Best Car Dealerships and Buying Services in 2026
National chains, online platforms, and alternative buying models compared.
Buying a car — new or used — is one of the largest purchases most people make. The dealership experience ranges from transparent and pleasant to high-pressure and frustrating. Meanwhile, new buying models have emerged that challenge traditional dealership approaches.
We evaluated national dealership chains, online car-buying platforms, and alternative purchasing methods to help you find a better car-buying experience.
Types of Car Buying Options
Franchise Dealerships
Authorized dealers for specific manufacturers (Ford, Toyota, Honda, etc.), selling new vehicles from that brand plus used inventory. You get access to new vehicles with manufacturer warranties, certified service departments, manufacturer financing programs, trade-in services, and Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) programs. Quality differs dramatically by dealership, ownership group, and individual salesperson.
Used Car Superstores
Large retailers specializing in used vehicles with standardized processes, often with no-haggle pricing models. They offer large selection, multi-point inspections, limited warranties, and return windows (typically 7-30 days).
Online Car Buying Platforms
Digital-first car retailers where you can purchase entirely online with home delivery. You get a complete purchase process from home, large searchable inventory, return windows (typically 7-14 days), and no in-person negotiation. Note: you can't test drive before purchase (rely on return window), may not be available in all states, and delivery fees may apply.
Direct-to-Consumer Brands
Manufacturers selling directly to consumers without franchised dealers. They offer fixed pricing (no negotiation), online ordering, company-owned service centers, and a transparent, no-pressure experience. Availability is limited to certain manufacturers and may not be available in states with dealer-franchise laws.
Car Buying Services and Brokers
Services that negotiate on your behalf or connect you with fleet pricing. Someone else handles negotiation, often with access to fleet or employee pricing. Cost is typically a flat fee or percentage of savings.
Our Top Picks
Based on our evaluation, these are the top car buying services we recommend.
CarGurus
Real-time deal ratings and intuitive price comparison across millions of listings.
Carvana
Fully digital car-buying experience with home delivery and a 7-day return policy.
CarMax
Largest used car retailer with extensive inventory, no-haggle pricing, and a 10-day return policy.
What We Evaluated
Pricing Transparency
No-haggle vs. negotiation-based models. Clarity of pricing including fees, add-ons, and documentation charges. How prices compare to market values and presence of hidden fees or markups.
Inventory Quality
Vehicle selection and availability, condition standards for used vehicles, inspection processes, and certification programs.
Customer Experience
Sales process (high-pressure vs. consultative), communication quality, time required to complete purchase, and post-sale support.
Financing Options
Range of financing options, rate competitiveness, transparency about financing terms, and ability to use outside financing.
Return & Exchange Policies
Return window length, conditions and restrictions, exchange options, and money-back guarantees.
Warranty and Service
Warranty coverage on used vehicles, service department availability, extended warranty options and pricing, and customer satisfaction with service.
What to Consider Before Buying
Get Pre-Approved for Financing
Before setting foot in a dealership or completing an online purchase, get pre-approved for an auto loan from your bank, credit union, or online lender. You'll know your budget and rate before negotiating, can compare dealer financing against outside options, and it protects against dealer rate markups.
Credit unions often offer competitive auto loan rates. According to the National Credit Union Administration, credit union auto loan rates are typically lower than bank and dealer rates.
CFPB: Buying or Leasing a Car↗
Research Pricing Thoroughly
For New Cars: Research invoice price (what the dealer paid), MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price), market price (what others are actually paying), and rebates and incentives.
For Used Cars: Check private party value, dealer retail value, and recent sales of comparable vehicles.
Inspect Used Vehicles Carefully
Even certified pre-owned vehicles should be inspected before purchase. Have an independent mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection ($100-200). Obtain a vehicle history report (Carfax, AutoCheck) to check for accidents, title issues, service history, and ownership history.
Read the Contract Carefully
Watch for Add-Ons
- Extended warranties — often overpriced; can be purchased later if desired
- Paint protection and fabric protection — rarely worth the cost
- VIN etching — minimal value
- GAP insurance — shop around; often cheaper through your auto insurer
- Nitrogen-filled tires — air is 78% nitrogen already
Verify sale price matches negotiated price, trade-in value is correct, fees are disclosed and reasonable, and interest rate and loan terms are as agreed. Don't rush — dealerships may create urgency to prevent careful review.
Understand Documentation Fees
Documentation fees (doc fees) range from $0 to $900+ depending on state and dealer. Some states cap doc fees. The fee should be disclosed before finalizing the deal.
Don't Focus Only on Monthly Payment
A common sales tactic is focusing negotiation on monthly payment rather than total price. This can obscure extended loan terms that increase total interest paid, higher prices masked by longer loans, and add-ons buried in payments. Always negotiate on out-the-door price, then discuss financing separately.
Tips for a Better Buying Experience
Know What You Want
Research vehicles, features, and pricing online before visiting dealerships. Knowing exactly what you want reduces salesperson influence and speeds the process.
Visit Multiple Dealerships
Competition benefits buyers. Get quotes from multiple dealers and be willing to walk away. The willingness to leave is your strongest negotiating tool.
Time Your Purchase
End of month/quarter/year (dealers pushing to meet targets), when new model years arrive (previous year models discounted), and when specific models are overstocked can all mean better pricing.
Get Everything in Writing
Verbal promises mean nothing. Ensure all agreed terms, prices, and commitments are documented in writing before signing. Be prepared to walk away if you feel rushed or uncomfortable.
Disclaimer
The information on ScoreCardHQ is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional, legal, financial, or medical advice. We encourage all readers to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making significant decisions.