Best Ways to Find Consumer Reviews for Autos

If you are in the market for a new vehicle, the best way to learn the positive and negative aspects is to talk with current owners.  Since it is difficult to talk to every person who owns a specific car, you may wish to read consumer reviews about the car.  These reviews should be considered and can be found in various locations.

• Talk to your family, friends and co-workers. Many people you know own cars and would be happy to tell you about their experiences.  Remember that everyone has their own opinion and if someone is willing to talk with you, be sure to listen to the facts and not just opinions.  You could also ask specific questions, “Why did you like it?”  “Would you buy the car again?” and “What is the worst part of the vehicle?”


• Read the reviews from ConsumerReports.com.  This magazine or website, whichever you prefer, will give you unbiased information about several different vehicles.  Advertisers cannot pay to be part of Consumer Reports, therefore, you should get reliable information based on general tests and facts.


• Use an online search engine to find consumer reviews.  You may want to search for a specific type of vehicle and read comments by current and previous owners.  The search results will be a list of links to get more information and reviews.


• Talk to reputable auto salespeople.  These people have access to hundreds of satisfied and unsatisfied customers.  They can tell you what people love and hate about certain cars.  To find a car salesperson in your area, search listings on MerchantCircle.