Shopping for a used car in London, Ontario offers plenty of options, whether you prefer visiting local dealerships or browsing inventory online from the comfort of home. London’s unique mix of urban living, suburban neighbourhoods, and rural outskirts means drivers here need vehicles that can handle everything from downtown commutes to snowy country roads.

With major routes like the 401 and 402 connecting London to the rest of Southwestern Ontario, and an average snowfall of nearly 200 cm each winter, it’s no surprise that versatile vehicles like SUVs, trucks, and fuel-efficient sedans are among the most popular choices for local drivers.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best places to buy a used car in London, including well-known local dealerships and fully online alternatives like Clutch. We’ll also share insights on the most popular vehicles in London, insurance tips, and everything you need to know about registering your new ride in the region.

Top Used Car Dealerships in London

If you prefer the traditional dealership experience—test driving cars, walking the lot, and negotiating in person—London has several well-known used car dealerships to explore. Here are some of the top-rated options in the area:

Finch Auto Group‍

Address: Multiple locations in London, including 640 Wonderland Rd N and 658 Wharncliffe Rd S

Finch Auto Group is a prominent automotive dealer in London, operating several dealerships under its umbrella, such as Finch Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC, Finch Hyundai, Finch Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, and more. They offer a vast inventory of new and used vehicles across various brands, along with services like instant trade value assessments and a dedicated collision centre.

Empire Auto Group‍

Addresses: 2293 Dundas St E, London, ON N5V 1R4 and 282 Springbank Dr, London, ON N6J 1E9

Family-owned and operated for over 25 years, Empire Auto Group specializes in pre-owned vehicles, offering a diverse selection to meet various preferences and budgets. They are known for their commitment to honesty and customer satisfaction.

Oxford Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram‍

Address: 1249 Hyde Park Rd, London, ON N6H 5K6

Established in 1978, Oxford Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram offers a wide selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models. They provide comprehensive services, including parts, express service, and financing options.

Leavens Volkswagen‍

Address: 2360 Auto Mall Ave, London, ON N5V 0B4

Serving the London area for over 65 years, Leavens Volkswagen is a family-run dealership offering new and certified pre-owned Volkswagen vehicles. They provide a range of services, including maintenance and parts, and are known for their customer-centric approach.

Courtesy Ford Lincoln‍

Address: 684 Wharncliffe Rd S, London, ON N6J 2N7

Part of the Eansor Auto Group, Courtesy Ford Lincoln has been serving the London community for over 24 years. They offer a comprehensive selection of new and pre-owned Ford and Lincoln vehicles, along with services like financing, parts, and maintenance.

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While dealerships offer the chance to see vehicles up close and negotiate on price, the process can be time-consuming. Inventory is limited to what’s available on the lot, and prices can vary depending on how comfortable you are with negotiation.

For drivers looking for a more convenient, transparent experience, buying a used car online is another option.

Buying a Used Car Online in London

While traditional dealerships remain a popular choice for many buyers, more and more Londoners are turning to online car buying platforms for added convenience, transparent pricing, and a hassle-free experience.

Clutch is one such platform, offering a fully online car shopping process from start to finish—with a local touch right here in London:

• Browse Inventory Online:
  Access a wide selection of used vehicles, all thoroughly inspected and reconditioned, directly from your phone or computer.
• No Haggling, Upfront Pricing:
  Every vehicle is listed with a fixed, transparent price—eliminating the need for negotiations.
• Free CARFAX Report & 210-Point Inspection:
  Each vehicle comes with a free CARFAX history report and has undergone a rigorous 210-point inspection, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
• Local Pop-Up Location in London:
  Prefer to drop off your trade-in or pick up your next car in person? Visit Clutch’s London pop-up location here. This gives you the flexibility of in-person service with the convenience of an online experience.
• Delivery to Your Doorstep:
  Whether you’re in downtown London or nearby communities like St. Thomas or Woodstock, Clutch offers home delivery straight to your driveway.
• 10-Day Money-Back Guarantee:
  Take your time with a 10-day test ownership period. If it’s not the right fit, return it for a full refund—no questions asked.
• Trade-In and Financing Options:
  Get an instant offer for your trade-in and secure financing online, all without the pressure of in-person sales tactics.

For London drivers looking to skip the dealership visit, enjoy flexible options, and shop confidently from home (or at our local pop-up), Clutch offers a modern, transparent alternative to traditional car buying.

Top-Selling Used Cars in London

Curious what your neighbours in London are driving? Based on 2024 sales data, these are the most popular used vehicles among London buyers. From reliable sedans to versatile SUVs and trucks, this list reflects the mix of urban and rural driving needs across the region:

1. Honda Civic:
A favourite for city commuters and students alike, the Civic is known for its fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordable maintenance.

2. Honda CR-V:
A compact SUV that’s ideal for London’s snowy winters and weekend getaways, offering all-wheel drive and plenty of cargo space.

3. Toyota RAV4:
Another popular SUV that balances fuel economy with capability, perfect for navigating everything from downtown streets to rural roads.

