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Can You Trade In A Buy Here Pay Here Car?

Several years ago, you discovered the wonders of a buy here pay here dealership and purchased your first car using on the lot financing. Since you’d had some credit issues in the past, this was a great option for you; you were able to get a car when no conventional dealership or bank would have loaned you the money. You’ve now driven it for several years and it’s been a great car, but you’re getting a little bored with it. Maybe it’s time for a change. And now you’re wondering…

Can You Trade In A Buy Here Pay Here Car?

The short answer is YES. Once you’ve purchased a car at a buy here pay here car lot, it’s yours. You can drive it forever, trade it, or sell it to a friend. If you decide to trade it in on new wheels, the rules are pretty much the same as if you’d purchased the car from a traditional car dealership. You have to be caught up on your payments, and you have to have enough equity built up so that you’re not upside down on your loan.

What Does Being “Upside-Down” On A Loan Mean?

When you’re upside down in a loan, it means you owe more on the car than the vehicle is worth. If this is the case, you’ll have a hard time finding anyone interested in taking your car as a trade-in. Before you decide to trade in your buy here pay here car, you need to do a little research to determine the approximate worth of your vehicle and then compare that to the amount you still owe to see where you stand.

buy here pay here dealer

There are several ways to figure out the approximate value of your buy here pay here car. One of the most common ways is to use online sites like NADA and Kelley Blue Book. These sites have forms you can fill out online to provide information about the make and model, features and options, mileage, and the condition of your vehicle. Based on the information you provide, they’ll come back with an estimated price range if you were to trade the car in. If online isn’t your thing, you can also take your car to local dealers to have it appraised. But you need that estimated value. Take that estimated value and subtract what you still owe on your car. If the number is positive, you’re set to go. If it’s negative…read on.

If You’re Upside Down On Your Car Loan, You Have A Few Options.

If what you owe on the car is more than the approximate value of the car as determined by your research, you probably haven’t owned the car long enough to build up any equity. Or…you may have missed a few payments. But you do have options, even if this is the case.

  1. Hold off on the purchase of your new wheels until you have positive equity in the vehicle. In other words, keep making your payments until the amount you owe is significantly lower than the estimated value of the car. That gap between the estimated value and what you owe is your equity in the car. But the amount you owe has to be the smaller number to get anyone interested in your trade-in.
  2. Pay down the difference if you can. If you owe more on the car than your research says it’s worth, muster up all your extra pennies and put them toward paying down what you owe. The goal here is to get the amount you owe paid down so that you’ll have something to work with when you take your car to trade.
  3. Roll it over if the dealer allows. If you’re buying your new car at a buy here pay here dealership, you could be in luck. However, not all dealerships let customers roll negative equity loans over. In this situation, you would be rolling the negative amount from your research above (the amount you still owe to get to the car’s estimated current value) into the loan for the new vehicle. Essentially you’d be paying for part of your old car with the new loan. This probably isn’t the best solution, especially if you’ve had credit issues in the past. This process will end up costing you more money in interest over the life of the new loan.

What If I’m “Right-Side-Up” On My Loan?

If you’ve made payments on your buy here pay here car long enough that you have some equity built up, then good for you! You’re ready to go shopping. The buy here pay here car lot that you originally purchased from is a great place to start. They already know your current car; they’ve seen it before, so they may give you a better deal on it. But you should be able to trade your car at any dealership. Just make sure you let them know that you’re aware of its approximate value. This will help you get the best price for your trade-in.

Have You Been Holding Off?

If you’ve been holding off on shopping for a used car at a buy here pay here car lot because you were afraid you’d be stuck with the car forever, think again. You can still trade in a buy here pay here car when you’re ready – if you have enough equity in it.

AutoMax Buy Here Pay Here Dealership In NC.

They’ve been in the buy here pay here car business for 30 years, serving customers in Henderson, Youngsville, Raleigh, and Durham. One of the reasons that sets AutoMax apart in the industry is the relationships they build with their customers. AutoMax’s sales folks are always happy to answer questions, and they don’t consider any question too silly. If you still find yourself with questions about trading in your buy here pay here car, stop by for a visit at AutoMax’s dealerships in Henderson or Youngsville. They’ll be happy to help you through the process.

Pay Here Buy Here or Buy Here Pay Here? Is There a Difference?

Anyone who’s in the market to buy a new car in Raleigh, Durham, Youngsville, or Henderson, North Carolina, will find a plethora of car dealerships calling their name. Not only are there multitudinous new car dealerships on the market, but there are also many used car dealerships, as well. And to make things more confusing and overwhelming, there are also dealerships that don’t quite seem to fit into either category. Buy here pay here dealerships have popped up everywhere, seemingly overnight, and now you’re starting to hear about pay here buy here car lots, too. What gives?

Are You Feeling Confused?

It’s understandable. Buying a car is a big decision, and you want it to be right. You have to determine whether you want to buy a new car or a used one. While new cars are shiny and – well, new – and have many benefits, used cars also have some things going for them. They’re a good choice for those on a budget, because they’re usually less expensive. You can get more car for your money when you buy used. They’re also a good choice for people with bad credit.

So Where Do You Start Your Car Search?

People with bad credit swear by buy here pay here dealerships. Sometimes they go by the reverse name: pay here buy here car lots. But regardless of what you call them, they’re basically the same thing. These dealerships specialize in helping customers who have bad credit get into a used car that fits their budget. But these dealerships don’t just work with people who have credit challenges. They’ll sell a used car to anyone who walks in looking for a used vehicle – one that’s solid, reliable, and has been checked out by factory-trained certified technicians to make sure it’s safe to drive.

Pay Here Buy Here Car Dealership

What Is A Buy Here Pay Here Dealership?

Great question! A buy here pay here dealership operates pretty much as the name implies. You buy a car at the dealership, and you make your payments there, too. These dealers work a bit differently than new car dealerships. With a buy here pay here dealership, you may get to skip the credit check, which is what makes these dealerships so appealing to those with bad credit or no credit history at all. There’s a much lower embarrassment factor, too, because your risk of getting turned down for a loan is nearly nonexistent.

A buy here pay here dealer loans you the money for the car you purchase, rather than you having to get a loan from a bank. Many people don’t know this, but even when you finance a vehicle at a traditional dealership, the money still comes from a bank or other lending institution. Sometimes it comes from the car manufacturer’s own finance division, which uses the same rules as banks do to determine loan eligibility. When you go the pay here buy here route, you bypass those restrictions and walk out with the car you’ve chosen.

