Offline vs. Online Used-car Buying—Which is Better?

The used car market has changed dramatically in recent years. Choosing the best way to make a purchase has become more difficult as the number of options available has gone up tremendously. Today, you can buy your dream car either online through websites or in person at a dealership.
 
Here's all you need to know about different online car buying processes in India. 
 

Online vs. Offline Car Buying—Know the Difference?

 

• Cost

  The cost involved in both methods of used-car purchase is one of the defining factors. While making an online purchase, all you can do is follow the instructions and click on the icons and make payment, which means you are left with no room to negotiate the price. Even if the dealer/seller has provided contact information on their website, bargaining with a salesperson over the phone is practically difficult.
   
  Whereas when buying a car offline, you can easily negotiate the price and other benefits with the seller. If you are looking to buy a used car, the best alternative is to do so offline.
   

• Turnaround Time

  Online car purchase has an edge over offline buying in terms of turnaround time. Almost every car buyer knows the type of vehicle they want to purchase. They also have a clear idea of which dealer they want to buy from. So, in this situation, the customer needs to just visit the desired dealer's website, make a reservation, and wait a few days for their new car to arrive at their home.
   
  The same applies to a used car. Various renowned dealerships allow you to book the car of your choice online. Once you confirm the booking, you will receive the car in the next few days.
   
  Whereas in the offline process, you may need to visit the dealership multiple times, especially for price negotiation.
   

• Financing Options

  Every dealership/manufacturer has a tie-up with a financial institution for a new/used car loan. However, the financing options available to you online are limited.
   
  On the other hand, in the offline process, you may explore the options with various lenders available in the market and choose the one that offers low-interest used-car loans with favourable terms.
   

Also Read: Quick Guide on Pre-Owned Car Financing
 

Why Should I Buy a Used Car Online?

 

• Price Comparison

  The first aspect that makes the online car purchase a popular choice is price comparison. You can compare car prices on different car manufacturers' and dealerships' websites. You may also look at the other features such as an extended warranty and accessories that are included in the price.
   
  Various car aggregators provide extensive pricing comparisons on a single webpage to make things easy for you. You may also compare the cars' features on these websites.
   

• Better Research 

  As previously said, you can easily compare various car specifications on a single webpage. Some key things that you must compare are engine capacity and output, ARAI mileage, and cabin features. 
   
  You can also browse car expert reviews and customer testimonies on the Internet. By doing this, you can gather all the important information about the car's performance. You might also learn about the costs of servicing and maintenance.
   

• Filter Options

  Both aggregators and manufacturers provide filtering options on their websites. It can help you narrow your choices based on your budget, requirements, engine displacement, and other factors.
   

Why Should I Buy a Used-car Offline?

 

• Thorough Inspection

  If you are looking to buy a used car, it is best to do so offline because you can thoroughly inspect the car at a dealership. During the entire purchasing procedure, you may seek the assistance of an expert mechanic as well. Some of the key things to check during an inspection are dent, engine vibration, internal condition, and more. You should also check the car-related documents such as Registration Certificate (RC) paper, insurance papers, and more. 
   

• Expert Recommendations

  The dealership's salespeople and managers are experts in the field of automobiles. They can help you make an educated decision based on your needs.
   
  For example, if you are a traveller who wants to buy a used car solely to explore India's hidden beauties, they may assist you in selecting the best off-road vehicles. Similarly, if you require a vehicle for commuting from home to work, they can suggest vehicles with high mileage.
   

• Test Drive

  A test drive is another advantage of buying a used car offline. The best method to obtain an idea about the car's condition and performance is to take it for a test drive. You will learn about the mileage, engine leakage, and other details. Make sure you cover 10-15 kilometres on your test drive.
   

• Added Benefits

  When you buy a car offline, you have the opportunity to form a positive relationship with the dealer. You can take advantage of this relationship by requesting additional perks. For example, you might request an extended warranty, free servicing, a discount on additional accessories, and other benefits from the dealer.
   

• Negotiations

  In an offline purchase, there is enough room for negotiation. You can negotiate the car’s price based on its age, condition, and papers.
   

 

Few Other Things to Consider

 

• While deciding between these two options, do compare the additional benefits.

 

• Check if the car you are looking for is available online or offline.

 

• If you are buying a car offline, make sure it is from a reputable dealer or a manufacturer's used car outlet.

 
Also Read: A Really Helpful Checklist for Buying a Budget Second Hand Car
 

To Conclude

Online car-buying saves both your time and effort while also allowing you a detailed comparison. Whereas choosing the offline method gives you an edge in terms of better-negotiating power, the ability to test drive, an in-person inspection, and more.