Online used car buying is becoming a big trend in Canada. And online-only car dealerships promise to make the whole process super easy, offering tons of vehicles with just a click. But is the convenience really worth the risks? Let’s break it down.
What Are Online Used Car Dealerships?
These dealerships skip the physical showroom entirely. Instead, everything happens online, all from your phone or computer. Companies like Clutch and Canada Drives even deliver the car to your door and offer return options if things don’t work out.
The Convenience Factor of Online Used Car Dealerships
- More Options – Online platforms often have way more inventory than traditional dealerships. You can check out a huge variety of cars from all over Canada, all without leaving your home.
- Save Time – No need to spend hours driving from dealership to dealership. With search filters, you can quickly find exactly what you’re looking for.
- Flexible Returns – Many platforms offer trial periods or easy returns, so you can test out the car before fully committing.
The Potential Risks of Online Used Car Dealerships
- No Hands-On Inspection – The biggest downside? You can’t see the car in person before buying. Photos and videos are great, but they might not show everything, like small dents or potential mechanical issues.
- Wait Times – Unlike in-person purchases, you’ll have to wait for the car to be delivered.
- Surprise Repairs – Sometimes, the car you get might not be exactly what you expected. Hidden mechanical issues could lead to extra costs down the road.
How To Stay Safe?
Want to avoid those risks? Use a service like Greasemonkey Inspectors for a pre-purchase inspection. (We check over 300 points on the vehicle and give you a detailed report.)
Also Read: What to search for when looking for used car for sale Canada.
Final Thoughts – Is It Worth It?
Online-only used car dealerships in Canada make car shopping super convenient. You save time, get plenty of options, and can shop from the comfort of your couch. But it’s not without its risks.
The best approach? Combine the ease of online buying with a professional vehicle inspection, like the ones from Greasemonkey Inspectors. That way, you get the best of both worlds. If you’re in the market for a used car, this could be the smartest way to shop!