How to Spot a Great Deal When Buying a Car Online

Buying a car online can feel like searching for treasure; there are hidden gems out there, but plenty of traps too. One minute, you're scrolling through listings, convinced you've found the perfect vehicle at a steal, and the next, you're wondering if it's too good to be true. With so many deals floating around, how do you separate the bargains from the bad calls?

Knowing how to spot a genuine bargain can mean the difference between driving away happy and facing costly surprises down the road. But you don’t need to be a car expert to make a smart decision; all it takes is the right knowledge and a keen eye for detail. Just stick with us, and we'll show you how to find the best deals online. By the end, you will be ready to make an informed choice, secure in the knowledge that you have found a great deal, not just a great offer.

What’s Inside:

• 2024 Australian Car Market Trends: Key Insights for Online Buyers
• Advantages of Buying a Car Online
• New vs. Used Cars: Which Is Better Online?
• How to Spot a Great Deal When Buying a Car Online?
• Find the Best Deals with Motor Matcher

2024 Australian Car Market Trends: Key Insights for Online Buyers

When buying a car online in Australia, it Is important to get a sense of the overall market trends. Knowing which brands are leading the charge can help you spot a great deal, especially when looking for popular and in-demand models.

In 2024, Australia's car market saw a total of 1,237,287 new vehicles sold, a solid 1.7% increase from the previous year. Toyota, as always, dominated the scene, but there were a few interesting shifts in the rankings that you might want to consider when browsing for your next car.

However, other brands like Ford and Mitsubishi are gaining ground. Ford climbed to second place, surpassing Mazda, while Mitsubishi made a strong move into the top five, indicating a growing presence in the Australian market.

Advantages of Buying a Car Online

Buying a car online has never been easier, and it comes with plenty of perks. Instead of spending hours at dealerships, you can browse, compare, and even purchase a vehicle from the comfort of your own home.

Here are some key advantages of buying a car online:

Convenience

Forget spending weekends driving from dealership to dealership. Shopping online allows you to browse, compare, and even purchase a car from the comfort of your couch, at any time that suits you.

Wider Selection

Online platforms connect you to a vast selection of vehicles, including options that may not be available at your local dealership. This increases your chances of finding the perfect car that meets your needs and budget.

Transparent Pricing

Many online car-buying platforms provide upfront pricing, eliminating the stress of haggling. You can easily compare prices across different sellers and find the best deal without the pressure of in-person negotiations.

No Pushy Salespeople

One of the biggest benefits of online car shopping is avoiding high-pressure sales tactics. You can take your time researching and choosing a car without feeling rushed or persuaded into something you are not sure about.

Easy Access to Reviews

When buying a used car, you can check vehicle history reports, owner reviews, and expert ratings online. This helps you make an informed decision and avoid potential issues down the road.

Home Delivery Options

Many online car retailers and dealerships now offer home delivery, meaning your new vehicle can be brought straight to your doorstep. This saves you time and effort, making the entire process seamless.

New vs. Used Cars: Which Is Better Online?

If you are looking to buy a car online, you are probably weighing up whether to go for a brand-new car or a used one. Both have their pros and cons, and the best choice really depends on your budget, lifestyle, and what you are after in a car. 

Buying a Car Online: New Cars

There is something special about a brand-new car. But beyond the emotional appeal, buying new also comes with:

• Warranty and reliability- New cars come with a full manufacturer’s warranty, meaning fewer worries about unexpected repairs. Plus, everything is in top shape, with no wear and tear.
• Latest features and technology- If you love having cutting-edge safety features, fuel efficiency, and the latest in-car entertainment, a new car is the way to go.
• Better finance and incentives- Dealers often offer low-interest financing or cashback deals on new models, making them more affordable in the long run.
• Higher cost and depreciation- The biggest downside? New cars lose value fast, typically around 20–30% in the first year. Plus, you will be paying a premium compared to a used model.

Buying a Car Online: Used Cars

Going for a second-hand car can save you heaps of money, but there are some things to consider. Here’s what makes used cars appealing:

• Lower price and slower depreciation- Someone else has already taken the big depreciation hit, so you get more value for your money.
• More car for your budget- With the same amount of money, you might be able to get a higher-end model or extra features that would be out of reach if buying new.
• Cheaper insurance- Insurance costs are usually lower for used cars, as their market value is less than new ones.
• Potential for hidden issues- Not knowing the full history of the car can be risky, and some used cars may come with mechanical problems.

So which is better? It really depends on your needs. If you want peace of mind, the latest features, and don’t mind paying extra, a new car is the better option. But if you are looking for the best value and are happy to do a bit of research, a used car could be the smarter financial decision.

How to Spot a Great Deal When Buying a Car Online?

But how do you know you are getting a great deal and not just a cleverly marketed lemon? Here’s what to look for when hunting for your next car online:

Understand the Market Value

Start by researching the fair market value of the vehicle you are interested in. Use resources like price comparison tools and vehicle history reports to gather data on similar models in your area. This will help you measure whether a listing price is reasonable or inflated.

Look for Transparency

A great deal isn’t just about price, it is about trust. The best sellers provide clear, detailed descriptions and high-quality photos of the car from multiple angles.

Check the Vehicle History

If you are buying second-hand, always check the vehicle history report. Services like the Personal Property Securities Register can tell you if the car has been written off, stolen, or has outstanding finance. A seller who refuses to provide this info? Big red flag.

Ask for a Pre-Purchase Inspection

If you buy from a private seller or even a dealer, request an independent mechanic’s inspection before committing. Mobile mechanics or services can check the car and give you peace of mind.

Check for Added Costs

Some deals look great until you factor in additional costs. If you are buying from a dealer, check for added fees like stamp duty, transfer fees, and extended warranties. If you are buying from interstate, factor in transport costs.

Read the Fine Print

For new cars, check the contract for hidden fees, on-road costs, and warranty terms. If you are buying used from a dealer, understand their return policy.

Find the Best Deals with Motor Matcher

Don’t let the stress of car shopping get to you, Motor Matcher is here to help you spot the best deals with ease. With our intuitive platform, you can easily compare listings, find trusted dealers, and uncover offers that meet your budget and needs.

Take the first step towards owning your dream car today. Hop onto Motor Matcher and start browsing for deals that tick all the boxes. Your next car is waiting for you.