Online car buying. Know The Risks Before You Click.

The Truth About Buying Cars Online

Before you click that "Buy Now" button, discover what online retailers don't want you to know and why the McClinton experience makes all the difference.

48%
of online car buyers are unlikely to buy a car online in the future! [*]

The Real Risks of Online Car Buying

While online retailers promise convenience, they often hide these significant disadvantages that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind:

No Test Drive Experience
You can't truly know if a car is right for you without experiencing it firsthand. What feels comfortable in photos might be a painful commute on Parkersburg roads.
No Personal Guidance
Online platforms offer limited, often generic information, leaving you to figure out advanced systems and features on your own without expert assistance.
"Sight Unseen" Surprises
Photos can be misleading. Minor imperfections, undisclosed wear, or even lingering odors are common surprises with online vehicle purchases.
Service & Warranty Issues
Where do you turn for service or warranty issues with an online purchase? Local dealerships may be reluctant to service vehicles purchased elsewhere.
Hidden Fees & Returns
Delivery fees, processing fees, and restrictive return policies can turn an "easy" online purchase into a costly headache with unexpected expenses.
No Community Connection
Online retailers are faceless entities. McClinton Auto Group has served Mid-Ohio Valley families since 1915 with deep community roots.

The McClinton Auto Group Experience

100+
years of trusted local service
4.7/5
customer satisfaction rating
94%
Facebook recommendation rating
For over a century, we've built our reputation on relationships, not transactions. Here's what makes the McClinton difference:
Test drive experience
Personalized Test Drives
Experience vehicles on familiar roads with a knowledgeable team member to answer all your questions.
Experience Before You Decide
Service department
Expert Service Department
Our ASE-certified technicians provide maintenance and repairs for your vehicle's lifetime using genuine parts.
Lifetime Support Included
Transparent pricing
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees or surprises. We believe in honest dealings and straightforward financing options.
No Surprises Guaranteed

Still Thinking About Buying a Car Online?

Online Car Retailers

Limited or No Test Drive
You buy without experiencing how the car actually handles on roads you drive every day.
Distant Support Centers
Support limited to call centers with representatives who have never seen your vehicle.
Photos Only Inspection
You rely on generic photos and brief reports rather than seeing with your own eyes.
Complicated Returns
Restrictive policies, potential restocking fees, and time-consuming return shipping.
No Local Commitment
National corporations with no investment in the Mid-Ohio Valley community.

McClinton Auto Group

Comprehensive Test Drives
Experience your vehicle on local roads before making a decision.
Face-to-Face Expertise
Our knowledgeable team provides personalized guidance throughout your ownership.
In-Person Inspection
See, touch, and examine vehicles in person with complete history reports.
On-Site Service Center
ASE-certified technicians in Parkersburg provide expert service and support.
100+ Years of Local Trust
Four generations of family leadership serving the Mid-Ohio Valley since 1915.
Still have questions about online car buying?
See Our FAQ Section

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really cheaper to buy a car online? [*]

While online retailers may advertise low prices, they often add delivery fees, processing charges, and other hidden costs. At McClinton Auto Group, we offer transparent pricing with no surprises. Our financing experts work with multiple lenders to find competitive rates that often beat online retailers, and we can better value your trade-in after a proper in-person assessment.

What happens if I don't like the car I bought online?

Many online retailers offer return policies, but they come with significant restrictions and potential restocking fees. Returns can be complicated and time-consuming. At McClinton, you test drive before buying, explore all features with a knowledgeable salesperson, and make an informed decision, greatly reducing the chance of buyer's remorse.

How does online car buying affect my warranty and service options?

When purchasing online, service and warranty work often requires finding third-party providers or shipping your vehicle back to the seller. With McClinton Auto Group, our ASE-certified technicians are right here in Parkersburg, ready to handle maintenance, warranty claims, and repairs throughout your ownership experience. This local relationship provides convenience and peace of mind.

Are online car retailers more convenient than local dealerships?

While browsing online may seem convenient initially, the overall process of buying from a local dealership like McClinton Auto Group often proves more efficient. We handle paperwork, financing, trade-ins, and delivery all in one place. Plus, you won't face delays waiting for distant vehicles to be shipped, and you'll leave with complete confidence in your purchase after a proper test drive and inspection.

How reliable are the vehicle condition reports from online car retailers?

Online retailers rely on standardized photos and brief condition reports that may miss important details. At McClinton Auto Group, you can see, touch, and drive the actual vehicle. Our pre-owned vehicles undergo comprehensive inspections, and we provide full vehicle history reports for complete transparency. This in-person experience eliminates unpleasant surprises after purchase.

How much can I save buying a car online vs at a dealership ?

While online retailers often advertise potential savings, the reality is more complex. The advertised prices usually don't include delivery fees, processing charges, and other hidden costs that significantly reduce or eliminate those savings. At McClinton Auto Group, we offer transparent pricing with no surprises, competitive financing rates through our relationships with multiple lenders, and fair trade-in values based on in-person assessments. When all factors are considered, including the ability to negotiate in person, many customers find better overall value at our dealership.

The benefits of online car buying ?

While online car buying offers benefits like browsing inventory from home and streamlined paperwork, these advantages often come with significant trade-offs. What's missing is the ability to physically inspect and test drive before purchase, personalized financing options, proper trade-in valuation, and immediate local support. At McClinton Auto Group, we've combined the best of both worlds – you can browse our inventory online, but also visit us for a test drive, receive expert guidance from our staff, explore customized financing options, and establish a relationship with our service department for ongoing support throughout your ownership experience.

Experience the McClinton Difference Today

Don't leave your next vehicle purchase to chance. Visit McClinton Auto Group in Parkersburg for a transparent, personal, and trustworthy car buying experience.

Schedule a Test Drive

Experience our vehicles firsthand with no pressure or obligation.

Book Now

Call Us Today

Speak with one of our friendly team members about all your vehicle needs.

Call (304) 485-5421


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