Types of Car Dealers

Car dealers come in all shapes and sizes, from small family-run businesses to large corporate franchises. Each type of dealership has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.

Why is it Important to Choose the Right Car Dealership

When you’re in the market for a new car, it’s important to choose the right dealership. Not all dealerships are created equal, and selecting the wrong one can lead to a frustrating experience. Finding the right dealership that offers the right type of car loan to fit your unique situation is the key to a successful car buying journey.

Here are some things to keep in mind when making your selection:

• Do your research: Read online reviews and talk to friends and family to get their recommendations.
• Consider location: It’s important to choose a dealership that’s convenient for you. If you live in a rural area, it may not make sense to drive an hour to the nearest dealership.
• Compare prices: Don’t just assume that the dealership with the lowest prices is the best option. In many cases, you’ll get what you pay for in terms of service and selection.
• Evaluate the sales staff: The sales staff should be knowledgeable and helpful, without being pushy. Take your time test-driving different vehicles to get a feel for the dealership before making your purchase.

By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be more likely to find a dealership that’s a good fit for you and your needs.

You may be thinking that this can be a tedious and time consuming process – it can be. That’s why we work with a large network of dealership contacts to help take some of the research out of your car buying journey and match you with a dealer to fit your needs!

Franchise Car Dealerships

The most common type of dealership is the franchised dealership. These are typically attached to a specific car manufacturer, such as Ford, Chrysler, or Toyota. Franchised dealerships tend to have the widest selection of cars and the best access to auto financing options. However, they also tend to be more expensive than other types of dealerships.

Learn more about Franchise Dealerships ->

Independent Car Dealerships

Independent dealerships are not affiliated with any particular manufacturer. As a result, they usually carry a more diverse range of cars, including both new and used models. Independent dealerships may be less expensive than franchised dealerships, but they may also have less negotiating power when it comes to financing.

Learn more about Independent Dealerships ->

Alternative Types of Car Dealerships

Outside of the primary dealership types – franchise and independently owned – there are several other types of dealerships and car buying experiences that can be considered.

Online Car Dealerships

Online car dealerships are a type of business that allows customers to purchase vehicles entirely online. These businesses typically have an extensive inventory of new and used cars, trucks, and SUVs, which can be browsed on the dealership’s website.

Customers can usually narrow down their search by make, model, price, and other parameters. Once they’ve found a vehicle they’re interested in, they can submit an inquiry to the dealership. A salesperson will then contact them to discuss pricing, financing options, and other details.

In some cases, it may even be possible to complete the entire purchase process without ever setting foot in the dealership. Online car dealerships offer a convenient way to shop for vehicles from the comfort of your own home.

Buy-Here, Pay-Here Dealerships

Another type of dealership is the buy-here-pay-here dealership. These dealerships finance the purchase of the car themselves, which can be a good option for buyers with poor credit. However, these deals often come with higher interest rates and may require a larger down payment.

Car Superstores

A car superstore is a large dealership that specializes in selling new and used cars. These dealerships are typically much larger than a traditional car dealership, and they often sell a wide variety of makes and models.

Car superstores typically have a large selection of vehicles in stock, and they often offer competitive pricing. In addition, car superstores often provide financing options and extended warranties. As a result, car superstores can be a great option for those who are looking for a new or used car.

However, it is important to research a car superstore before making a purchase, as some may not be reputable. Additionally, it is important to compare prices between different car superstores to ensure that you are getting the best deal possible.