Buying a used car in 2026 is no longer about driving from one lot to another. Today’s best used car websites give buyers access to nationwide inventories, transparent pricing tools, vehicle history reports, and customer reviews, all from one screen. According to Consumer Reports, online platforms now play a central role in helping buyers compare pricing, reliability, and dealer credibility before making a purchase.
As digital car shopping continues to evolve, the best place to buy used cars depends on your priorities such as price transparency, convenience, research tools, or access to rare vehicles. This guide breaks down the most trusted used car sites of 2026, highlighting what each platform does best so you can shop with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
Key Takeaways
- The best used car websites combine transparent pricing, large inventories, and buyer protection tools.
- Comparing listings across multiple platforms helps ensure you are getting a fair deal.
- Vehicle history reports and dealer reviews are essential when buying online.
- Once you purchase a vehicle, Sherpa Auto Transport can safely ship it anywhere in the U.S.
In This Guide:
- Best Online Used Car Buying Sites
- CarMax
- Cars.com
- CarGurus
- AutoTrader
- eBay Motors
- TrueCar
- Carvana
- Edmunds
- CarsDirect
- Hemmings
- AutoTempest
- EdgePipeline
- Craigslist
- Things to Consider When Buying a Used Car
- Why Should I Buy a Used Car?
- How to Ship a Used Car
- Used Car FAQs
- Sherpa’s Best Used Car Site Methodology
Best Online Used Car Buying Sites
The way people buy used cars has changed dramatically, and in 2026, most buyers start and often finish their search online. Instead of spending weekends hopping between dealerships, shoppers can now explore thousands of listings, compare real-time prices, and read verified reviews from the comfort of home.
Today’s leading used car websites go far beyond simple listings. They offer smart search tools, market-based pricing insights, vehicle history reports, and side-by-side comparisons that help buyers make confident decisions. Many platforms combine dealer and private-party listings, giving you access to a wider range of vehicles and price points.
Below, we break down the best online car buying sites, highlighting what each does well and where they fall short so you can choose the platform that fits your car-buying goals.
CarMax
Best Overall Used Car Site
CarMax continues to lead the industry with its no-haggle pricing, nationwide inventory, and strong buyer protections. Every vehicle undergoes a comprehensive inspection, and buyers benefit from a seven-day return policy and optional MaxCare extended warranty. The CarMax MaxCare warranty offers extra peace of mind beyond the manufacturer’s warranty.
This builds trust for thousands of vehicles available nationwide, including certified pre-owned cars. Buyers are confident that they’re purchasing a quality vehicle backed by comprehensive inspections. The transparent pricing model and high customer experience ratings is the primary reason Sherpa rates CarMax the Best Overall Used Car Site.
Pros:
- Transparent, no-haggle pricing
- Wide variety of vehicles
- Guaranteed offer for sellers
- Excellent customer service
Cons:
- Higher prices compared to some other platforms
- Limited negotiation opportunities
Cars.com
Most User-Friendly Site
Cars.com provides a user-friendly interface designed to make car shopping accessible and enjoyable. It offers in-depth reviews and video content from industry experts which buyers understand the pros and cons of different models.
The platform’s price comparison tool allows users to see how a listing compares to similar vehicles in the market so that they can make informed decisions. Additionally, Cars.com includes trade-in value calculators to help buyers offset costs by selling their current vehicle. Sherpa names Cars.com as our pick for the Most User-Friendly Site.
Pros:
- Extensive inventory
- Comprehensive car reviews
- Price comparison tools
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Some listings may lack detailed information
- Can be overwhelming due to the large volume of listings
CarGurus
Best for Online Buyers
Known for its price transparency and dealer reviews, CarGurus is an excellent choice for fair deals and comprehensive information. It excels at helping buyers find great deals with its proprietary Deal Rating System, which labels listings as “Great Deal,” “Good Deal,” or “Fair Deal” based on market analysis.
This platform empowers buyers with detailed dealer reviews and pricing insights, making it easier to negotiate confidently. CarGurus also stands out for its robust filtering options, enabling users to search by criteria like fuel efficiency or safety ratings. CarGurus is our pick for Best for Online Buyers.
Pros:
- Price transparency
- Extensive dealer reviews
- User-friendly platform
- Robust search tools
Cons:
- Ads can be intrusive
- Some listings may not be updated frequently
- No longer offers private sales
AutoTrader
Best Search Functionality
AutoTrader is a comprehensive and user-friendly platform with advanced search options and detailed reviews. The site connects buyers with a wide variety of dealers. Buyers can search for vehicles based on specifications like trim levels, drivetrain types, or optional features, making it a go-to platform for those with precise requirements.
AutoTrader also offers tools like car buying guides and expert reviews to support decision-making. Their My Wallet feature lets users calculate potential financing costs before committing to a purchase. AutoTrader is our pick for Best Search Functionality.
