Did you know that the average cost of a new car has soared to approximately $49,000? In these times of rampant inflation, finding ways to save money is crucial, and opting for a used car could be a smart choice. According to Ally Financial, a staggering 70% of individuals are inclined towards considering used vehicles. So why hesitate?
Although purchasing cars online might seem daunting, reputable auto transport companies such as Vroom and Carvana have simplified the process, allowing you to buy or sell a car conveniently from the comfort of your home.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison between Vroom and Carvana, empowering you to make an informed decision on the better option for your needs. So, let’s dive in and explore the features and benefits each platform offers to help you navigate the online car buying journey with confidence!
Summary
Carvana Explained: The Future of Online Car Buying
Carvana stands out as an online platform prioritizing customers, offering an integrated system for purchasing, trading, financing, and selling pre-owned cars. Let’s delve deeper into the buying and selling processes at Carvana:
Carvana’s Selling Process
Similar to Vroom, Carvana initiates its selling process with an online evaluation. Once you’ve submitted the necessary details, Carvana swiftly generates a quote within a mere 2 minutes.
Upon acceptance of the offer, a comprehensive inspection is carried out to verify that the vehicle aligns with the provided description. Upon confirmation, Carvana proceeds with the contract and ensures immediate payment for your vehicle.
Carvana’s Buying Process
Similar to Vroom’s approach, Carvana’s website provides a user-friendly platform to explore and filter cars based on preferences. Carvana enhances the online buying experience by offering a 360-degree inspection feature. This unique tool allows potential buyers to view the prospective purchase comprehensively, examining the car from all angles and even inspecting the interior.
After finalizing the purchase, buyers can opt for convenient delivery to their doorstep or choose to collect the vehicle from one of Carvana’s distinctive vending machines.
Pros of Carvana
- Extensive inventory offering a wide selection of vehicles.
- Free delivery within the local market range for added convenience.
- A customer-friendly “no questions asked” 7-day return policy.
Cons of Carvana
- No provision for test drives before the purchase, relying solely on the online experience.
- Limited room for price negotiation, offering little flexibility in pricing discussions.
Carvana’s commitment to a seamless online car buying experience, coupled with an extensive inventory and buyer-friendly policies, make it a prominent choice despite some limitations in traditional purchasing practices like test drives and price negotiations.
Vroom Unveiled: Online Car Purchases in Simple Terms
Vroom stands out as an uncomplicated online car dealership offering a hassle-free space to buy, sell, and trade cars. Let’s take a closer look at how the buying and selling processes unfold at Vroom:
Vroom’s Selling Process
The process kicks off with a comprehensive evaluation of your car. You’ll need to provide essential details such as make, mileage, model, and history. Subsequent to this assessment, Vroom presents you with an offer valid for a generous seven days.
Upon acceptance of the offer, Vroom’s team requests additional information, including a picture of your ID and car registration. Following this, you’ll receive a contract to finalize the sale. Vroom then arranges for the pickup of your vehicle and promptly issues a check to you.
Vroom’s Buying Process
Navigating Vroom’s website allows you to browse and select your preferred car, utilizing search filters based on make, model, price, and other criteria. The 360-degree view feature enables a comprehensive inspection of the potential vehicle of interest.
Payment options include cash or financing through partnering banks, as Vroom does not directly offer financing. Once an order is placed, you’re required to provide your ID and driver’s license. Upon approval, Vroom sends you an e-signable contract.
You have the option to get your purchased car delivered to your doorstep for a fee. This streamlined buying process is a key factor in why Vroom is considered among the top websites for purchasing used cars.
Pros of Vroom
- Extended roadside assistance coverage.
- No-haggle buying services, ensuring a straightforward purchasing experience.
- A customer-friendly 7-day return policy if satisfaction isn’t met.
Cons of Vroom
- No provision for test drives before purchase, relying solely on online inspections.
- Higher delivery costs associated with Vroom’s service.
Vroom’s commitment to hassle-free transactions, coupled with features like an extended return policy and simplified buying processes, solidify its position as a prominent choice for those seeking a straightforward online car buying experience, despite limitations such as the absence of test drives and higher delivery expenses.
Vroom vs. Carvana: A Simple Comparison
Pricing and Additional Fees
Both Vroom and Carvana operate on a no-haggle pricing policy, ensuring transparent costs for buyers. Vroom features vehicles priced between $6,499 to $79,999, while Carvana’s price range spans $10,590 to $77,990.
Regarding fees, Carvana typically doesn’t require a deposit for purchases, although a $100 refundable deposit is necessary for preorders. In contrast, Vroom mandates a non-refundable deposit during the purchase process.
Vehicle Delivery and Charges
Carvana facilitates free delivery within local markets. However, for areas beyond, delivery charges may spike up to $1490. Alternatively, buyers can opt to collect their vehicle from Carvana’s vending machines, avoiding these delivery fees. Additional shipping fees might apply if the car needs transportation from another state.
Vroom operates solely through delivery, lacking physical locations. Their delivery fees range from $0 to $1399, varying based on the buyer’s location. Unlike Carvana, Vroom does not charge for shipping, incorporating the delivery fee into the overall cost.
Return Policy and Money-Back Guarantee
Both Vroom and Carvana offer a 7-day money-back guarantee. Vroom charges $1 per mile beyond 250 miles, whereas Carvana’s policy stipulates a charge of $1 for every mile exceeding 400 miles.
Quality Inspection
Quality inspection is pivotal for buyer confidence. Vroom executes a rigorous 187-point inspection covering cosmetic, electronic, and mechanical aspects. In comparison, Carvana’s 150-point inspection evaluates the interior, exterior, and under-the-hood components.
Warranty Coverage
Vroom extends a 90-day warranty coupled with one-year roadside assistance, while Carvana provides a 100-day warranty and 100 days of roadside assistance.
Vehicle Inventory
Carvana boasts an extensive inventory of around 15,000 vehicles, offering customers a wide array of options. In contrast, Vroom maintains a more modest inventory, ranging from 3,000 to 4,000 cars.
Customer Reviews
Consumer Affairs rates Carvana at 3.3 out of 5, with some customers citing concerns about inadequate customer support and delayed deliveries. On the other hand, Vroom holds a rating of 1.8 out of 5, with numerous negative reviews centered around unresponsive customer service, delayed deliveries, and reports of damaged vehicles.
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