How to Search for a Used Car Online

Searching for a used car online means you don't have to spend hours visiting car dealers or searching the classified ads in your local paper trying to get the best deal on the car that you want. Sites such as Kelley Blue Book can help you find the current value for any make and model of car, and if you decide to buy, sites like CarsDirect and MyCar can give you further information and help you get in touch with sellers.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access

Instructions

1. Navigate to a site that sells used cars (check the Resources section of this article for suggested sites).

2. Click the Used Car link on the home page (usually located on a menu bar at the top of the page) to start searching.

3. Follow the site's search directions. This will involve selecting a make, model, year, trim and accessories options. You'll also need to enter your zip code or state to focus search results to your location.

4. Review your search results. Select cars that you want to take a look at by clicking individual links.

5. Compare cars in your search results by placing a check mark in the box beside each car, then clicking the Compare button (note that not all sites offer this feature).

6. Check Kelly Blue Book or another evaluative site to find out the value of the car you're interested in before contacting the seller.

Tips & Warnings

• Used car evaluations at the Kelley Blue Book Web site take into account the condition of the car. When you search for a particular make and model of car at this site with a view to buying a similar car, write down the values for each condition category. This way when you see for yourself what kind of condition the car you're buying is in, you can refer to your notes to see how the seller's asking price compares to the evaluation.

• Many auto-trading sites offer special features if you register as a site member. This is usually free and it only requires that you submit your name, an e-mail address and perhaps your zip code for personal information. Features may include saving your searches and saving cars to a "wish list" that you can refer to later.

• Note that most sites do not actually sell cars-they provide a place for buyers and sellers to meet but they do not take any part in transactions. CarsDirect is one of the few sites where you can buy both new and used cars. You can also get free VIN checks and credit reports at CarsDirect.

• Listed prices do not usually include sales tax and additional charges such as registration, finance, license and title fees.

Resources

• GreenCar.com for info on used hybrids
• Research Sports Cars on RSportsCars