AA Cars reports one in four now buy cars online without in-person view

New research from AA Cars reveals that 25% of UK drivers have bought a car online without seeing it in person, up from 21% last year.

The survey of over 10,000 motorists shows that nearly half (48%) of these buyers opted for a new car from a dealership, while 44% bought a used vehicle through a dealer or online platform.

Only 6% purchased used cars from private sellers, and 2% did so from auctions.

Despite this shift, over 70% of drivers still prefer inspecting a vehicle in person, although this figure has dropped from 73% in 2022.

Many who bought unseen were reassured by factors like warranties (44%), reputable dealerships (43%), flexible return policies (21%), and detailed inspections (20%).

The data also indicates that high-quality photos play an increasing role in online purchases, with 35% of buyers more likely to buy a car online if the listing includes premium visuals.

This figure jumps to 65% among younger drivers aged 18-35, highlighting a growing demand for visually detailed listings.

James Hosking, director of AA Cars, said: “A big-ticket purchase like a car is an important decision and people want to feel confident they are getting the best deal for their hard-earned cash.

“The majority of drivers still prefer to visit a forecourt in person, believing they will get better value for money and less likely to end up with a car with any mechanical issues or cosmetic flaws.

“However, consumers are growing increasingly confident in buying a car online, which allows for greater convenience and access to a wider variety of options.

“Dealerships that offer the option to buy online and a user-friendly experience can expand their customer base across the UK, making it easier for consumers to find the right car without being limited by location.

“But to ensure that buyers feel secure in purchasing unseen vehicles, it’s important that dealerships provide the necessary reassurances, such as high-quality photos and videos, warranties and return guarantees.”