If you are searching for a nearly new or used car then you probably have just two main aims - getting the right car for the right price. Traditional search methods include browsing through local newspaper's classified ads section and visiting numerous independent garages and dealerships. If your brief is specific then a search using these traditional methods can be laborious and time consuming.

Today the Internet is changing the way people buy their cars. From the convenience of your own home you can search locally, nationally and even internationally for your next car with results delivered to your computer within seconds.

Car dealerships across the country have all recognised the importance of advertising their stock online. Thousands of independent garages as well as franchised dealers now advertise all their used cars online and have a range of photos to provide you with a visual guide to the car in question. You will commonly be informed of the age, mileage and other important features of the car and will almost certainly be presented with the selling price.

Remember - The Internet is not only for buyers. Private sellers are also benefiting from the increased popularity of online selling. Popular sites such as eBay and gumtree now have specific classified ads sections dedicated to car sales. If you are thinking of selling your car then using an online classified site is a great way of advertising your vehicle to the widest possible audience.

Some of the best car selling websites allow you to easily refine your search criteria, so if you are looking for a specific make of car, for sale within a specific distance from your home, with a certain age, mileage and even colour you can specify these requirements so you will only be presented with results of interest.

In addition to finding your next car online you should also use the Internet as a tool to research the car more thoroughly. Before you decide to buy you should research the following:

- The guide price of the car based on its age, mileage, specification and condition
- The fuel consumption and emission figures
- Approximate service costs
- If the car has ever been reported as stolen or declared and insurance write off.

Without even taking a test drive you can gain a "feel" for the car by reading through the thousands of user reviews that can quickly be found online.

There are a number of popular sites that can do all of the above in a few simple steps and buy doing a little research online before you make your purchase you are likely to be a better informed and more confident buyer. Try and consult informative websites, such as What Car? and Auto Trader. They will provide you with a wealth of car reviews and target buy prices. Once you know which car you want to buy and how much you want to pay for it you can use the Internet to find the best online dealer for that particular model. Remember to be patient and thorough and your hard work will eventually pay off!