Are you thinking about purchasing a new or used car? You probably already know that arming yourself with as much knowledge as possible will help you snag the best deal. From auto shows to online forums, there’s a daunting array of info out there to help you find the car of your dreams. Yet have you thought about using mobile apps to compare your options and get a discount? There are a number of apps out there for smartphone users that allow you to do everything from find local dealers to look up the history of a specific used vehicle. With this array of information right at your fingertips, you can research on the fly and insure that you get the best possible price.
Cars.com
One of the top resources for those about to buy a car, the Cars.com mobile app is particularly helpful if you already have the make and model you’re looking for in mind. It will run through all the local dealerships in your area to provide you with sales figures, so that you have real-time values to compare and contrast. These figures can be used to negotiate when you actually contact the dealers, because you’ll know exactly what the car is going for.
CARFAX
If you’re buying a used car, you’ll want to see its history to get a feel for where it’s been. Use the CARFAX app to type in a vehicle identification number and see the vehicle’s history at your fingertips. This will show you a quick rundown of any accidents the car’s been in, as well as any repairs that have been carried out.
CarBuzz
It’s all well and good to go into the car buying process with the end goal in sight, but what if you want to browse? Using review sites like CarBuzz allows you to read car news and reviews first, so that you can get a feel for what’s out there. View spy shots of upcoming cars and read reviews of new models on the market. If you’re planning on dropping significant cash for a new vehicle, it’s essential to do the research first.
Kelley Blue Book
If you’re thinking about trading in your old vehicle for a new one, don’t agree to anything before you’ve researched its market value properly. The Kelley Blue Book has an app that allows you to search by make, model, and year to see relevant values and receive a true quote. Many dealers also use this resource, so you should have some idea of what you can truly get for your car.
eBay Motors
You may have already used eBay to buy vintage clothing or cheap appliances, but this auction website also stocks cars. Yet you don’t have to buy your car directly from the eBay motors app in order to find it useful. It can be used to read reviews and research your options before you make a purchase elsewhere. You can also use it to sell your existing car if you don’t want to deal with trading it in, or purchase spare parts for a fixer-upper.
Before you set foot in a dealer’s lot, be sure to bone up on your car knowledge by downloading these handy apps. Review and listings sites like this iTunes app for Carsales and the ones mentioned above can make a world of difference in your chances for negotiation. Finally, remember to stand your ground, keep your cool, and don’t be afraid to walk away if you don’t like the deal you’re getting.