Pros:
- Extensive inventory
- Detailed car reviews and buying guides
- Advanced search options
- Transparent pricing
Cons:
- Some features require a subscription
- Listings can sometimes be outdated
eBay Motors
Best Car Auction Site
eBay Motors is a trusted platform for online car auctions, offering a wide variety of vehicles and flexible purchasing options. eBay Motors stands out as a trusted platform for both car auctions and fixed-price sales, catering to a wide range of buyers, from bargain hunters to collectors.
The buyer protection program safeguards against fraud, making it a safer option for online transactions. eBay Motors offers flexibility for every kind of shopper with filters for condition, mileage, and vehicle type. eBay Motors is our pick for Best Car Auction Site.
Pros:
- Wide variety of vehicles
- Auction and Buy It Now options
- Buyer protection features
- Transparent fee structure
Cons:
- Auction process can be competitive
- Additional fees for listing and buying
TrueCar
Best for Electric Vehicle Buyers
TrueCar’s TrueCar’s real-time pricing data shows what others paid for similar vehicles locally. Its EV-focused tools such as charging insights and range estimates make it especially valuable for electric car shoppers. Buyers also benefit from the platform’s Certified Dealer Network, ensuring a trustworthy purchasing experience. We were also impressed by TrueCar’s electric vehicle resources, meeting the needs of the modern online car buyer.
Pros:
- Transparent pricing
- Certified dealer network
- Price analysis tools
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited to participating dealers
- Some users report aggressive dealer follow-ups
Carvana
Best for Convenience
Carvana offers an entirely online car-buying experience, with features like home delivery and a seven-day return policy, making it a popular choice for convenience. Carvana made online car buying easy by offering a completely virtual process, from browsing to financing to home delivery. Their innovative car vending machines provide a unique and fun pickup option for local buyers.
Pros:
- Home delivery
- Seven-day return policy
- User-friendly online platform
- No-haggle pricing
Cons:
- Limited to Carvana’s inventory
- Prices can be higher due to added convenience
Edmunds
Best Research Site
Edmunds is not a traditional marketplace but remains one of the most trusted research tools in car buying. Its reviews, comparisons, and True Market Value pricing help buyers assess fair pricing. Furthermore, Edmunds is an invaluable resource for car buyers who want to dive deep into research before making a decision. The platform offers editorial reviews, side-by-side comparisons, and tools like a True Market Value calculator to help buyers determine if they’re paying a fair price.
Edmunds is particularly useful for those unsure of what to buy, with detailed guides on everything from hybrid cars to luxury SUVs. We rate Edmunds as the Best Research Site.
Pros:
- Detailed car reviews and buying guides
- Price comparison tools
- User-friendly platform
- Extensive research tools
Cons:
- Not primarily a marketplace
- Limited direct purchasing options
CarsDirect
Best for Financing Options
CarsDirect offers direct-to-consumer car sales and financing, known for its straightforward pricing and user-friendly platform. It is a one-stop shop for buying, financing, and researching used vehicles. Its direct-to-consumer model simplifies the process, offering guaranteed pricing and easy access to financing options.
Also, CarsDirect caters to buyers with bad credit, providing specialized financing solutions to help them secure a vehicle.
Pros:
- Transparent pricing
- Financing options available
- User-friendly interface
- Extensive buying guides
Cons:
- Limited support for sellers
- Inventory can vary
Hemmings
Best for Classic Car Purchases
Hemmings is a niche platform specializing in classic and collector cars, offering a unique selection for enthusiasts. Hemmings is a haven for classic car enthusiasts, offering an extensive inventory of vintage and collector vehicles.
Beyond listings, Hemmings encourages a community of enthusiasts, with forums, newsletters, and a marketplace for parts. Buyers can also find detailed historical records for many vehicles, adding authenticity to their purchases. We rated Hemmings as the Best for Classic Car Purchases.
Pros:
- Specializes in classic and collector cars
- Enthusiast community
- Comprehensive vehicle details
Cons:
- Limited to classic and collector cars
- Smaller inventory compared to general platforms
AutoTempest
Best Aggregator Site
AutoTempest aggregates listings from multiple sites, providing buyers with a comprehensive search experience. However, it’s important to note that AutoTempest is an aggregator and not a direct marketplace, so buyers and sellers are referred elsewhere to complete their purchases.
Further, AutoTempest simplifies the search process by aggregating listings from top platforms like eBay Motors, Cars.com, and AutoTrader. It’s particularly useful for buyers who want to compare prices across multiple sites in one place. The customizable search options help users filter results by location, price range, and vehicle condition.
Pros:
- Aggregates listings from multiple sources
- Comprehensive search options
- User-friendly interface
- Free to use
Cons:
- Limited to search and comparison
- Not a direct marketplace
EdgePipeline
Best for Dealers and Auction Houses
EdgePipeline is a platform designed for dealers and auction houses, offering a specialized tool for industry professionals. It is customized specifically for industry professionals, such as car dealers and auction houses, making it an essential tool for those who need access to large-scale vehicle inventories.
