Everyone loves the convenience of online shopping. From fashion to groceries, being able purchase goods from your own home is an unmatched buying experience for many consumers. Does this easy, e-commerce method translate well across all markets? Here are some pros and cons of how digital dealing pairs with the automotive industry.

Pro: The variety of vehicles to choose from is much larger. When shopping online, you have access to listings from all over the country. This lets you broaden your search farther than just the dealerships around you and their inventory. Finding the exact make and model you are looking for has never been easier.

Con: Shipping can get expensive. Due to the nature of online retailing, your new, (or brand new to you), vehicle will need to be delivered to your location. That is easier said than done; with shipping costs $450-$1300, you may be out an arm and a leg while trying to connect with your sweet new ride.

Pro: There is more transparency. What you see is what you get. Many people dread having to talk about money face-to-face, especially when it comes to a big purchase like a vehicle. Having a posted price online that you are not forced to haggle over is a great feeling.

Con: There is less of a human feel. For a deal that can cost up to thousands and thousands of dollars, many consumers will want the personal touch that an in person dealership can add to the experience. Doing business of this caliber is still a new concept to many, and may feel more legitimate in a brick and mortar store.

Pro: You have more flexibility on where or when you shop. Feel like purchasing your new daily driver from the comfort of your own couch? Done. Want to browse inventory while on a lunch break at work? Done. Even though most digital dealerships will require purchases to be made during normal business hours, the advantage you get from being able to start the process at any time and from anywhere is unmatched.

Con: You can’t see the car in person. This is true for the most part. Online retailers will often provide a plethora of photos for the vehicle that you are interested in, some will even provide a test drive if you are close enough to the cars location. None of this can come close to spending as much time with a car as you want on the lot or showroom floor.

Purchasing a vehicle can be a long, frustrating process. Reynolds believes consumers should be able to choose how they would like to buy their car, whether they prefer in person, fully online, or a mixture of both. All car buyers should be able to retail anywhere, without sacrificing anything.