Sounds Great, But Are These Dealers Really Legit?

Buy here pay here dealerships sometimes get a bad rap, but they’re legitimate car dealerships. They just work a little differently than traditional new car dealerships do. Buy here pay here dealers have to follow some of the same federal and local lending guidelines that conventional dealers do; they just have more leeway in their lending practices because they fund the loans themselves instead of using a bank. That’s why you make your payments to the dealership. The money goes out, so it needs to come back in, too, so others like you can get loans for their new cars.

I Want To Work With A Dealership That’s Reliable, Trustworthy, And Has A Good Reputation.

Of course you do! If you’re anywhere near Youngsville or Henderson, North Carolina, AutoMax is a great place to start your search. They have car lots in both cities and also service the Raleigh and Durham metropolitan markets. They’re one of the biggest buy here pay here dealerships in North Carolina, and they have an excellent reputation for developing real relationships with their customers. They genuinely love what they do – helping people buy “new” used cars they can afford.

AutoMax finances 100% of the vehicles they sell – and they sell a lot! They have a sizeable inventory of late-model cars and trucks to fit every lifestyle and every budget. They’ll work with you – if you want them to – to help you figure out how much car you can afford. Then they’ll guide you to the vehicles that fit your budget. They want you to be successful with your car purchase. It makes them successful, too.

Here’s The Kicker…

Loan approval at AutoMax is guaranteed. Yes, you heard that right. Guaranteed loan approval. Even if you have a good credit score, that’s still awesome news! Since AutoMax is handling all the financing for you, the car-buying process goes more quickly than you might expect. And it’s sped up even more when you go online and fill out their credit application before you visit the dealership. By doing that, you’ll have a good idea of how much car you can afford, so when you come in to start looking and test driving, you’ve already limited your choices to those that fit within your budget.

So Many Names, But It’s All The Same Thing!

Whether you call it a pay here buy here car lot or a buy here pay here car dealership, it’s all the same thing. These dealerships are sometimes also referred to as on-the-lot financing dealerships or “we finance” dealerships. Regardless of what you call it, it’s a viable way to buy a used car, especially if you have bad credit.

Stop in at AutoMax the next time you’re in the neighborhood and look around. These experts are happy to answer any questions you have and help you find a car that fits your budget and circumstances. You’ll be on the road in no time!

What Makes Buy Here Pay Here Car Lots Different from Others?

Buying a used car can be a frustrating experience. You’re a busy person, and finding time to shop around to find a quality used car that’s right for you can be a real pain. There’s also the issue of price. Let’s face it, you need a vehicle with a payment you can afford, and if you’ve had credit issues in the past, there’s a good chance that you’ll get turned down for a car loan. And that’s just plain depressing.

There is an easier way.

Buy here pay here car lots are the answer. If you’ve never considered using a buy here pay here car dealership, you might want to. There are many differences between conventional car dealerships and buy here pay here car lots. The latter takes the hassle out of getting an auto loan. You won’t believe how easy these dealerships make the used car buying process. No red tape, no hoops to jump through.

Here’s What Makes A Buy Here Pay Here Car Lot Different.

If you’re in the market for a new car, do a Google search for buy here pay here car lots near me. You’ll be surprised at how many pop up in the search results. Here are just a few of the things that make these dealerships different from traditional car dealerships.

Guaranteed Approval.

Buy Here Pay Here Car Lots

Unlike new car dealerships, most buy here pay here car lots – like AutoMax in Henderson and Youngsville, North Carolina – either do not require a credit check or do not use it to approve you. Everyone is approved, even if they’ve had credit problems in the past. And pre-qualification is easy, too. Take a few minutes to get pre-qualified online, and you’ll be able to walk into the dealership with confidence, knowing that you can get a loan for your new vehicle. It may sound too good to be true, but buy here pay here car dealerships are an excellent solution for people who need help getting a car loan because of bad credit.

No Need For A Bank.

Buy here pay here car dealerships replace the bank. They actually loan you the money themselves, and that enables them to be more flexible with down payments and monthly payments. There’s no need for you to chase around town trying to find a bank or credit union that will loan you the money. Buy here pay here dealers like AutoMax partner with you to come up with a financing option that meets your unique situation. And since they have their own rules and guidelines about who they lend money to, they can help you get into a vehicle with payments you can afford.

A Quick And Painless Process.

Getting a car loan from a buy here pay here car dealership not only saves you time, but it also keeps the process really simple. No lengthy questionnaires or paperwork are needed to get approval for your loan; the whole process is streamlined. These people have it down to a science because they do it every day.

At AutoMax, you can get pre-approved by using an online form. Then visit either of their dealerships – in Henderson or Youngsville – to complete the sale. You’ll need to bring some information with you – things like a valid driver’s license, two recent pay stubs, one current utility bill – just to prove you are who you say you are. They’ll take it from there. The process is quick, easy, and hassle-free.

Plenty Of Ways To Pay.

Most buy here pay here car dealerships give their customers plenty of ways to make their payments. They do this to make it convenient for their customers, but also because they don’t want customers to have any excuses for not making payments. The success of the business depends on the success of its customers.

AutoMax gives its customers the following ways to pay:

  • Automatic charge to your Debit Card
  • Automatic withdrawal from your checking account
  • Mail
  • Phone
  • Text
  • Online payment portal
  • Voice-response system
  • In person

Often, you can choose your own payment date so that it fits in with everything else you have to pay each month. By planning your payment date and selecting the most convenient payment method, you can be sure you’ll never be late or miss a payment.

Jump-Start Your Credit Score.

When you work with buy here pay here car lots, you have a chance to start rebuilding your credit score. Most of these dealerships want to see their customers be successful financially, so they report on-time payments each month to one or more of the top consumer credit reporting agencies. A good payment record looks good to other lenders and can help rebuild your credit score back to an acceptable level. This is helpful if you ever need to get a loan for a large-ticket item in the future.

Large Inventory Of Vehicles To Choose From.

