Shopping for a vehicle is about finding the best place to buy a used car as much as it is picking the right make and model. Oftentimes, that “where?” is dependent on whether you have good credit, are rebuilding after a financial setback, or are buying a vehicle for the first time.

Independent dealers: Flexibility with a personal touch

Independent dealerships serve a variety of buyers, including those with less-than-perfect credit. You can expect a wide range of makes, models, and price points, giving you more options in one place.

Because independent dealers aren’t tied to a single manufacturer or lender, many offer creative financing options, including subprime or in-house financing arrangements. That said, quality and reputation can vary, so it’s essential to read reviews, check BBB ratings, and get any car inspected before signing a contract.

Buy Here Pay Here dealers: In-house financing

For buyers with poor or no credit, Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) dealers can be a practical option for achieving car ownership. These dealerships don’t rely on outside lenders — they finance the vehicle themselves. Approval typically comes down to your income, not your credit score.

This convenience does come with some trade-offs. Interest rates at BHPH lots are typically higher than those of traditional lenders, and warranties tend to be shorter in duration. Still, the ability to finance and purchase a car in one place is a major benefit for those who need transportation fast but can’t qualify for traditional financing.

Large chain dealers: Inventory, simplicity, and transparency

Retail chains have large inventories, set no-haggle pricing, and provide buyer-friendly perks, such as extended return windows and limited warranties.

However, chain dealers don’t often have the lowest prices compared to private sellers or small lots. And while their in-house financing options span a wide range of credit tiers, these retailers are generally best equipped to work with those who have fair to good credit.

Manufacturer dealerships: Certified pre-owned

Manufacturer-affiliated dealers are a great choice if you’re looking for a rigorously inspected vehicle with low mileage and a manufacturer-backed warranty. Expect to pay a premium for these perks, but for many buyers, the added reliability is worth the cost.

These dealerships frequently utilize the manufacturer’s financial services, which may offer competitive rates for buyers with good to excellent credit. Buyers with lower credit scores may face stricter approval criteria or need a cosigner.

Private sellers: Cost savings with greater risk

Sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace have thousands of used cars for sale by owner. Going this route can sometimes get you the best price, especially if you’re paying with cash or already have lined up your financing.

In these scenarios, you’ll be responsible for handling all of the paperwork and arranging your own financing. Because you won’t have the security of a warranty, you’ll also want to have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic before purchasing.

Online dealerships and marketplaces: Shop from anywhere

Online platforms have dramatically transformed the way people buy used cars. These online dealers are known for nationwide inventories, transparent pricing, and delivery straight to your door.

Financing is typically pre-arranged or offered through the platform, though you can often bring your own lender. While these sites work well for buyers with stable credit and a preference for convenience, they may not be ideal for those who want to negotiate the price or need to explore subprime financing options. You won’t be able to test drive the vehicle before selecting it, though there’s usually a return policy in place to compensate for that.

Credit Acceptance: A resource for the credit-challenged

With over 15,000 dealers in our network, we can introduce you to many dealers including BHPH, independent and franchise. We can also get you pre-qualified through our site, so you’ll be able to walk onto a used car lot with an idea of what you may qualify for. You can also view the Credit Acceptance dealers near you.