Carvana Review: Buying and Selling Guide

Since its launch in 2012, Carvana has reshaped the traditional car buying and selling experience by taking the entire process online. With its eye-catching car vending machines, easy-to-use platform, and no-pressure approach, Carvana has positioned itself as a pioneer in the digital automotive retail space.

In this in-depth Carvana review, we’ll take a close look at how the platform works, explore its strengths and shortcomings, and help you figure out if it’s the right fit for your next car purchase or sale. From browsing inventory and arranging financing to scheduling delivery and understanding warranty coverage, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using Carvana in today’s digital age.

Key Takeaways

• Sherpa rates Carvana 8.4/10, placing it just outside of our 5 highest-rated sites for buying a used car.
• Carvana stands out with Carvana’s modern platform, innovative features, and convenient car buying and selling process. However, some users report poor customer service during their Carvana purchase.
• Carvana’s 7-day return or exchange policy adds a layer of security for buyers,
• We recommend Carvana as a solid option for those who prioritize a convenient digital experience, but customers looking for low prices should shop elsewhere.

In This Review

• Overview of Carvana
• What is Carvana?
• How Does Carvana Work?
• Car Vending Machines: A Unique Carvana Experience
• Pros of Carvana
• Cons of Carvana
• Common Issues with Carvana
• Trust and Reliability
• Review of Carvana Car Purchase Process
• Review of Carvana Selling Process
• Title Transfer and Paperwork
• What is Carvana Care?
• Monitoring Vehicle Value with Carvana
• Comparison to Traditional Car Buying and Selling
• Conclusion: Is Carvana Right for You?
• Carvana FAQs

Overview of Carvana

Carvana is an online car buying and selling platform that aims to provide a hassle-free and efficient experience for customers. With a vast inventory of used cars, Carvana allows customers to browse and purchase vehicles online, offering the convenience of shopping from home. Each vehicle undergoes a rigorous 200-point inspection to ensure it meets high standards before being listed for sale; Carvana’s inspection centers have developed a reputation for thoroughness, though some customers have raised concerns.

A relatively newcomer in the industry, Carvana stands out for its innovative approach to buying a car online. Compared to other companies in the online car-buying industry, Carvana’s features and customer experience set it apart, though it faces similar challenges as its competitors. We evaluated Carvana and other leading used car sites based on reputation, platform, pricing, inventory, and customer satisfaction. We give Carvana an overall rating of 8.4 out of 10, just missing our list of the five best used car sites.

Overall Rating: 8.4/10

With a user-friendly platform and transparent pricing, Carvana offers a convenient and modern buying experience for those seeking a new car. Its fully digital approach eliminates the need for in-person dealership visits, making car purchasing more convenient. While it has occasional delivery and vehicle condition issues, Carvana provides a positive overall experience for online car buyers.

Some customers have reported issues with their second car purchase, noting undisclosed problems and poor customer service. Despite these occasional issues, Carvana remains a strong choice for those looking to buy a car online.

Reputation: 9/10

Founded in 2012, Carvana has quickly become a leading innovator in the online car-buying industry. It is best known for introducing car vending machines, allowing customers to pick up their purchases uniquely and interactively.

This, combined with its completely digital purchasing process, has set Carvana apart from traditional dealerships and competitors. The company’s rapid growth and widespread recognition highlight its strong reputation in the market. Carvana’s willingness to respond to customer feedback and reviews has also contributed to its positive reputation.

Platform: 9/10

Carvana’s platform is intuitive and easy to navigate, earning it a high score. Users can effortlessly browse, compare, and purchase vehicles from the comfort of their homes. In addition, users can manage their account online, including accessing loan details, scheduling payments, and utilizing customer service options. A standout feature is the 360-degree virtual car tour, which provides a detailed view of each vehicle’s condition. This level of transparency enhances the shopping experience, making it easier for buyers to make informed decisions.

Pricing: 8/10

Carvana is known for its upfront, all-inclusive pricing, which eliminates the need for haggling. We appreciate the 7-day money-back guarantee, which allows buyers to return the car if they are not satisfied. Carvana also allows buyers to structure their monthly payments and manage payments through flexible options on the platform, making it easier to fit the purchase into their budget.

However, Carvana’s prices are generally higher than those of traditional dealerships and some competitor platforms, as there is limited room for negotiation. While the transparency is a plus, budget-conscious buyers might find better deals elsewhere.

Inventory: 8/10

Carvana maintains a large and ever-expanding inventory, typically featuring thousands of vehicles across various makes and models. This broad selection makes it easy for most buyers to find a car that fits their needs. However, those looking for specialty vehicles, rare models, or specific trims may need to explore other platforms with a more diverse or specialized selection.

