Tips for shoppers buying a car on the web

Plane tickets, clothes, food, appliances - these days, you can buy almost anything directly from the web without ever having to step foot inside of a retail establishment. As the internet continues to change the face of the global marketplace, even some auto companies have decided to sell new cars through the internet. To help consumers avoid being swindled online, Investopedia has offered tips for buyers interested in ordering a vehicle via the web.

While buyers have been able to find used cars online for years, General Motors recently announced it will beginning selling automobiles directly to buyers through eBay in conjunction with its 225 California-based dealerships. The test program is set to run from August 11 to September 8 and will expand nationwide if it is successful.

Get plenty of information

Buyers who are interested in purchasing a new car online should first verify the sellers’ credibility before making any payment transaction. Investopedia recommends scrolling checking the seller's history with the Better Business Bureau before committing to a purchase. Potential buyers should also contact the seller with maintenance questions and ask for photos of the vehicle's interior and exterior. Anyone buying a used car should request an auto history report through a vendor to make sure it's up to par.

See the vehicle in-person

If a seller is based nearby, the website said an interested buyer should test-drive the vehicle to see if it's comfortable and drives well. Verifying car safety is also key, which is why the automobile should also be inspected by an independent mechanic in person, although the source said buyers should still have a mechanic review pictures and vehicle information if they are unable to physically bring it in.

Secure payment

Transferring funds through the internet can leave a buyer open to fraud, which is why they should confirm that a deposit is refundable before making a purchase. After submitting a payment, buyers should print out any online records to verify the transaction. In addition, the source said buyers should make the purchase on a credit card if possible to get limited liability in the event of fraud.

While eBay Motors is a popular option for consumers interested a buying a car on the web, other companies also offer similar services. The Dallas-based startup Driversselect.com, which allows shoppers to virtually peruse and buy used cars, recently announced it was tripling the size of its store facility to keep up with customer demand.