This platform stands out with its advanced search capabilities, allowing users to filter by auction event, vehicle condition, and mileage. Further, EdgePipeline also offers real-time auction updates and detailed vehicle reports, which provide transparency and assist dealers in making informed purchasing decisions.
Pros:
- Specialized for dealers and auctions
- Advanced search options
- Detailed vehicle information
- Professional network
Cons:
- Not ideal for individual buyers or sellers
- Requires registration and membership
Craigslist
Best for Local Deals
Craigslist is a popular classifieds site known for its free listings but often associated with scams and low trust. It is designed for those looking for local transactions without dealership fees. The platform is especially suited for buyers who prefer private sellers, offering a wide variety of listings. However, users should exercise caution and follow safety tips to avoid scams.
Pros:
- Free to use
- Wide variety of listings
- Simple interface
- Local transactions
Cons:
- High risk of scams
- Limited support and security features
- Basic interface
Things to Consider When Buying a Used Car
Choosing the right used car involves carefully considering various factors to ensure you make a smart investment. Start by defining your budget and the type of vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s a fuel-efficient compact car or a spacious SUV.
Determine your ideal monthly payment and read consumer reviews. We also recommend shopping for the most reliable used car brands
It’s also essential to compare prices across different platforms to ensure you’re getting a fair deal. According to a study by Edmunds, used car prices can vary significantly based on factors like age, mileage, and condition.
Before making a purchase, check the vehicle’s history and recall status by entering the VIN on a government website. This helps verify important details and ensures the car meets your safety and reliability criteria.
Why Should I Buy a Used Car?
Buying a used car offers significant cost advantages over purchasing a new vehicle, largely due to depreciation. New cars lose value rapidly in the first few years, while used vehicles allow buyers to avoid the steepest drop in value. On average, new cars depreciate about 20% in the first year of ownership and approximately 60% after five years. New vehicles lose value quickly compared to used cars. According to Edmunds, the average new car price in 2023 was around $47,000, while the average used car price was approximately $27,000.
In addition to lower purchase prices, used cars typically cost less to insure and register. Buyers also enjoy a wider selection of makes and models within the same budget, making used vehicles a practical choice for many shoppers. Bankrate highlights that used cars often come with added benefits, such as lower sales taxes and the ability to avoid specific fees that new cars incur, making buying a used car a financially savvy choice for many consumers.
How to Ship a Used Car
Purchasing a used car online is just the first step in getting your new vehicle home. Sherpa Auto Transport makes the process of shipping your used car purchase straightforward and hassle-free. We provide efficient, reliable, and secure transportation solutions to bridge the gap between online car purchases and physical delivery.
Here’s how to ship your used car with Sherpa Auto Transport and why we are the best choice for your auto transport needs:
- Request a Free Quote: Start by obtaining a quick and transparent quote through our or by speaking with one of our experts over the phone. We offer a variety of solutions tailored to meet your unique needs, including open trailers for most car buyers and enclosed trailers for classic or high-end vehicles.
- Secure Transportation: Once you’ve locked in your shipment, our dedicated team assigns a top-notch carrier to transport your vehicle. We only work with reputable carriers, prioritizing safety and timely delivery.
- Top-Notch Communication: Throughout the shipping process, we provide frequent and transparent updates to keep you informed as your vehicle reaches its final destination.
- Door-to-Door Service: Our door-to-door service means the carrier will pick up and deliver as close to the specified addresses as possible.
Choosing Sherpa Auto Transport offers unparalleled convenience, time-saving benefits, reduced wear and tear on your vehicle, and cost-effective solutions. Our commitment to customer support, safety, and security, along with our industry-leading customer reviews and A+ accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, makes Sherpa the #1 choice for online car buyers. Entrust your newly purchased vehicle to us, and enjoy a seamless and stress-free auto transport experience.
Used Car FAQs
What is the cheapest month to buy a used car?
Historically, December offers the best deals on used cars as dealers try to clear inventory before year-end. January and February can also present lower prices due to reduced buyer demand.
Is it cheaper to buy a used car online or in person?
Online platforms often provide better price transparency and broader inventory, while in-person purchases may allow for negotiation. The final cost depends on market conditions, fees, and financing, not just where you buy.
Sherpa’s Best Used Car Site Methodology
We used five criteria to evaluate the Best Used Car Sites:
- Industry Reputation – Sites that have a strong overall standing in the industry are rated more favorably. We considered years in the industry, BBB rating, and overall reputation
- Platform – We evaluated the platform’s features and ease of use. We also considered if the platform was open to all users.
- Pricing – We evaluated the site’s pricing, favoring transparent pricing structures. We also considered listing fees or premium services.
- Inventory – We evaluated both the quantity and variety of vehicles on the platform.
- Customer Experience — We reviewed the support available for both buyers and sellers and read online customer reviews to evaluate their sentiment towards the platform.
