Used car buyers tempted online

More people than ever are buying used cars online without viewing or taking a test drive, according to used car supermarket Carshop.

The car retailer is hoping to further increase online sales by offering advanced digital technology to make web-based used car transactions easier, faster and more informed.

Carshop customers will be able to search for, buy and book delivery of a used car without leaving their computer. The buyer can also use their current car as part exchange.

There will also be live video links, allowing a personalised online tour of the vehicle with a Carshop staff member.

What Car? always recommends checking and driving a used car before buying, but Carshop operations manager Jonathan Dunkley believes buyers arent at risk.

'While it's unlikely used car sales will ever move completely online, our aim is to enable our customers to choose their car, their way. We're seeing more and more people putting down deposits without seeing the car.

'We offer at least 32 images per advert, live video links and an industry-standard no-quibble seven-day money-back guarantee if the customer isnt happy. Every car goes through a 114-point check before it leaves us.'

For free used car valuations, visit www.whatcar.com/valuations