Buy here pay here car lots are usually loaded with good-quality used vehicles that have been sourced from all over the region. These dealerships have their feelers out all the time, looking for used vehicles that need a good home. AutoMax has a vast selection of quality pre-owned cars, and they’re happy to help you pick out the one that’s just right for you. Take one or more for a test drive. If you see one on the lot in Henderson, they’ll move it to the Youngsville lot if that’s more convenient for you. You won’t find yourself wading through substandard cars at a buy here pay here dealership. Isn’t that a pleasant surprise?

Experience The AutoMax Difference For Yourself!

If you really want to see the difference between a conventional new car dealership and a buy here pay here car dealership, visit AutoMax. As soon as you walk in the door, you’ll feel the difference. These people do care, and it shows throughout the whole sales process. For 30 years, AutoMax has been helping people in Henderson, Youngsville, Raleigh, and Durham purchase a used car with a minimum of stress. They can help you, too!

Can You Trade In a Buy Here Pay Here Car in North Carolina?

Plus, How To Use Your Current Vehicle As A Down Payment

Buy here pay here car lots in the Raleigh-Durham area, like AutoMax, help people with challenged credit get financing toward the purchase of a nicer, newer car. Once buyers of these used car dealerships pay off their car loans, they own their vehicles outright and no longer need to make monthly payments to the pay here buy here dealer until it’s time for a different vehicle!

Trading Your Buy Here Pay Here Car To Another Dealer

If you want to, you can trade in your fully paid-for buy here pay here car, truck, or SUV to any other dealer, to put toward the purchase of a new or used vehicle for sale. Traditional dealers near you will look over the car you’d like to trade in, and offer you a very low dollar amount to put toward your significantly-sized down payment. They base their offer on a very brief appraisal process.

First, a designated person at the dealership will borrow your keys so they can get important information from your car. (We recommend bringing your spare keys to do this, so you have your original set.) This person may ask you questions about your car. They often want to know things like how old your tires are or whether your car has ever been wrecked or damaged. They use these basics to look up comparable used car values in the area. 

Then, they’ll examine your car, either quickly or with a fine-toothed comb. Some appraisers at traditional car dealerships will make note of every little thing they find that they consider “wrong” with your car. If you are watching the process, you don’t need to talk unless they ask you a specific question. The appraiser will check your vehicle’s VIN to verify its history, and some may even ask to drive your car.

Finally, the car dealership takes all the information they’ve gathered, including make, model, year, mileage on the car, and any features and amenities, considers how much they’d need to spend reconditioning the vehicle before they could resell it on their lot, or what other fate they may deem your car worthy of.

The appraiser will use all of this information to value your trade. The salesperson at the traditional dealership will let you know how much money they are willing to give you for the value of your car to put toward your down payment for a vehicle that you buy from them. At traditional dealerships, the amount you’ll be offered for your car will be very low and insignificant, unless your vehicle is in perfect condition, with low mileage, and a desirable make and model. 

Then, the salesperson will attempt to find you an auto loan lender. But if your credit score is too low, you can expect higher-than-normal monthly payments that are outside of your budget, and an obscene interest rate, if they approve you for anything at all.

Trading In Your Car At A Buy Here Pay Here Dealership

If you’ve purchased your current car from AutoMax, a buy here pay here dealer near Durham, North Carolina, and you come back to purchase another car, you can expect the same great customer service you got from the team when you first visited.

When you return, you can let the helpful salesperson know that you’d like to trade in your AutoMax car for a nicer, newer one. And although your car will still need to go through an evaluation process to determine its value, you can be assured that you’ll get the most value from your car when you trade it back in at AutoMax.

AutoMax buys your vehicle at a fair market price, and then applies it to our already-low down payments. You can even complete our online trade estimator before you come visit, and we’ll get back to you about how much we’d offer you toward your down payment. 

Once our finance experts calculate the car payment that will fit into your lifestyle, you can use this information to identify cars you’d like to take for a test drive. All of our car listings include a minimum down payment, which makes it even easier to see just how far your trade will get you toward a better car at AutoMax. Our reasonable down payments start at less than $400! 

What Happens To The Vehicle I Traded In?

Feeling nostalgic about all the good times you had in your AutoMax car? We don’t blame you! Our reliable used cars take our customers everywhere and help them make incredible memories with their friends and family. 

If your car can be resold on a used car lot, it will be reconditioned and thoroughly inspected and cleaned before it’s made available for someone else to buy. However, if you drove in an older car, one with high miles, or a vehicle that needs significant mechanical or cosmetic repairs, your car may be taken and resold at an auto auction, where people usually buy very inexpensive cars with unknown histories that may need a lot of work, or cars that people are looking to sell right away without entertaining prospective buyers. (Auto auctions are not a great place to find a guaranteed reliable vehicle — AutoMax can help you find one, though. Just check our huge inventory of quality used cars on our lots in Henderson or Youngsville.)

What Kinds Of Cars Can I Find At AutoMax?

When you trade in your car at AutoMax, you’ll be able to put its value toward a down payment on the vehicle of your choice. On our car lots near Raleigh, you’ll find used sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, and vans. Our customer service-oriented salespeople can help you pick the right one for you, based on how you’ll use the vehicle and the amount you’re comfortable paying each month for your car payment.

Once you’ve selected your vehicle, our finance experts will complete your in-house financing process for your car loan and show you how you can make your payments directly to us each month, instead of a third-party bank or credit union. You will even be able to drive off our lot in your nicer, newer vehicle the very same day.

Ready to trade in your old car and get upgraded? Visit AutoMax at either of our locations, both just a short, money-saving drive from Raleigh and Durham: 519 North Garnett Street in Henderson, NC; or 512 US Highway 1 in Youngsville, NC. Learn more.

How Hard is it to Get a Car Loan with Bad Credit?

Even More Buy Here Pay Here Car Lot Myths, Busted!

Our previous blog post dispelled some big myths about buying cars from pay here buy here car lots like AutoMax. Some folks still have questions about what we do and how we’re able to sell reasonably-priced, reliable used cars to people in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina. 

So, we’re back with even more questions from people in our communities and myths we’re looking forward to busting wide open. Let’s get started with Part Two!

Do I Have To Visit The Used Car Lot In Person To Make My Car Payments?

Although AutoMax finances 100 percent of the auto loans we extend to our valued customers, we never force them to come visit us every time a payment is due. We entered the 21st century long ago!

