group is the easy, trusted choice.
Click here to discover the closest dealership near you.
Modified article credit: carshop.com