Used car sites are beneficial to both car sellers and shoppers. The availability of reputable websites like CarsDirect has taken a healthy chunk of time and labor out of car shopping.
As anyone who has ever shopped for a popular car knows, it's easy to end up with more choices than even a used car wholesaler could consider useful. Luckily, there are a few simple things to keep in mind while taking part in "virtual tire kicking".
Consider the Photos
It should be said that shots of under the hood are nice, but they really don't show too much about vehicle condition. Not only are modem engine compartments covered with quite a lot of cosmetic enhancing plastic, but the detailing department at many dealers can make even the most leak-prone engine look photoworthy.
They tend to be rare in mainstream listings, but a good series of photos of under the car are much more telling than most engine shots. If you are considering a car that is a good distance away, it can't hurt to ask the dealer if they are willing to snap a few pictures under the car. A clean undercarriage should be free of any major rust, bends or heavy fluid leaks. This may be more difficult to ask of someone selling a privately-owned car, but most mechanically-inclined sellers will understand the request.
Another easy thing to look for in any quality digital photo is the alignment of the body panels on the car. This is the space between exterior parts such as the trunk, hood, doors and bumpers. The gap between all of the aforementioned panels should be consistent. Misaligned or crooked parts may indicate shoddy bodywork or past owner modification. This is one of the quickest and easiest ways to dismiss a troubled car.
Look at the Specifics
The cars mentioned on the website should have adequate information listed. This will allow you to make an informed decision about inquiring further. Is the car close enough to you that you can do a test drive? Is the VIN or car history report available? Is the owner or dealer willing to answer your questions? If the answer is no to any of these questions, it may be best to find another car and another seller.