4. Ford Escape:
A Canadian-made compact SUV with a smooth ride, practical size, and available all-wheel drive for year-round confidence.

5. Hyundai Elantra:
A budget-friendly sedan with modern tech features and solid fuel efficiency—great for commuting along the 401 or through the city.

6. Toyota Corolla:
A dependable sedan that offers peace of mind with its reputation for longevity and low operating costs.

7. Volkswagen Tiguan:
A compact SUV with a European flair, offering a refined interior, responsive handling, and available all-wheel drive.

8. Nissan Rogue:
One of Canada’s best-selling SUVs, the Rogue delivers comfort, space, and fuel efficiency—well-suited for families and commuters alike.

9. Mazda Mazda3:
A stylish sedan or hatchback with sporty handling and upscale interiors, popular among younger drivers and city dwellers.

10. Ram 1500:
For those who need a capable truck for work or recreation, the Ram 1500 stands out for its towing capacity, comfort, and power.

Whether you’re commuting through London’s downtown, navigating snowy side roads, or heading out to the cottage, these vehicles represent the best mix of reliability, versatility, and value for local drivers.

Driving in London: What to Consider

London’s unique blend of urban streets, suburban sprawl, and rural surroundings means your choice of vehicle should match the local driving conditions. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind when shopping for a used car in London:

Winter Weather

• London averages about 194 cm of snowfall per year, making winter tires and all-wheel drive important features for safe driving.
• Popular compact SUV choices like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue offer all-wheel drive to handle slippery roads and heavy snowfalls.

Highway and City Commuting

• With major highways like the 401 and 402 running through the city, many drivers face a mix of stop-and-go traffic and long-distance commutes.
• Fuel-efficient sedans ready for commuting like the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, and Mazda3 offer excellent gas mileage without sacrificing comfort.

Rural Roads and Towing Needs

• If you venture outside the city toward areas like St. Thomas, Woodstock, or the surrounding farmland, a truck or SUV with higher ground clearance and towing capability might be a better fit.
• The Ram 1500 stands out for its power and towing capacity, while SUVs like the Ford Escape and Volkswagen Tiguan offer versatile cargo space for weekend getaways.

Parking and City Navigation

• If you spend most of your time in downtown London, where parking can be tighter, compact SUVs or sedans offer better manoeuvrability and easier parking.

Insurance Costs in London

Compared to larger urban centres like Toronto, insurance premiums in London, Ontario tend to be more affordable. On average, drivers in London pay around $1,500 per year for car insurance.

That’s significantly lower than the $2,000+ average seen in Toronto and other parts of the GTA, making London a bit more budget-friendly when it comes to overall car ownership costs.

What Affects Your Insurance Rate in London?

• Vehicle type:
  SUVs and trucks like the Ford Escape or Ram 1500 may carry different premiums than sedans like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla based on repair costs and safety ratings.
• Driving history:
  A clean record helps keep rates lower, while tickets or accidents can push premiums higher.
• Coverage level:
  Your choice between basic liability coverage and comprehensive coverage also impacts your rate.
• Where you live within London:
  Neighbourhoods with higher traffic volumes or theft rates can slightly influence your premium.

Before finalizing your purchase, it’s a good idea to get a few insurance quotes—especially if you’re switching to a different vehicle type. Some cars on London’s top-selling list, like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, are known for lower insurance costs due to strong safety ratings and lower theft rates.

Registering Your Car in London

After purchasing a used car in London, you’ll need to register it with ServiceOntario to legally drive on public roads. Here’s what you need to know about the registration process:

What You’ll Need:

• Vehicle permit (ownership)
• Proof of insurance
• Safety standards certificate (for vehicles purchased privately)
• Emissions test (only required for heavy-duty diesel vehicles)

If you’re buying from Clutch, most of these steps—like the safety certification and ownership transfer—are handled for you.

ServiceOntario Locations in London:

Here are a few convenient spots where you can register your vehicle or pick up plates:

1. 51 Dundas St W, London, ON N6B 1H7 (downtown)
2. 509 Commissioners Rd W, London, ON N6J 1Y5 (Westmount)
3. 316 Rectory St, London, ON N5W 3V9 (near East London)

Most locations allow you to book an appointment online to save time.

Buying Online with Clutch?

If you purchase a vehicle from Clutch, we’ll handle:

• Ownership transfer
• Safety certification
• Delivery to your door or pop-up pickup

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Find the Right Used Car for You in London

Whether you’re navigating snowy backroads, commuting along the 401, or simply cruising around downtown London, choosing the right used car is all about finding a vehicle that fits your lifestyle. From reliable sedans like the Honda Civic to versatile SUVs like the Toyota RAV4, London drivers have plenty of great options.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to buy a used car, skip the dealership and explore vehicles available in London on Clutch. Browse a wide selection of high-quality used vehicles online, get a free CARFAX report and 210-point inspection with every car, and enjoy the convenience of home delivery or pickup at our London pop-up location. Plus, with our 10-day money-back guarantee, you can shop with confidence knowing you’ve made the right choice.