Online auto dealership CarMax is the largest used car dealer in the United States. It offers access to over 50,000 used vehicles, plus 24-hour test drives and 30-day returns to help US car buyers find their next set of wheels.
If you’re looking for sites like CarMax in Canada, check out the alternatives to CarMax listed below.
No. CarMax may be a major player in the US market, but it’s not available in Canada. Any Canadian locations using the “CarMax” name is not affiliated with CarMax US.
If you want to buy a used car online in Canada, you’ll need to consider other options. The good news is that there are plenty of online car dealerships to choose from. Keep reading for a guide to alternatives to CarMax in Canada.
The Canadian platforms below let you buy a car online similar to CarMax.
Available in ON, NS and NB only
Founded in 2016, Clutch offers an online inventory of over 1000 used vehicles. After browsing the range of vehicles and selecting the one you want, Clutch will deliver it to your home. You then have a trial period of 10 days/750 km to drive the car and make sure it’s right for you. Each vehicle comes with a full CARFAX report. You can also apply for vehicle financing through the Clutch platform.
Launched in 2021, CarDoor is an online auto dealership based in Toronto. It provides access to an inventory of hundreds of vehicles, with free delivery and a trial period of 7 days/500 km. Cars on the platform come backed by a 90-day warranty and there’s a 60-day exchange program to ensure that you end up with the right vehicle. You can also access financing from multiple lenders through CarDoor, with online pre-approval provided within minutes.
Carnex is an online platform where you can buy and sell electric vehicles. Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Carnex offers online financing, the option of delivery or vehicle pick-up as well as a 10-day/720km return policy. Each vehicle in its inventory must pass a 170-point inspection and reconditioning process.
As the direct-to-consumer portal of Axis Auto Finance, DriveAxis offers what it describes as a “lender-driven” online car-buying experience. It does not have its own inventory and instead connects you to vehicles from dealerships around the country. The entire process is handled online, with fast financing approval and a seven-day return or exchange guarantee.
Online car dealers allow you to purchase your next vehicle from the comfort of your own home. You can browse and compare models online, plus apply for financing. The model you choose is then delivered to your home.
Most online auto dealers provide a trial period after your vehicle is delivered. This period is typically limited to 7–14 days and 500–1,000km, and it gives you a chance to drive the car in person and check that it works as promised. If you decide you’re not satisfied with your purchase during this period, you’ll usually be entitled to a free exchange or refund.
While some dealers also offer new cars for sale, most online car marketplaces stock used cars. Those vehicles generally tend to be late-model used cars from the previous 10 years.
Vehicles listed on these online marketplaces are not sold as is. They need to pass safety and reconditioning inspections before being put up for sale. You can find details of what’s covered in these inspections on the dealer’s website.
You can pay for your vehicle outright or apply for financing through the dealership. Dealers typically offer financing from a network of lenders, and you can fill out an online application in minutes to get pre-approval.
Most online car dealers also accept trade-ins when you purchase another car or if you just want to sell your car for cash. You’ll need to provide details such as the licence plate number, VIN and proof of ownership. The dealer will then provide you with an offer.
CarMax isn’t available in Canada, but there are plenty of other online auto dealerships that make it easy to buy a car without getting off your couch. Compare the vehicles, prices and features of a range of online dealers to find the best CarMax alternative and buy your next car.
How to buy a used electric vehicle online with Carnex, including how to choose a vehicle and find financing.
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If you’re thinking of buying a used car in the Greater Toronto Area, check out online car buying platform CarDoor.
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Compare the pros and cons of buying a car online vs at a dealership, and choose which option suits you best.