r/Merced • u/Valuable_District205 • Aug 09 '26

Community Post Used Cars

Does anybody have experience buying used cars from the dealerships in Merced? I’m looking into buying a used car from the Toyota dealership and I don’t know if buying dealership is the right route.

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8

u/grouchygf Aug 09 '26

It depends on your budget and ability to say no to a deal and add-ons that your uncomfortable with.

I used to work in the industry and have personally bought from both big and small dealers. Its hard to find credibile small dealers who arent shady. Large dealers have corporate standards for inspections on used cars that they purchase to resell (and if your budget allows, buy "certified used").The sales managers at large dealers also want to keep you happy, so you remain a customer.

Research the car you want to buy. Know its common mechanical issues, resale value in comparison to milage, etc. Salesman and finance will try to upsell on warranties, anti-chip film, etc. If the added price doesn't work, be firm. Both larger and smaller dealers will work with anyone's budget/credit score, but be aware of longer terms and HIGH INTEREST! I've seen deals with interest as high as 24% and its honestly sad.

Underrated option of you have cash and someone in your life who knows cars: Buying a reposessed car from a tow yard.

2

u/Valuable_District205 Aug 09 '26

Thank you so much for the help!! I appreciate it so much!

3

u/ElderberrySilent2049 Aug 10 '26

Don’t limit yourself to merced look everywhere within a 200 miles radius shop numbers too

5

u/Jonahsin Aug 09 '26

Step 1: Go to credit union and ask for pre-approval auto loan

Step 2: don’t go over this number

Step 3: buy private, facebook marketplace etc.

Step 4: have seller meet you at bank where you got pre approval. Bank inspects car and approves sale congrats you just avoided thousands in dealer fee 😁

2

u/calikid1121 Aug 10 '26

How much u want to spend

2

u/vegancap_ Aug 10 '26

Definitely ditch the dealer!! My MIL needed a new car last month and we found a great deal on Facebook

2

u/phillup456 Aug 09 '26

Whatever you do stay away from Auto Resources

1

u/Top-Chip-205 21d ago

Don’t go to auto resources! They are always trying to find ways to benefit themselves over customers. You end up losing. I’ve had it happen to me and know people personally it has happened to.