The Best Ways to Buy a New Car Over the Internet

Once you have decided on the type of new car you wish to buy and have researched prices, you may decide to bypass running out to dealerships by making a purchase over the Internet. You can buy a new car over the Internet in one of several ways. You can use it to get initial offers from car dealers before you go in to finalize the deal, or you can handle everything online other than the actual paperwork signing and pickup of the car.

Multiple quotes

There are many websites that will allow you to request competing quotes from multiple car dealers in your area. Some of the most popular include Kelly Blue Book, Autobytel and Edmunds. You simply input your personal information and the make and model of car you are seeking. The website will pass your information along to local dealers who will contact you directly with offers. You must do your research before you use this method so you can tell if the offers are good. Just because you get an offer via a website inquiry doesn't guarantee that it will be cheap.

Dealing with one dealer

You may wish to deal with one particular dealer for your Internet purchase. Most new car dealers have a dedicated Internet Manager who deals exclusively with online buyers. You can view the dealer's inventory online, decide on the particular vehicles in which you are interested, and fill out a form that will be submitted to the Internet manager. She will respond with the dealer's Internet price on those vehicles. Compare those prices to your research to make sure you are getting a good deal. If you think the price should be cheaper, don't be afraid to call the Internet manager and make a counteroffer. Also, make sure that the price you are being given is the out-the-door price that includes all fees, taxes and other charges. If you come to an agreement, the Internet manager will normally have all the paperwork ready when you arrive at the dealership.

Dealing with multiple dealers

You may wish to shop at multiple dealers right from your keyboard. Instead of asking the dealers for a quote, work out a fair price for the type of vehicle you will be purchasing, based on your prior research. Come up with an out-the-door price that includes what you will pay for the vehicle and the actual license fee and taxes. Locate dealers who have an appropriate car by checking their inventory online. Send an email to each dealer, saying, "I am in the market for a (make and model) with (options) and you currently have one in your inventory. I am willing to pay (price) for this car as the out-the-door price, including taxes, license and fees. I am sending this email to several dealers to get the best deal. If you are willing to match my price or to offer me a lower price, please contact me at (phone number)."

Some dealers will call and ask you to come in to negotiate. Explain that you will only deal with those who are willing to give you a firm price first. Out of the others, choose the dealership that offers the lowest price. If several have given the same price, choose based on location. If they give the price over the phone, have them email or fax confirmation of their offer before you go in.