The options to purchase a car have dramatically shifted over the past few years and now enable drivers to purchase and finance a vehicle all from the convenience and comfort of home. But with so many virtual car buying options it’s important to determine which application is best for you and what your research needs are.
Whether you’re on the lot comparing prices or at home researching vehicles in your area, there’s an app to best guide you through your car buying process. Consider these top five apps for your needs before hitting download.
1. Edmunds
Edmunds has served as a pillar in the car-buying world for over 50 years. It covers everything from automotive reviews to vehicle pricing information — and the app is no different. The app enables drivers to see available vehicles in their area side by side. You can also set specific parameters to focus your search on the exact vehicle you need.
Best for comparing vehicles
Download Edmunds to explore what is available in your area and find which vehicles are best for your budget and driving needs.
2. Kelley Blue Book
Similar to Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) is a fantastic resource for reviews of vehicles. Its goal is to empower drivers via research so that they get the best price for their vehicle. Kelley Blue Book hosts both expert and consumer reviews. The app presents drivers their chosen vehicle’s “fair market price” based on the vehicle MSRP, current buyer transactions and data gathered from other sources.
Best for real-time pricing information
If you are unsure if you are getting the best deal on your vehicle, KBB can help you check pricing. The app is a great starting point for vehicle negotiation and assurance you are walking away with the best deal.
3. Carvana
Known for its car vending machines, Carvana allows drivers to find, purchase and receive their new set of wheels without ever having to leave their homes. This approach embraces the ease of virtual shopping and is great if you’re buying used or trading in your current vehicle. A major perk that comes with buying from Carvana is the minimal fees. Due to the fully online process, you will save money on dealer commissions and hidden fees. It also has a seven-day test drive period.
Best for a fully virtual experience
If you have your sights set on a vehicle, Carvana is a great option for buying your next set of wheels completely online. Simply choose your car on the app and you can get it delivered right to you. Carvana also offers vehicle financing for drivers, starting at 3.9 percent APR.
4. CarMax
CarMax is made for stress-free car buying. Its model is built on two main arms of business: sales and finance. This makes its app a space to explore vehicles in your area based on aspects like price, mileage, model and make. The app also allows you to apply for vehicle financing or check out vehicle history reports.
Best for the nervous negotiator
The free app removes the headaches from one of the most stressful aspects of car buying — the negotiation. Vehicle prices shown on the app are only those directly from CarMax dealerships, so the price you see is what you pay.
5. iSeeCars
The iSeeCars app and website allow users to search for used cars and find the best deals in your area. They have very specific filters — over 50 — available so that you can search for your next vehicle based on parameters as specific as tow rating or cargo capacity. You can also set price alerts so the app will notify you when a vehicle you are interested in has a price drop.
Best for buying used
While most online apps allow you to explore used vehicles, the iSeeCars interface is built for deep research for used, certified pre-owned vehicles that fit your specific needs. The app also encourages drivers to take advantage of the free VIN (vehicle identification number) report to check out used vehicle history before purchasing.
Next steps
After choosing your next set of wheels, take advantage of online resources to lock in vehicle financing ahead of vehicle purchase to get the best deal. And to stay safe when shopping online check prices consistently and only buy from well-vetted sites.
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Source: https://www.bankrate.com/loans/auto-loans/top-car-buying-apps/