To make your car payment, we have several convenient ways for you to choose from: automatic debit or auto-draft (ACH); via traditional mail; call-in/over-the-phone; text pay; via our online payment portal; or in-store, if you also want to drop by to say hello. 

To make things easier on you, we’ll even arrange your payment due dates to align with your pay day.

How Does A Buy Here Pay Here Dealership Help Me Improve My Credit?

Even if you come to us with less-than-stellar credit, when you make on-time, regular payments to us, we can help you build your credit back up. We report car loan payments to one or more credit bureaus, like Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax. When your payments are in full and on time, your credit score may start to go up. 

A car loan is actually one of the fastest ways to improve your credit score. With improved credit, you also may find it easier to qualify for cell phone plans and rental properties, too.

Do Pay Here Buy Here Car Lots Accept Trades?

This is another rumor we’d like to quash right away. Of course we are willing to appraise and consider a vehicle you’d like to trade in toward a down payment on one of our reliable used cars for sale in North Carolina.

At AutoMax, we’ll buy your current vehicle at fair market price to make it even easier for you to get into a nicer, newer car. If you’d like you can even request that we value your trade before you come in to shop for a car. Fill out our online form, and a member of our team will get back to you within a business day.

How Hard Is It To Get A Car Loan With Bad Credit?

At traditional dealerships or lenders like banks and credit unions, it can be really hard to get approved for a car loan, if they approve you at all. The real bummer is that if you ask bank after bank and lender after lender, each time they check your credit to determine whether they’ll lend to you, you’re actually lowering your score even farther! It’s just one way people are often caught in the cycle of poor credit with no escape, and it isn’t fair.

At a buy here pay here car lot like AutoMax, we don’t base your approval on your credit score when lending you money to purchase one of our cars. Instead, we evaluate your ability to repay your loan based on your monthly income and lifestyle. If you can afford to pay back the loan, you will be approved to buy a new-to-you car, regardless of your credit score. Is it hard to get a car loan with bad credit? The answer is a definite no!

Car-Related Bills Are Expensive. Can A Buy Here Pay Here Dealer In Durham Offer Me Alternatives?

People don’t come to AutoMax just to buy their car and leave. They keep coming back to us for their future cars, too, because they know we have their best interests at heart. We help our customers in a variety of ways beyond selling reliable cars.

First, we extend a free warranty to every vehicle buyer. It covers far more than just the engine and transmission, and the deductible is a low $100. Read more about our warranty

Second, we help you maintain your car to keep it running smoothly for a long time. All your oil changes for the duration of your auto loan are free, up to four per year, at our approved mechanics’ shops in Raleigh, Henderson, Youngsville, and Creedmoor. Read more about the benefits we offer through our AutoMax Trusted Partners program.

And finally, AutoMax can help you obtain affordable, state-minimum auto insurance. In North Carolina, all car owners are required to maintain basic auto liability insurance on the vehicles. If you owe money on a car loan, you also are required to have an additional insurance policy on your vehicle based on the contract you signed with your lender, like AutoMax. That policy is called Collision and Comprehensive Coverage. It can be very pricey, especially if you have a history of accidents or traffic tickets.

However, AutoMax offers Collateral Protection Insurance (CPI) to all of our customers. The high costs of insurance can be unaffordable for a lot of people, so we can help you save money on your policy while protecting your car. For just $89 a month, CPI covers the buyer, co-buyer, and all at-home drivers. You will, of course, need separate liability insurance, but the difference you’ll save between CPI and Comprehensive insurance is truly astounding. Don’t believe us? Call your insurance provider for a quote! Learn more about CPI

See The Difference At AutoMax

Don’t believe the myths and rumors about what buy here pay here cars are like. Visit us at our two locations in the Raleigh-Durham area, take a test drive, and get approved for a car loan with poor credit so you can drive away in a nicer, newer, and far more reliable vehicle than you’re currently cruising around in. 

Used Sedan Buying Guide

Sedans At Our Pay Here Buy Here Car Lot

We’ve come a long way since the 1899 Renault Voiturette Type B, the first sedan ever made.
 

Perhaps one of the most versatile vehicles, the sedan hauls kids and pets; makes a great daily driver; gets reasonably good gas mileage; and is spacious enough to carry gear from place-to-place.

And before you think a sedan is the most boring vehicle to drive, take note that it got its name from the sedan chair, a special enclosed seat that servants carried on long poles in the front and back. Only important people rode in those sedans, and you can count yourself as an important person, too, as you drive off the AutoMax lot in a great used sedan.


AutoMax, serving the Raleigh, NC area, carries a wide variety of vehicles to meet everyone’s needs, and sedans are definitely included in our inventory. With so many makes and models to choose from, it may be difficult for you to pick your favorite. You have to weigh the pros and cons of each sedan by considering their features, like interior technology, engine power, and even fuel economy. We’ve done some of the work for you here, with our Used Sedan Buying Guide! Let’s take a look at some great used car options near the Research Triangle in North Carolina.

Used Ford Fusion

Ford first rolled out the Fusion in 2006, and since then, the automaker has been adding on extra features to please drivers. This year, 2020, marks the final year Ford will manufacture the Fusion, a sad revelation for lovers of this stylish, yet sporty sedan.

If you’re looking for a more fuel efficient vehicle, stick with the four-cylinder trimlines, the S and the SE. If you need more zip and power, you can get an optional V6 in the SE and SEL trims. Some even come with all-wheel drive, a great feature for winter driving conditions. For those concerned about fuel economy, you can consider the Fusion Hybrid. But you’ll also be pleased to know with its standard engine, the Fusion gets about 23 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.

 

In 2007, Ford added additional standard safety equipment, including additional side airbags and antilock brakes. If you’re looking for more modern features, like built-in navigation or Ford’s SYNC system, you’ll want to watch for later models for sale in Raleigh-Durham. The Sport Appearance Package and Blue Suede Package added luxury equipment to this popular sedan, as well.


As used cars go, the Ford Fusion is an affordable one and makes a good buy because of its positive ratings from car experts and numerous awards. Over the years, our customers have told us how much they love the Fusion, so we usually have a few on our lots. It makes such a great buy here pay here car because of its affordability and universal aesthetic appeal.

