There are many options when buying a used car. The most famous ones today April 24 2024 and I mention today’s date because they might change and some new ones might pop up and some will go out of business, like shift, which was an option back in 2022 but is no longer in business.
This in no way is a complete list of places to buy used cars but in our opinion the most popular. Remember we buy Junk Cars in Boston so if you’re going to buy a used car take your old plate with you when you go pick up your new car. It will save you a lot of money in the long run.
From:
Carvana,
Auto Trader
Edmunds
CarGurus
Craiglist
Facebook Marketplace
Truecar
Unfortunately, there’s no single “best” service overall when it comes to buying a used car. The ideal platform for you depends heavily on your priorities and preferences:
Here’s how to decide:
- If convenience is your top priority: Carvana is the clear winner. Its all-online process with delivery and a return policy makes it the easiest way to buy a used car.
- If finding the absolute cheapest deal is your goal: Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace have the potential for the lowest prices, but you’ll have to take on significant risk (scams) and do all the work yourself (inspections, negotiations, paperwork, etc.).
- If you want the widest selection: AutoTrader holds the crown with its massive inventory of used cars nationwide.
- If pricing transparency and analysis are important: CarGurus and TrueCar excel at providing data to help you decide whether a car’s price is fair in comparison to others on the market.
- If you value research and expert info: Edmunds is a great resource to learn about different vehicles and get in-depth information before starting your search.
A Hybrid Approach
Many people use multiple platforms during their car search:
- Start with research: Edmunds for model comparisons and reliable information.
- Price checking: Use CarGurus or TrueCar to see if the prices you find are reasonable.
- Search for potential cars: Use AutoTrader for its vast inventory and then consider comparing listings to Carvana (in case they carry the same model).
- Local Bargain Hunting: Only if you are up for the challenge, browse Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace with extreme caution.
Things to ALWAYS Remember:
- Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: No matter where you buy from, always have any used car inspected by an independent mechanic before purchase.
- Research sellers: Read reviews and look for red flags, especially on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.
Here’s a breakdown of the advantages of buying a used car from each platform, along with some things to consider:
Carvana
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Advantages:
- Convenience: Entire buying process can be done online, including delivery.
- “Vending Machine” pickup option: A unique and potentially fun way to get your car.
- 7-day return policy: Lets you test-drive the car at home and return it if you’re not happy.
- 100-day/4,189-mile warranty: Provides some peace of mind.
- No-haggle pricing: Reduces potential stress of negotiations.
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Considerations:
- Prices can be higher: You may pay more for the added convenience.
- Selection may be limited: Inventory is not as extensive as some larger marketplaces.
AutoTrader
-
Advantages:
- Massive selection: Huge inventory of used cars nationwide.
- Search filters: Easy to narrow down search by specific criteria (make, model, mileage, features, etc.).
- Price comparisons: Allows you to compare listings for similar vehicles.
- Direct contact with sellers: You can negotiate terms directly.
-
Considerations:
- Requires more effort: You’ll arrange test drives, inspections, and finalize the purchase yourself.
- Scams: Be aware of potential scams and vet sellers carefully.
Edmunds
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Advantages:
- Expert reviews and ratings: Helpful information for making informed decisions.
- Pricing tools: True Market Value (TMV) can help assess fairness of prices.
- Inventory search: Large selection of cars with a user-friendly search tool.
- Dealer network: Can connect you with dealers in your area.
-
Considerations:
- Not a direct buying platform: You’ll still need to contact sellers/dealerships to finalize a purchase.
CarGurus
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Advantages:
- Market value analysis: Provides insight into whether a car is priced fairly.
- Large inventory: Wide selection of used cars from various sellers.
- Transparency: Upfront about accident history and other details.
-
Considerations:
- Doesn’t facilitate the entire purchase process: You’ll need to finalize details with the seller independently.
Craigslist
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Advantages:
- Potential for great deals: You may find lower prices directly from private sellers.
- Local focus: Can search for cars in your specific area.
-
Considerations
- High risk of scams: Requires thorough vetting of sellers and vehicles.
- Inconsistent listings: Quality and detail of listings can vary greatly.
Facebook Marketplace
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Advantages:
- Community aspect: Potential to find deals from people in your network.
- Local focus: Helps you narrow down to sellers in your area.
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Considerations:
- Even higher scam risk: Extreme caution is important.
- Requires significant DIY legwork: You’re on your own for the entire process.
TrueCar
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Advantages:
- Pricing transparency: “Upfront Pricing” gives clear prices from local dealers
- Large dealer network: Can connect you with multiple dealerships for comparison
- Certified Dealers: Some dealers have additional qualifications designed to provide a smoother experience.
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Considerations:
- Still requires you to go to a dealership: The process isn’t fully online.
In Summary
- Most Convenient: Carvana
- Largest Selection: AutoTrader
- Best for Research: Edmunds
- Best Pricing Analysis: CarGurus
- Finding the Cheapest Deals (with high risk): Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace
- Pricing Transparency with Dealer Connection: TrueCar
