How to Buy a Car on Edmunds in 2026
Posted on 6/30/2026
5 min(s) to read
Author(s)
Table of Contents
- What is Edmunds?
- How does Edmunds work?
- Edmunds car buying guide
- Pros & cons of buying a car on Edmunds
- Edmunds customer reviews
- Frequently asked questions about Edmunds
- Does Edmunds have a mobile app?
- What are the Edmunds forums?
- How do I join Edmunds forums?
- Considerations for buying cars online
- Nationwide delivery for online car purchases
Edmunds is just one of many websites for buying and selling cars. It provides extensive information to help consumers research vehicles and make more informed purchase decisions. Below, learn more about Edmunds and how it can help you throughout your car-buying process.
Looking to sell a car on Edmunds? Reference this handy guide.
What is Edmunds?
Edmunds is a website and mobile app that shoppers use to research both new and used cars. Based on your search criteria, you can quickly find dozens of potential vehicles in your designated zip code. The site also provides appraisals for those looking to sell their cars. In 2021, CarMax purchased Edmunds, expanding its features and capabilities.
How does Edmunds work?
Edmunds works as a research tool and online marketplace for car buyers to discover, price, and purchase vehicles. One of Edmunds most notable features is the True Market Value (TMV) estimate, also known as Edmunds Suggested Price. The price is based on sales data from dealerships, including CarMax, and is designed to give buyers and sellers a clear idea of how much their car is worth.
In addition to browsing and pricing vehicles, Edmunds connects buyers with sellers and dealerships so they can complete the transaction or trade-in. Edmunds does not facilitate sales on its website; all sales are completed through dealerships or third-party websites.
Edmunds car buying guide
Researching, finding, and buying a car with Edmunds is simple.
1. Start your search
On the Edmunds homepage, you’ll have the option to shop for new and used cars, or browse by vehicle type (EV, SUV, truck, sedan, hybrid). If you’re looking for a particular vehicle, you can describe what you’re looking for in the search bar.
2. Filter your search
The results page will include all the potential listings that match your search criteria. From here, use Edmunds’ filtering options to narrow down the results. You can refine your search by location, make and model, mileage, Edmunds Review ratings, and more.
Tip: Creating an Edmunds Insider account will allow you to save listings and searches, and get notifications about price drops or new inventory matches.
3. Browse vehicle listings
Click on a vehicle in the results page to view its listing. Listing pages may look different for new and used vehicles.
- If you’re looking for a new model, you’ll first be taken to an overview page that features images, ratings, pricing, and more.
- If you’re looking for a used car, you’ll be taken right to the listings, which feature dealership location, vehicle history, mileage, and features.
4. Contact the seller or dealer
Once you’ve found a specific vehicle you’re interested in, you’ll either click “Get Dealer’s Best Price” for a new vehicle, or “Check Availability” for a used model.
Either path will take you to a pop-up page requesting your first and last name—which will then be shared with the dealership. Alternatively, you can call or text the dealership directly to begin the purchase process.
5. Arrange payment and vehicle delivery
The remainder of the process will be done with the dealership or individual seller, either over the phone or in person. Edmunds does not provide car shipping, but they will help connect buyers with independent shippers and dealerships that offer home delivery. The availability and pricing of these delivery options will depend on the provider, making them unpredictable.
Professional auto transport is a convenient and reliable way to get any vehicle delivered to your door, anywhere in the country.
Pros & cons of buying a car on Edmunds
Pros:
- Ability to search both new and used cars
- Offers monthly loan payment calculators
- Does their own testing to inform reviews and ratings
- No buyer’s fees
Cons:
- Can’t buy directly through Edmunds; the site checks availability at dealerships
- Few customer reviews for vehicle models and dealerships
- No guaranteed car shipping services
Edmunds customer reviews
Edmunds is considered a reliable tool for researching and appraising vehicles. However, customers complain that the actual buying process can be misleading and that Edmunds shares their contact information with dealerships.
“I think Edmunds is highly reliable for what it does. It is my number one source for obtaining in-depth information about new and used vehicles and also pricing on those vehicles. I think it's absolutely outstanding what they do and all free of charge. That's totally insane for all the valuable information they gather. If I know someone who is looking to buy a vehicle, I always direct them to Edmunds where they'll get all the necessary information needed before purchasing the vehicle.”
