Clutch

Smarter Loans Expert Review for Clutch

Reviewed by: Vlad Sherbatov, Personal Finance Analyst at Smarter Loans

Our Take

Clutch is not a traditional auto lender. It is a fully online used car retailer that combines vehicle shopping, financing, delivery, and even selling or trading in your existing car into one streamlined digital experience. Since launching in 2017, Clutch has positioned itself as a modern alternative to the dealership model, removing many of the pain points Canadians associate with buying or selling a car.

What makes Clutch stand out is convenience. Customers can browse hundreds of used vehicles online, apply for financing, complete paperwork, and have the car delivered directly to their door. The inclusion of a 10-day money-back guarantee adds a layer of confidence that is rare in the used car market.

Clutch’s financing is integrated into the buying experience rather than offered as a standalone product, making it best viewed as an all-in-one platform rather than just a lender.

Who Clutch Works Best For

Clutch works best for Canadians who value simplicity, transparency, and time savings when buying or selling a vehicle. If you prefer to avoid dealerships, negotiations, and in-person paperwork, Clutch’s end-to-end online process is a strong fit.

It is also well suited for buyers who want financing options without shopping lenders themselves. Clutch works with multiple major Canadian financial institutions, allowing customers to access competitive auto loan options through a single application.

Clutch may be less suitable for buyers who want to inspect or test drive multiple vehicles in person before committing, or for those who prefer negotiating price face to face at a dealership.

What We Like

The user experience is Clutch’s biggest strength. From browsing inventory to checkout and delivery, the process is designed to be straightforward and low friction. Financing pre-approval takes less than a minute and gives buyers a clear sense of affordability before choosing a vehicle.

We also like the transparency around pricing. Any service or shipping fees are clearly disclosed on each vehicle’s listing page, and there is no haggling. What you see is what you pay.

The selling and trade-in process is another standout feature. Getting an instant cash offer online, with payment via electronic funds transfer within one to three business days, removes much of the uncertainty and stress typically involved in selling a car privately.

Where Clutch Could Improve

Because Clutch is a marketplace and retailer rather than a direct lender, financing terms and interest rates can vary depending on the lender you are matched with. Buyers will not know their exact rate until they complete a financing application.

Fees can also vary by province. While Ontario customers avoid a service fee, buyers in some other provinces will see additional charges. These are disclosed upfront, but they are still an added cost to factor in.

Finally, while the 10-day money-back guarantee provides reassurance, some buyers may still prefer a traditional test drive before committing to a purchase.

Is Clutch Right For You?

Clutch is an excellent option if you want a modern, hassle-free way to buy or sell a used car in Canada. It combines vehicle selection, financing, delivery, and trade-ins into a single online journey, which can save significant time and effort.

If you value transparency, convenience, and digital-first experiences, Clutch delivers on its promise. However, if you prefer hands-on shopping or negotiating in person, a traditional dealership may feel more comfortable.

For Canadians ready to rethink how they buy and sell cars, Clutch offers a compelling alternative to the old model.

Alternatives to Clutch

• Car Loans Canada

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