Used Chevrolet Malibu

Don’t let the breezy name fool you — the Malibu is a sedan! But it’s history is very different from that of the Ford Fusion. If you’re looking for a car model with a storied history of excellence, the Malibu is for you. Chevrolet introduced the Malibu in 1964, part of the historic Chevelle line-up. It kept its sporty good looks until 1982, when it was discontinued — a sad day in Chevy history.

In 1997, Chevy introduced the all-new Malibu, but this time, it was a front-wheel-drive vehicle designed to appeal to sensible adult buyers and to compete with the likes of the Honda Accord — a far cry from its sports car roots. In 2004, the sixth-generation Malibu and a hybrid version debuted, followed by the seventh generation in 2008, when it became the largest sedan in its class.

Later-model Malibus have a variety of standard safety features added, and are reliable used cars, especially after the 2005 model year. These newer Malibus boast a fuel economy of up to 29 miles per gallon in the city and 36 on the highway and come standard with a four-cylinder engine with options for larger ones available over the years.


Because the Malibu gets overall good marks from professional reviewers, both for its sleek stylings and safety ratings, it’s a great used car to find at our pay here buy here car lot near Raleigh, NC.

Used Toyota Prius

Drivers concerned with going green and getting great fuel economy should look to the Toyota Prius, the very first mass-produced hybrid car! The Prius made its debut in the US in 2001 and was highly sought-after for its combined average fuel economy of 50 miles per gallon (although drivers report much higher numbers–more than 80 miles per gallon at times). It was so popular, buyers had to be put on wait-lists to get their new Prius sedans! 

Newer Prius models have more legroom and cargo space than earlier ones, and Toyota looked to eco-friendly plastics to make the interior of the car just as green as the engine. 

The Prius enjoys one of the highest resale values for used cars on the market today, but because of the nature of its hybrid engine, the value rises and falls in response to fuel costs. Buyers also should know that the Prius requires a special battery pack, which are designed to last the entire life of the car, but it could need replacing; most come with an eight-to-10 year warranty on these battery packs.

Overall, a used Prius is a great option for a buy here pay here car, especially if you’re looking for something incredibly fuel efficient to get around the Youngsville, North Carolina or Henderson, North Carolina areas.

Used Volkswagen Jetta

If German engineering is your goal, the Volkswagen Jetta is a good starting point for the compact sedan category! 

Later model year Jettas have a 1.4-to-2.0 liter, 4-cylinder engine, or a 2.5-liter, 5-cylinder engine, with the option of the diesel-powered GLI, which offers the best fuel economy of all. Front-wheel drive is standard, as is an automatic transmission, although some Jetta drivers prefer the manual transmission models. 

Depending on the generation of Jetta you purchase, you’ll find different interior and mechanical features. If you have your heart set on any accessories in particular, you’ll want to do research on the model years that the Jetta offered those, particularly if you’re looking for the diesel-powered sedan.

Used Hyundai Elantra

During the early 2000s, Hyundai’s quality greatly improved, including the compact Hyundai Elantra. It comes as a five-passenger sedan, but also as a hatchback, wagon, or coupe. They all have four-cylinder engines and front-wheel drive, so it’s easy to pick the right trimline for you.

The fifth-generation of Elantra (2011-2016) got a dramatic new look, including a fastback silhouette that made this small sedan look like a sports car. The small, but zippy engine achieved a fuel economy between 25 and 36 miles per gallon, an impressive feat for a car with an available turbocharged option. The newer models (2017-2018) are more elegant, with the 2019-and-newer models back to the sportier look.

Hyundai’s stellar 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty is also attractive for the buyer looking for a reliable, inexpensive buy here pay here car that might still come with this factory guarantee. 

Get A Buy Here Pay Here Car At Auto Max

If you’re in need of a newer car, but have low credit, no credit, or a credit history that prevents you from getting an affordable auto loan, AutoMax is ready to help you. Come down to our pay here buy here car lot near Raleigh and Durham, NC, to choose from a selection of used cars you can afford. We’ll take care of you with our on-the-lot financing. You could drive off in a great pre-owned car today.

How to Get the Best Bang for Your Buck When Buying Used?

A Used Truck, Car, Or SUV Is Within Reach

Buying a car in the Research Triangle can be an exciting experience, but also a daunting task. Where do you start? There are so many options available on the market today provided by so many brands and companies that it can be hard to choose, and there are many used car dealerships vying for your business. 

What is even more important to consider is making sure that once you make your choice, you get the best deal possible. How do you get the best deal when shopping for a used vehicle at a pay here buy here car lot

We’ve compiled the best tips for car hunting, and after you’ve reviewed them, come see us at AutoMax, near Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, where we can help you find a great deal on a used car, complete with on-the-lot financing.

Narrow Down Your Model Choices

First, you have to decide exactly what kind of vehicle or brand you want to buy. Without knowing where to narrow down the search, it can be difficult. However, you can narrow the search down before you ever leave the house. Using the Internet to search for that particular type of vehicle will allow you to know which dealerships in the area have used cars for sale that you are interested in looking at further. 

Check Reviews Before Buying A Buy Here Pay Here Car

Check the reviews. Once you have located some used cars for sale at different buy here pay here car dealers in your area, it is wise to check out the reviews for those dealerships. They will give you vital information on the reputation of the car lots and also a good indication of how your buying experience might be. Reviews are great tools to use to find a place that is worth dealing with when it comes to spending your hard-earned money and trusting them with financing your next used SUV, car, or truck. 

Check The Kelley Blue Book Value Of Used Cars In Raleigh, North Carolina

Kelley Blue Book can help you in getting the best price as well. This site can provide information about the vehicle, such as the average price for that particular vehicle in that year, make, model, and condition. If the pay here buy here car lot is selling the vehicle for a much greater price than what is listed on the Kelley Blue Book website, chances are that it might not be the best bang for your buck. Kelley Blue Book puts the power back in the hands of the consumer when shopping for a used vehicle.

Alternatively, take advantage of the National Automotive Dealers Association’s information provided free to the public. This organization keeps track of vehicle sales and will provide you with the sale prices of cars similar to those that interest you. 

At Auto Max, we think these resources can help you get a good idea of the value of the vehicle on the private market, because knowing market value for your vehicle of choice is simply common sense. Buy here pay here cars have the added value of guaranteed financing for people with no credit, bad credit, or a checkered credit history. You should consider the time and frustration you’ll spare yourself by coming to Auto Max first, before wasting time shopping around for cars that every bank will deny your financing for. We understand you need a car to get around, and it’s our goal to make sure you get one.