Customer Satisfaction: 8/10

We were impressed by many of Carvana’s customer-centric features. Carvana offers several customer-friendly policies, such as detailed vehicle inspection reports and a 7-day return policy, which provide peace of mind to buyers.

However, Carvana’s customer reviews present a mixed bag in terms of satisfaction from buyers and sellers with some praising the smooth experience while others report issues with vehicle conditions, customer support, and returns. Some customers also mentioned being given the wrong information about the vehicle’s condition or service expectations. While Carvana’s innovative model is well-received overall, inconsistencies in customer service and vehicle quality remain areas for improvement.

What is Carvana?

Carvana is an online car dealership founded in 2012, revolutionizing how online buyers purchase a car. Carvana sells used vehicles directly to customers through its digital platform. The company is best known for its car vending machines, which provide a fun and unique way to pick up your car purchase.

Carvana offers a wide selection of new cars and used vehicles, all of which undergo a rigorous 150-point inspection and come with a Carfax report. With its A+ BBB rating, Carvana is recognized for its commitment to customer satisfaction and transparency.

How Does Carvana Work?

Carvana simplifies the car buying process into a few straightforward steps:

1. Browse and Select: Carvana’s intuitive website allows users to browse a variety of vehicles, featuring 360-degree virtual tours of each.
2. Finance and Purchase: Carvana offers financing options directly through its website. Through Carvana, users can purchase a car online without stepping foot in a dealership.
3. Delivery or Pickup: Once the purchase is complete, buyers can choose to have the car delivered to their home or pick it up from a nearby car vending machine. The entire process, including vehicle pickup, can be completed within a few hours, showcasing the efficiency of Carvana’s service. Carvana also provides customer support via phone for assistance with any part of the process.

Car Vending Machines: A Unique Carvana Experience

Carvana’s car vending machines have become a signature feature that sets the company apart from any traditional car dealership. These impressive, multi-story towers are more than just a marketing gimmick. They offer car buyers a genuinely fun and memorable way to pick up their used cars. After completing a purchase online, customers can choose to retrieve their vehicle from a vending machine location, where the process is as simple as dropping off a special coin and watching their car descend from the tower.

The vending machine experience is designed to be both easy and exciting, making it a big deal for anyone who wants something different from the usual dealership visit. With the Carvana app, customers can schedule their pickup or even arrange for a drop off at a vending machine, adding flexibility to the process.

Whether you’re picking up your car in person or having it delivered, Carvana’s vending machines make the entire experience more interactive and enjoyable for customers. It’s a unique twist that has helped Carvana stand out in the world of online car buying.

Pros of Carvana

• Convenience: Carvana’s fully online process eliminates the need to visit multiple dealerships.
• 7-Day Return Policy: Buyers have a week to test drive and return the car if they’re not satisfied.
• Vehicle Quality: Each car undergoes a thorough 150-point inspection and comes with a Carfax report, ensuring high quality.

Note: while Carvana offers a 7-day return policy, some buyers report a delay in receiving their refund after canceling.

Cons of Carvana

Most of the cons around the Carvana car buying process are related to the following:

• Price: Carvana’s prices can be higher compared to private sales due to the convenience and added services.
• Limited Negotiation: Carvana operates on a fixed pricing model, so there’s no room for haggling.
• Inventory: While Carvana offers a wide variety of vehicles, some users report limited selection in certain regions.

Common Issues with Carvana

Despite its innovative approach to car buying and selling, Carvana has faced several common issues that have affected customer satisfaction. One of the most frequently reported problems is poor customer service, with some customers experiencing difficulties in getting timely and helpful responses.

Issues with the quality of the cars have also been noted, with some vehicles not meeting the expected standards upon delivery. Additionally, the return and exchange process can be cumbersome, with some customers facing delays and complications.

Customers with active bankruptcies may not qualify for Carvana’s financing options, which can be a limitation for some buyers. Problems with the title transfer and paperwork process have also been reported, causing frustration for some buyers. Furthermore, the delivery process has its own set of challenges, including delays and issues with the delivery person.

Trust and Reliability

Trust and reliability are essential components of any car buying and selling experience. However, some customers have raised concerns about Carvana’s trustworthiness and reliability. Questions have been raised about the thoroughness of the 200-point inspection process, with some buyers finding discrepancies between the vehicle description and the actual condition of the car.

Additionally, issues with the accuracy of vehicle descriptions and pricing have been reported, leading to dissatisfaction. The warranty and repair process has also been a point of contention, with some customers finding it frustrating and costly.

To build trust and reliability, Carvana must prioritize transparency and communication with its customers, ensuring that all aspects of the buying and selling process are clear and straightforward.

