Did you know that the U.S. used car market continues to outperform the new car market, with more buyers than ever turning to online platforms? In fact, McKinsey & Company reports that the used car market is still more than twice as large as the new car market. With rising consumer demand and evolving technology, there are now more user-friendly, transparent, and secure websites to buy a second-hand car than ever before.
If you're wondering which are the best used car buying websites this year, we’ve compiled the most reliable, feature-rich platforms for every type of buyer, from classic car collectors to deal-seekers and buyers who prefer fully online transactions.
What Is the Best Used Car to Buy Right Now?
Before you visit a website to buy a used car, you need to know what you’re looking for. According to recent data from U.S. News and Edmunds, some of the best used cars under $25,000 in 2025 include:
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2018–2020 Honda Accord
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2019–2021 Toyota Camry
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2017–2019 Mazda CX-5
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2018–2021 Subaru Outback
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2018–2020 Toyota RAV4
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2019 Hyundai Kona
These models are known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and resale value, crucial considerations when buying a pre-owned vehicle.
How to Find a Good Used Car
Start with determining your budget, vehicle type, and must-have features. Use tools like the Car Value Calculator to understand market pricing. Once you’re ready, use the following list of the best websites to buy used cars to begin your search.
Top 10 Best Websites to Buy Used Cars in 2025
1. CarGurus
Best For: Deal-seekers who want data-driven pricing insights
Key Features:
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Price ratings: Great, Good, Fair, or Overpriced
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Advanced filters for location, mileage, accident history
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Payment estimator and price drop alerts
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Dealer and private listings
2. Cars.com
Best For: Buyers wanting extensive search filters and local inventory
Key Features:
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Compare multiple listings side-by-side
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Real-time inventory updates
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Dealer ratings and buyer reviews
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Trade-in value estimator
3. Autotrader
Best For: Broadest inventory and trusted brand reputation
Key Features:
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Over 3 million new and used listings
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Nationwide dealer network
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Custom search filters: drivetrain, features, fuel type
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Car research tools and financing calculators
4. Edmunds
Best For: Research-heavy buyers looking for reviews and pricing guidance
Key Features:
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True Market Value (TMV) pricing
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Expert vehicle reviews and test drives
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Online and offline purchasing options
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Delivery options available nationwide
5. Carvana
Best For: Buyers who want a 100% online purchase experience
Key Features:
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7-day return policy and 90-day warranty
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Vehicle delivery and pickup via vending machines
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Financing, insurance, and trade-in support
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Thorough 150-point inspections
6. CarMax
Best For: Buyers who want certified used vehicles with no-haggle pricing
Key Features:
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24-hour test drives
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30-day money-back guarantee
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In-house financing and vehicle protection plans
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Nationwide delivery on most cars
7. Cars & Bids
Best For: Enthusiasts seeking newer and rare models via auctions
Key Features:
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Auction format with real-time bidding
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Includes vehicle history reports
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Transparent buyer/seller feedback
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Low seller fees
8. Bring A Trailer
Best For: Collectors and classic car fans
Key Features:
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Carefully curated listings
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Community commentary and discussion
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Buyer-friendly auction terms
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Historical and collector vehicles
9. Vroom
Best For: Fast transactions with financing and warranties
Key Features:
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Home delivery and pickup service
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90-day limited warranty and 7-day returns
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Financing and GAP insurance available
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Detailed inspection reports
10. Facebook Marketplace/Craigslist
Best For: Budget buyers looking for private party sales
Key Features:
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Local listings and direct communication with sellers
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No listing or platform fees
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Great for finding unique deals or fixer-uppers
How to Buy a Used Car From a Private Seller
When buying from an individual seller:
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Get a Vehicle History Report (Carfax or AutoCheck)
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Ask for maintenance records, ownership history, and title status
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Conduct a test drive to check performance and features
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Get the car inspected by a certified mechanic
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Negotiate using market data from sites like Edmunds or CarGurus
Make sure to handle the title transfer, bill of sale, and registration through your state DMV.
Also read: Carvana vs CarMax - Car Selling Sites Comparison
Final Thoughts
Buying a used car has never been easier, thanks to these best websites to buy used cars. Whether you want a car shipped from another state, plan to negotiate with a private seller, or prefer a touchless online buying experience, these platforms have something for every buyer.
Ready to buy your next vehicle? Use our tools like the Car Value Calculator, and explore our expert guide on how to Sell Your Car Online before upgrading. And once you’ve found the perfect vehicle, let us help you Ship a Car to Another State or get a quote on your Car Shipping Cost with Nexus Auto Transport.
Need help choosing the right transport option? Talk to the top-rated Auto Transport Company trusted by thousands of satisfied car buyers!
FAQs About Used Car Buying Website
Where can I buy cars online?
You can buy cars online via online car auctions, online car listings, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, automotive forums, and more. Wherever you can find a valid listing on a car, you have the potential to strike a deal. However, some services are more reputable than others. Do your due diligence before beginning negotiations with a car seller online.
How do I buy a vehicle online?
The best way to buy a vehicle online is to be patient and look at multiple websites. Set a budget and stick to the ceiling when perusing vehicles. Be sure to look at each website's credentials and terms and conditions. If meeting with a private seller via Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, look for scam red flags and request as much official documentation as possible. You can even have them send you the CarFAX or similar official vehicle history report.
What kind of cars can you buy online?
You can buy nearly every commercial model of sedan, truck, SUV, van, motorcycle, boat, and more via an online website. Some specialized equipment, such as construction vehicles, may require additional permits and licensing before purchase. However, it's a given that you'll find several potential buys by just jumping around on the top car-selling websites.
What are the best car-selling websites?
Our Nexus picks for the best vehicle-selling websites include CarsDirect, AutoTrader, Hemmings, Carvana, and AutoTempest. When buying a vehicle online, look for transparency, upfront pricing, excellent customer service, a wide selection, and secure payment options. Try to steer clear of want ads and Craigslist unless you're familiar with the red flags and how to spot scams.
What paperwork is required to buy a used car online?
Nearly every online vehicle-selling site requires you to have government-issued identification and proof of insurance. You may also need proof of income for financing, as well as evidence of your residence. You will need to immediately register the car within your state's specified window and ensure that you meet all required safety regulations for your city and area. This includes emissions tests.
Is buying a vehicle online safe?
The safety of buying a car online depends on where you're buying a car from and what security standards are in place. Most of the top car-selling sites are extremely diligent about vetting sellers, monitoring interactions, validating current vehicle conditions, and more. In addition, these sites often offer secure payment portals that protect your financial information and promote swift, accurate payment. Stick to sites with good reviews and avoid sketchy websites with vague terms and conditions and little information about them.
Should I buy a car online?
It is a good idea to buy a car online in 2025. Right now, you can get some of the best deals on used cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and more through online car listings – both on third-party sites and community boards like Craigslist and auto forums. While the drawbacks of no test drives and sight-unseen purchasing are real, the sheer volume of cars to choose from and the security standards of top websites make this the perfect time to purchase online.
What are the red flags when buying a vehicle online?
Be on the lookout for clear red flags when purchasing a vehicle online. These red flags include limited information about the car, with no or few photos, an unwillingness to share vehicle history, unclear terms and conditions on the website you're using, heavy sales pressure, unusually low prices, and unusual payment requests. The more a transaction starts to feel weird, the quicker you should exit negotiations and shop elsewhere.