★★★★★
Winnie, March 2026 (Consumer Affairs)
“I frequently use Edmunds to get independent information for both new and used cars. Recently I tried to get comparative pricing for Hyundai and Nissan new car models. Before Edmunds would show me specific pricing information, I was required to enter both my phone and email, with the expressed promise that my information would not be shared with any dealership unless I specifically authorized them to do so. I did not. Less than 5 minutes after I left the site I was inundated with phone calls, texts and emails from local dealers.”
★★★
Larry, Sept. 2025 (Consumer Affairs)
“This website is only about generating leads to car dealerships. The estimated Vehicle Appraisal Report shows retail values instead of real trade allowance values. They only care to show high numbers to generate traffic and sell the client information to car dealers.”
★
Mauricio, Nov. 2025 (Trustpilot)
Frequently asked questions about Edmunds
Is Edmunds legit?
Yes, Edmunds is a trustworthy resource for browsing, appraising, shopping, and selling vehicles. It is used by millions of customers across the United States, including dealerships and private sellers. Like with any online sales platform, remember to research your options carefully and pay close attention to the vehicle and seller details.
Tip: Avoid these 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Car Online
What kind of information can I find on Edmunds?
Edmunds features robust information about both new and used vehicles, including:
- Make, model and year
- Exterior and interior colors
- Features (e.g., back-up camera, sunroof, AWD, safety, and entertainment)
- Seating
- Miles per gallon
- Mileage
- History (accidents, number of owners)
How accurate is Edmunds used car appraisal tool?
The Edmunds appraisal tool, also called the Edmunds Suggested Price or True Market Value, is generally very accurate. It’s important to understand that these values can fluctuate depending on vehicle condition, vehicle history, additional features, and even local and regional market conditions. When researching car values, it’s best to compare results from multiple sources, like Kelley Blue Book and eBay Motors.
Tip: Learn the 3 Things to Look for in a Used Car Appraisal
Does Edmunds have a mobile app?
Yes, the Edmunds app is available on iOS and Android devices. The app is largely the same as the web version of the platform, allowing users to research, browse, appraise, and shop for vehicles.
What are the Edmunds forums?
The Edmunds forums are an online space hosted by Edmunds for car buyers, owners, sellers, and enthusiasts to discuss vehicles and vehicle sales. Users often discuss vehicle rebates, prices, trade-in values, and exchange negotiating and financing advice.
How do I join Edmunds forums?
You first need to have an Edmunds Insider account to join the Edmunds forums. After creating an Edmunds Insider account, go to the Edmunds forums and follow the “Join/Sign In” instructions at the top of the page.
Who owns Edmunds?
CarMax purchased Edmunds in 2021.
Where is Edmunds headquarters?
The Edmunds headquarters is in Santa Monica, California. It also has an office in downtown Detroit, Michigan.
Considerations for buying cars online
Market trends
When you’re looking for a new or used vehicle, it’s helpful to be aware of current market trends so you can identify a good deal and avoid overpaying. Platforms like Edmunds make it easy to see the availability of certain vehicles and how they are priced by various sellers.
Regulatory changes
Regulatory changes like taxes and interstate purchase laws often impact online car sales. While it’s fairly easy to find a vehicle in your area with Edmunds, it’s important to understand the legal landscape to ensure a smooth transaction. Be sure to brush up on local laws and regulations while you shop for your vehicle.
Environmental impact
If you decide to buy a used car, you’ll lessen the impact on the environment. Shopping online further reduces the need for travel to and from dealerships, and can help customers find vehicles in other states that might have otherwise gone unused. When you buy a used vehicle, you reduce manufacturing demands and landfill impact, lowering your carbon footprint.
Nationwide delivery for online car purchases
If you need to transport your purchased car to your home or other location, consider a professional auto transport company. Montway Auto Transport offers easy and reliable car shipping services to all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii.
Learn how auto transport works and see car shipping costs. Speak with a Montway car shipping agent at 888-666-8929 or get started with a free instant quote.
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