Think About Used Car Warranties

When initially deciding on the make, model, and year of the vehicle you want to buy, it is a wise decision to think about buying a car that comes with a warranty. Many used vehicles don’t come with a warranty, especially if you buy one from a private seller, so Auto Max gives you a great opportunity in this area. All our cars come with a stress-free driving warranty.

Get All The Benefits Of Buying From A Used Car Dealership In Durham

Buy here pay here car lots have many benefits over going to a private seller to buy a used vehicle. We have inventory, which a private seller doesn’t. You can search the entire car lot and have a world of options at your fingertips. We also perform inspections, tests, and other maintenance on the car to ensure its safety and reliability before it leaves. 

We also offer financing. This is a great thing because you can buy the car and get the financing all under one roof. This is much easier than trying to take out a loan somewhere and pay a personal seller for a car that has not been inspected and put through testing. 

Start Your Car Search Today

Buying a car can be a bit of a chore. Buying a used car can be especially tough because you want to make sure that you are getting the most bang for your buck. There are great resources out there today that can help you as a consumer to make sure you get the best price possible. 


Starting the car buying process before you even leave your house is the first step. Using tools such as reviews, Kelley Blue Book, and the National Automotive Dealers Association’s information will empower any buyer to get a top used car with low down payments and in-house financing from a buy here pay here car lot. Then, come to Auto Max in Youngsville and Henderson, North Carolina, to get a great deal on a car you can afford.

Why a Buy Here Pay Here Car is Perfect for College Students

Find Quality Used Cars For Sale Near The North Carolina Research Triangle

If you’re a college student who has never bought a car before and you’re contemplating your first used car purchase, you might be wondering what exactly a Buy Here Pay Here car even is. Don’t worry about comprehending any complicated car loan terms, at AutoMax Buy Here Pay Here cars are actually a pretty simple concept to understand.
 
Buy Here Pay Here used car financing is when a car dealership finances the car themselves, instead doing it through a third party, like a bank or a credit union. You may have seen car commercials in the past that used language like “we finance”, “on-lot financing”, “Buy Here Pay Here”, or  “Pay Here Buy Here Cars”. All of these terms boil down to mean the same thing – you make your monthly car payment directly to the dealership instead of to a loan company.
 
Why did we choose to be a Buy Here Pay Here dealership? By handling financing in house at AutoMax, we’re able to offer better car loans to people who ordinarily might not be eligible, like college students with little or no credit, or people who might have been turned down because of bad credit when trying to purchase a vehicle in the past. If this sounds good to you, and you’re thinking, “Where can I find used cars for sale near me?” the answer is right here at AutoMax!

Buy Here Pay Here Lots Offer Prices That Fit A College Budget

At AutoMax we understand the importance of sticking to your monthly budget, and we recognize that college student’s budgets are usually pretty tight. Buy Here Pay Here dealerships are a great option for anyone with limited funds. When you purchase a car from AutoMax, we guarantee you’ll get a good price based on fair market value. Our goal is to get you in the best vehicle possible so you can get to school or work, and everywhere in between, safely. We also make a point to not upsell you with additional purchases. We’re here to work with you, not to overcharge you.

Having Bad Or No Credit Isn’t A Problem

If you’re worried about buying a car with poor credit, don’t be! College is hectic enough – at AutoMax we don’t want you to stress out about having a bad or a low credit score, or maybe no credit at all. When it comes to financing a pre-owned vehicle with us, our goal is to work with everyone who needs a car. Bad credit car loans are our specialty – don’t let your student loan debt keep you from getting the car you need. At AutoMax we are only concerned about your ability to pay back the auto loan.
 
If you went the traditional route of buying a new car at a regular dealership, you would have to take the time to visit multiple showrooms, banks, and credit unions, before finding one that will approve you for a loan. And after all that work you will likely end up paying a high interest rate or getting stuck in a bad credit card loan. By shopping at Buy Here Pay Here car lots, you’ll have your pick of used cars for sale, and by shopping at AutoMax you can rest assured that you’ll be offered used car financing.

It’s A Quick And Easy Process

We have Buy Here Pay Here car dealerships in Henderson and Youngsville, North Carolina, convenient and close to the Research Triangle and local colleges like North Carolina State University, Duke University, and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
 
You can start the quick and easy process of getting approved for your used car loan by filling out the simple credit application located here. After you are approved, you can visit one of our Buy Here Pay Here car lots to begin browsing at a location closest to you. If you’re approved to get on-lot financing with us, you can even drive off the lot in the same day!
 
We have a stress-free purchase process, knowing we only offer used vehicles of the highest quality. You can check out our online catalog where we have hundreds of affordable, reliable, pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs for you to choose from. We’re sure you’ll be able to find one that perfectly suits your lifestyle and budget.

Reliable Cars With Warranties And Amazing Extra Benefits

We believe that everyone deserves reliable transportation, and we’re dedicated to making sure we match each customer with the perfect car for them. Every single used car for sale on our lot has passed a rigorous quality inspection. We simply don’t sell cars that can’t pass our multi-point inspection.
 
Anyone who purchases a car at AutoMax gets a great used car warranty included in the purchase price. The warranty is effective for 12 months, or until you have driven 15,000 miles, whichever comes first. This generous warranty eliminates any worry about having to pay full price for potentially expensive car repairs in the future. You can check out the full list of what an AutoMax warranty can cover here.
 
In addition to our great warranty, buying a used car for sale at AutoMax will also get you these AMAZING cost-saving benefits:

  • FREE oil changes at one of our preferred shops in Henderson, Youngsville, Creedmore, or Raleigh, North Carolina – up to four oil changes per year, while you pay back your Buy Here Pay Here car loan
  • A rental car while your vehicle is being repaired
  • 24-hour towing service for breakdowns within the Raleigh-Durham region of North Carolina through American Towing and Recovery

Trusted Dealership Conveniently Located Near Local Colleges

Buying a used car can be scary, especially if you’re also paying for tuition, books, and room and board. No one wants to purchase a vehicle that ends up surprising them later with unexpected, and expensive, mechanical problems. At AutoMax you can place your trust in us because our mission is to sell cars to people who are struggling to find an affordable, reliable car due to their credit history. We believe that everyone deserves reliable transportation, and we’re dedicated to going the extra mile for you! We’re just a short drive away from the Research Triangle. So, whether you’re in school at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke, N.C. State, North Carolina Central University, Meredith College, or any of the many other colleges in the Raleigh Durham area, we have a used car for sale near you!

