4 Best Apps for Car Shopping

What would make a better Christmas present than a shiny new car with a big red bow on top? Whether you have been thinking about buying a new car for yourself or for a loved one, the holiday season can be a great time to find low prices on new and used cars.

Rather than venturing out into the swarms of holiday shoppers to compare prices, stay home and do it in your pajamas!

These four apps are all designed to make the car shopping experience a breeze.

1. Cars.com 

Where do you look when you’re ready to buy a car? The cars.com app should be on the top of your list. This app includes a comprehensive, up to date database of cars in your area. Search by make and model, year, price range, or even colors and features of new and used cars.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, cars.com allows you to save three specific cars from dealer inventories (not just models in general, which most comparison tools do) and compare them side by side.

2. Edmunds.com

If you’ve ever done any kind of car research online, chances are you’ve been to edmunds.com. This site is a treasure trove of essential information for car buyers, and their app is just as helpful. You can research car types, prices, features, models, recalls, photos, user reviews, gas mileage, and virtually anything else you’d ever want to know. While loads of research may seem overwhelming, Edmunds.com app reviewers often cite the app’s easy-to-navigate interface.

The True Market Value estimate is particularly helpful. Car prices vary from zip code to zip code, and True Market Value tool helps you see what other buyers in your area paid for specific car models.

3. TrueCar

When it comes to car shopping, there’s one thing almost every car dealer fears–being taken advantage of by car salespeople. With TrueCar, you can put your mind at rest. It shows you the average price of new cars in your location, then puts you in contact with certified dealers who promise upfront pricing and transparency.

TrueCar also guarantees savings. According to their website, customers who purchase a car through their TrueCar Certified Dealers save an average of $3,078 off the MSRP. For anyone purchasing a new car, this app is a must.

4. CarMax

If you’re set on the idea of a used car, CarMax may be the app for you! CarMax has sold over 5 million cars and has more than 140 stores across the country. You can browse through cars in your area or cars outside of your area and get a feel for what’s out there. Once you find your car, call the store and set up an appointment for a test drive. You can search for your car from the comfort of your home and then drive to it for a test drive. You may be able to shop around enough to find the right car for you on the same day that you start your search!

Buying a car is a big decision and taking advantage of the low holiday prices can ensure that you get the best possible price on your car. Download these apps and find your perfect car today!