Review of Carvana Car Purchase Process

The buying process with Carvana is designed to be simple and stress-free:

• Browsing: The website is user-friendly, allowing easy navigation through a vast inventory.
• Financing: Carvana offers competitive financing options directly through its platform. Buyers with bad credit can also find financing solutions, making Carvana accessible to a wider range of customers.
• Delivery: After purchase, customers can opt for home delivery or pick up their vehicle from a Carvana vending machine. The entire process can be completed online, which is a significant advantage for busy buyers.

Carvana’s buying process is designed with the modern consumer in mind, offering an intuitive online experience that simplifies the car buying journey. From browsing a wide selection of vehicles with 360-degree virtual tours to financing and completing the purchase online, Carvana aims to make the process as seamless as possible. Their transparent pricing ensures that there are no hidden fees, and the price you see is the price you pay.

However, Carvana’s prices can be higher than those of private sales, reflecting the added value of their services and the ease of the transaction. While you might find lower prices through private sellers or other platforms that allow for negotiation, these options often require more time, effort, and uncertainty.

Tip: Carvana requires users to upload their proof of insurance before finalizing the sale. Some customers have faced delays due to their insurance company, leading to complications in the purchase process.

Review of Carvana Selling Process

Selling your car to Carvana is just as straightforward:

• Instant Quote: Carvana provides an instant online quote based on the car’s details and condition.
• Free Pickup: If the offer is accepted, Carvana will arrange a free pickup of the vehicle.
• Quick Payment: Sellers are typically paid promptly after the sale is completed, making it a hassle-free option for sellers. Customers have received better offers on direct trade-ins than traditional dealerships.

Like its buying process, Carvana’s selling process is designed for convenience and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for those who want a hassle-free way to sell their car. This streamlined approach eliminates the need for you to find buyers, negotiate prices, or handle the logistics of the sale.

However, this convenience comes at a cost. Carvana’s fixed pricing model means there’s no room for haggling, and while the offers are generally competitive, they might be lower than what some sellers expect.

Therefore, if your primary goal is to get the highest possible payout for your car you might want to explore other options, such as selling your car privately or using platforms that allow for price negotiations. These methods can require more time and effort, but they often result in a higher sale price.

Title Transfer and Paperwork

The title transfer and paperwork process is a critical component of any car buying and selling experience. However, some customers have reported issues with this process when dealing with Carvana. Delays in the transfer of ownership and problems with the accuracy of the paperwork have been common complaints.

These issues can be time-consuming and frustrating for buyers who expect a smooth transaction. To improve this process, Carvana must prioritize clear communication and transparency with its customers. This includes providing all the necessary documents and information in a timely and efficient manner, ensuring that buyers can complete their transactions without unnecessary delays or complications.

What is Carvana Care?

CarvanaCare® is an optional extended warranty program offered by Carvana. It provides additional coverage for your vehicle beyond the standard limited warranty. CarvanaCare covers major components like the engine and transmission, giving peace of mind to buyers who want extra protection for their investment. Carvana offers three tiers, Essential, Plus, and Premier, to meet the needs (and budgets) of their customers.

Monitoring Vehicle Value with Carvana

Staying informed about your car’s value is crucial, whether you’re planning to sell, trade in, or simply want to keep track of your investment. Carvana makes this easy with its free car value tracker tool, available right on the Carvana website. This tool allows car buyers and owners to input their vehicle’s details and receive regular updates on its current and historical value, as well as trends in the used cars market.

You don’t have to be a previous Carvana customer to use this feature—anyone can take advantage of it to monitor their car’s worth over time. The tracker is especially helpful for those considering selling or trading in their vehicle, as it provides up-to-date information that can guide your decision-making process. In addition to the value tracker, the Carvana website is packed with reviews, pricing data, and detailed information on used cars, making it a valuable resource for both buyers and sellers looking to make informed choices.

Comparison to Traditional Car Buying and Selling

Carvana’s online car buying and selling platform offers several advantages over traditional car buying and selling methods. For example, customers can browse and purchase vehicles from the comfort of their own homes without the need to visit a physical dealership.

This convenience is a significant benefit for busy individuals who prefer to handle their car purchases online. Additionally, Carvana’s 7-day return and exchange policy provides customers with greater flexibility and peace of mind, allowing them to test drive the vehicle and ensure it meets their expectations.

However, some customers may prefer the traditional car buying and selling experience, which allows for face-to-face interaction and a more personalized experience. Conventional methods also offer the opportunity to negotiate prices and inspect the vehicle in person before making a purchase. Ultimately, the choice between Carvana and traditional car buying and selling methods depends on individual preferences and needs.

Bottom Line

Carvana offers a modern, digital-first car buying experience with online browsing, purchasing, and home delivery—plus unique features like car vending machines and flexible financing for all credit levels. Its transparent pricing and guarantees add peace of mind, while vehicle shipping through Sherpa Auto Transport provides added convenience. Just be sure to review terms and your financial situation before buying.

Carvana FAQs