Helps Build Your Credit Score

Getting a Buy Here Pay Here car with us can even potentially help improve your credit score! If you consistently make payments on-time, we will be happy to report this positive behavior to one, or more, of the major credit reporting agencies. This can help you rebuild your credit score from all those student loans, and help you to secure a more stable financial future. 

Where Are Buy Here Pay Here Cars Near Me?

We have two convenient locations:


AutoMax of Henderson, NC
519 North Garnett St.
Henderson, NC 27536
(252) 430-1006
 
AutoMax of Youngsville, NC  
512 US Hwy 1
Youngsville, NC 27596
(919) 570-1107
 
Call us or send a message to one of our dealerships to get started today!

Try Our Buy Here Pay Here Used Car Financing

Buy A Great Used Car, Even With Bad Credit In Durham And Raleigh, NC

At AutoMax we understand how hard it is to live without a vehicle, it’s nearly impossible! Are you asking yourself, “Where are used cars for sale near me?” We have the answer – right here at AutoMax! It’s our mission to get you into a car today! Don’t worry if you’re buying a car with poor credit, we work hard to extend financing to all customers, regardless of their creditworthiness. We offer loans to everyone, even those with a bankruptcy, charge-off or repossession in their past. Instead of worrying about former credit issues, we focus on what’s possible for the future, and how we can help you make your life better with a quality used car.
 
We achieve this by offering Buy Here Pay Here auto financing to residents who live in Raleigh or Durham, North Carolina and the surrounding areas. Are you looking for a used car but have no credit, low credit, or bad credit? Are you a first-time car buyer? Look no further than the Buy Here Pay Here auto financing at AutoMax – it’s made to fit your needs. Never heard of Buy Here Pay Here Cars? It’s basically the same as on-lot financing.

Why Buy From Us?

AutoMax has generously served North Carolina for three decades! Conveniently located near the Research Triangle, we’ve been around this long because we focus on more than just selling you a car. We have a friendly approach to selling vehicles and we want you to find the absolute best used car for your lifestyle and budget. For 30 years our customers have recommended us to family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors because they know we don’t just offer the highest-quality used cars at affordable prices, we also care about developing a relationship with our customers that’s founded on mutual respect and understanding.
 
Our team is invested in your success – that’s why every used vehicle we have for sale already has a great warranty included in the price! We also offer 24/7 towing service for mechanical breakdowns, and a free rental car while yours is in the shop getting repaired. At AutoMax we don’t think of you as just a customer, we think of you as a friend.

Having Bad Or No Credit Isn’t A Problem

At AutoMax we don’t want you to worry about having a bad or a low credit score, or perhaps you have no credit at all. Don’t be worried about buying a used car with poor credit at AutoMax! Our goal is to work with everyone who needs a car. Bad credit car loans are our specialty – our only concern is that you’re able to pay back the auto loan.
 
At a regular dealership, you would have to work with banks and credit unions before you could drive away in your new used car. By shopping at Buy Here Pay Here car lots, you’ll have your pick of used cars for sale, and by shopping at AutoMax you know you’ll be eligible for our great used car financing. All of the cars for sale on our lot are financed, so it’s extremely likely you’ll be approved for your loan, regardless of your credit history.
 
You can start the quick and easy process of getting approved for your car loan by filling out the credit application located here. Once you have been approved, you can visit one of our Buy Here Pay Here car lots to begin browsing at a location convenient to you. We have Buy Here Pay Here car dealerships in Henderson and Youngsville, North Carolina.
 
You also have the opportunity to improve your credit through us. How exactly? If you regularly make your payments on time, we’ll report your good behavior to the credit reporting agencies. This can help boost your credit score and get you started on the path to rebuilding your credit.

Buy Here Pay Here Car Warranties

You’re not dreaming – we include warranties in the purchase price of all of our Buy Here Pay Here cars! We want anyone who purchases a car at AutoMax to get a great used car warranty so they can drive off our lot worry-free. This great warranty takes away any anxiety you might have about not being able to afford expensive car repairs in the future. Our warranty lasts for 12 months, or until you have driven 15,000 miles, whichever comes first, and it covers way more than just the vehicle’s engine and transmission. Our AutoMax warranty can cover; air conditioning and heating components, axle assembly components such as the front, rear, four-wheel, and all-wheel drive, major brake components, cooling system components, electrical components – including the alternator and starter parts, the cruise control computer, ignition module, engine control computer, engine components and certain external engine parts, fuel system components, including fuel injectors, fuel tank, lines and fittings, Hybrid/EV components, steering components, front and rear suspension components, automatic transmission and components, manual transmission and transfer case components, seals and gaskets, including the cylinder head gasket and intake manifold gasket.

We Have A Huge Selection Of Pay Here Buy Here Cars On Our Lot

Our vast selection of inventory includes hundreds of vehicles and dozens of makes and models. At AutoMax our Buy Here Pay Here dealership lot is filled with Ford, Chevrolet, Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Nissan, and many more. All of our cars are put through a rigorous multi-point inspection by our factory-certified technicians before they are put onto our lot. We always make sure each and every vehicle is safe, reliable, and ready for you to drive. Check out our online catalog where we have hundreds of affordable, reliable, pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs for you to choose from. We’re sure you’ll be able to find the perfect vehicle that suits your needs and budget.

Benefits Of Buying A Car From AutoMax In Raleigh Or Durham

In addition to our great warranty, buying a used car for sale at AutoMax will also get you some significant cost-saving benefits like:

  • Free oil changes at one of our preferred shops in Henderson, Youngsville, Creedmore, or Raleigh, North Carolina. You can get up to four oil changes per year, while you are paying back your Buy Here Pay Here car loan
  • A rental car while your vehicle is being repaired by us
  • 24-hour towing service for breakdowns within the Raleigh-Durham region of North Carolina through American Towing and Recovery

Where Are Buy Here Pay Here Cars Near Me?

Visit one of our two convenient locations or send us a message to get started!


