Log on for lowest prices

More and more second-hand buyers are logging on to the Internet to find their next car. And they’re about to benefit from increased choice and better quality, with thousands of ex-fleet models set to hit auction website eBay, costing around a third less than at a dealer.

Customers can access the cars via online retailer AutoQuake, which has signed a deal to market models traditionally sold at trade outlets. It claims it will give savings of up to 30 per cent over forecourt values. “By cutting out the middle man, we can offer these cars at low prices, and our unrivalled listings mean people know exactly what they are buying,” said company founder Jeanette Moskovits.

Every car on sale gets an HPI check and a mechanical inspection. Each listing includes 70 pictures and copies of documentation, too, so you needn’t see the model in the flesh.

To cut costs, AutoQuake doesn’t carry out costly cosmetic repairs, so buyers need to pay close attention to the online listing, which uses a diagram to highlight the location of any scratches or dents. Images of affected areas can then be called up to examine the level of damage. AutoQuake has already sold more than 2,000 vehicles this way on eBay, and its 99.8 per cent positive feedback rating on the site shows the service has been a hit.

However, the deal to sell ex-fleet models from three major leasing companies will make many more cars available to Internet buyers. Better still, all stock can be delivered nationwide, and the firm can also arrange extended warranties for added peace of mind.