AutoMax of Henderson, NC
519 North Garnett St.
Henderson, NC 27536
(252) 430-1006
 
AutoMax of Youngsville, NC  
512 US Hwy 1
Youngsville, NC 27596
(919) 570-1107

Things You Didn’t Know About Buy Here Pay Here Cars

You Can Qualify For A Bad Credit Car Loan At AutoMax!

What exactly is a Buy Here Pay Here car? Generally, when you purchase a car from a traditional car dealership they pass the contract to an auto lender, who then provides the loan so that you can purchase the car. With Buy Here Pay Here cars, the dealership finances the car themselves. Sometimes called Pay Here Buy Here cars, it’s basically the same thing as on lot financing, which is commonly used in car commercials. Advertisements that say, “we finance”, “on-lot financing”, “Buy Here Pay Here”, and “Pay Here Buy Here”,  all mean the same thing – you make your monthly car payment directly to the dealership.  
 
At AutoMax, Buy Here Pay Here has the same meaning. We help our customers get a car loan directly from us and not through a third party, like a bank or credit union. We operate this way because by handling financing on our end, we are in a better position to offer car loans to people who ordinarily might not be eligible, or who might have been turned down in the past when trying to purchase a vehicle.
 
We are not like other traditional used car dealerships! We are strictly a Buy Here Pay Here car lot. If you need an affordable used car, truck, or SUV, you can trust AutoMax to help you! Our goal is to get you in a better vehicle to get you to work, school, and everywhere in between. We don’t mark-up the cost of our used cars or try to upsell you with additional purchases. If you’re worried about buying a car with poor credit, don’t be! We’re here to work with you, and we understand the importance of sticking to your monthly budget.

Buy Here Pay Here Cars Are Newer Models

Just because we sell Buy Here Pay Here cars, doesn’t mean we only sell older model vehicles. We carry a wide variety of pre-owned cars, vans, trucks and SUVs that are just two to three years old! At AutoMax you can find a vehicle that’s the right fit for you at the right price.

You Can Get A Warranty On Used Cars For Sale

You read that right – we include warranties on all of our vehicles! Anyone who purchases a car at AutoMax gets a great used car warranty included in the purchase price. You can’t beat that! Our warranty is effective for 12 months, or until you have driven 15,000 miles, whichever comes first. A great warranty like this helps you rest assured that you won’t be paying full price for potentially expensive car repairs in the future. Our limited warranty also covers more than just the vehicle’s engine and transmission. An AutoMax warranty can cover:

  1. Air conditioning and heating components 
  2. Axle assembly components (front, rear, four-wheel, and all-wheel drive)
  3. Major brake components
  4. Cooling system components
  5. Electrical components, including the alternator and starter parts
  6. Electronic components, including the cruise control computer, ignition module, and engine control computer
  7. Engine components and certain external engine parts
  8. Fuel system components, including fuel injectors, fuel tank, and lines and fittings
  9. Hybrid/EV components (where applicable)
  10. Steering components
  11. Front and rear suspension components
  12. Automatic transmission and components
  13. Manual transmission and transfer case components
  14. Seals and gaskets, including the cylinder head gasket and intake manifold gasket

In addition to all those things our great warranty can cover, you will also get:

  • Free oil changes while you pay back your Buy Here Pay Here car loan, at one of our preferred shops in Henderson, Youngsville, Creedmore, or Raleigh, North Carolina – up to four oil changes per year
  • A rental car while your vehicle is being repaired
  • 24-hour towing service for breakdowns within the Raleigh-Durham region of North Carolina through American Towing and Recovery

Wow! You can’t beat that exceptional service!

You Can Buy A Car With Poor Credit

At AutoMax we don’t want you to stress about having a bad credit or a low credit score. Our goal is to work with everyone who needs a car when it comes to financing a pre-owned vehicle. Bad credit car loans are our specialty – we want you to be able to get a safe car without worry! We don’t scrutinize your credit score, we are only concerned about your ability to pay back the auto loan. All of the cars we sell are financed, so it’s very likely you will be approved for your loan. Then you can be on your way to working on rebuilding your credit. At AutoMax we work with you, not against you.

You can start the quick and easy process of getting approved for your car loan by filling out the credit application located here. Once you have been approved, you can visit one of our Buy Here Pay Here car lots to begin browsing at a location convenient to you. We have Buy Here Pay Here car dealerships in Henderson and Youngsville, North Carolina. You can also check out our online catalog where we have hundreds of affordable, reliable, pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs for you to choose from. We’re sure you’ll be able to find one that perfectly suits your lifestyle and budget.
 
Getting a Buy Here Pay Here car with us can even potentially help improve your credit score! If you consistently make payments on-time, we will report this positive behavior to one or more of the major credit reporting agencies, which can help you rebuild your credit score and secure a more stable financial future. Improving your credit score can give you more credit opportunities in the future, with lower interest rates and better monthly payments.

Buy Here Pay Here Dealerships Perform Careful Inspections

At AutoMax, we inspect every used vehicle before it even comes on to our lot. Every single vehicle that we have for sale has passed a rigorous quality inspection before we offer it for sale to the public. We don’t sell cars that can’t pass our multi-point inspection.
 
We believe that everyone deserves reliable transportation, and we’re dedicated to going the extra mile for you! For each car we sell, we provide vehicle history reports, title records, odometer history, ownership changes, and even prior accident and salvage information. You can find a car’s report by looking on our website or inside every car on our lot! Reports are also available upon request in our office. On top of that, we offer everyone who buys a vehicle from us an outstanding used car warranty, so your purchase can be worry-free.

Finding Pay Here Buy Here Car Lots Near Raleigh And Durham

Are you ready to own a car you can count on? Are you thinking, “This sounds great, where are there used cars for sale near me?” Look no further than AutoMax because we’re ready to help you find the perfect car! You can browse our inventory online, and then visit us at our Buy Here Pay Here dealership locations in the Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina area to test-drive and buy one of our quality used cars for sale. We’re just a short drive away from the Research Triangle.

Where Are Buy Here Pay Here Cars Near Me?

Check out our locations below. Call or send a message to one of our dealerships to get started today!


AutoMax of Henderson, NC
519 North Garnett St.
Henderson, NC 27536
(252) 430-1006
 
AutoMax of Youngsville, NC  
512 US Hwy 1
Youngsville, NC 27596
(919) 570-1107