[idlewild]

Before the mods move this post, I understand there's the Automotive Forum as well as the Classifieds Used Cars section and such on TOTV, but my question is a bit broader - more about the process: if you were to be in the market for a new/used car, where would you look? I'm new to TV and likely need a "new" car soon. I understand to check the dealerships in the major cities (Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, etc.) but assume there's significant turnover locally and not looking to break the bank. Suggestions?

[tophcfa]

Originally Posted by idlewild

Before the mods move this post, I understand there's the Automotive Forum as well as the Classifieds Used Cars section and such on TOTV, but my question is a bit broader - more about the process: if you were to be in the market for a new/used car, where would you look? I'm new to TV and likely need a "new" car soon. I understand to check the dealerships in the major cities (Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, etc.) but assume there's significant turnover locally and not looking to break the bank. Suggestions?

If you’re in the market for a Honda, then I would recommend Honda of Ocala. Stay away from any Jenkins dealership.

[retiredguy123]

I would recommend buying a car from a dealer who advertises the price with no dealer fee, processing fee, doc fees, electronic tag fee, and no dealer installed "options". The price should be advertised and calculated as the MSRP (as received from the manufacturer), minus a dealer discount, plus sales tax, title, and tag fees, period. The tax, title, and tag fees should be the same as those charged by the state. Two dealerships who operate that way are Mullinax Ford in Apopka, and Hyundai of Central Florida in Clermont. Also, if you pay cash, ask about how much of the price can be paid with a credit card.

[CarlR33]

Have you given any thought to online buying? I think if you search there was a post recently about buying cars? I saw a post up north were someone bought from Carvana and had a good experience. The last one I bought (Toyota at the Toyota Dealership) was used from the dealer up north, was certified used and had free oil changes for life.

[Nucky]

I'm on the way out the door to pick up our new car in Naples, Florida. It's definitely worth the trip. $$$$ You have to shop around and be willing to travel, or you can just settle if you don't want to put the work in, which I totally understand. I don't like getting up this early; it reminds me of pre-retirement days.

I bought our Sonata at Central Florida Hyundai in Clermont, but had it serviced at Jenkins Hyundai in Leesburg. They were more than fair to us and treated us well even after the warranty had expired. Gift cards at Christmas to the service writer and the mechanic didn't hurt, I guess. They were fine people, but keep your eyes wide open when you are dealing with anything with tires because there is big money in deception.

[ThirdOfFive]

Maybe it is unjustified paranoia, but I'd be VERY hesitant about buying a used vehicle from a dealer anywhere within (say) a 30 mile radius of TV. Judging from what I see on TOTV, plus word-of-mouth and my own experiences, unscrupulous businesses see TV as a flock of 150,000 (+, -) sheep to be sheared in whatever way works. And a number of the dealerships within that radius apparently do not exactly have a sterling reputation.

If I'm planning on buying used, my first stop would be at the service center that has been servicing our vehicles for some years now: they've proven themselves trustworthy and there's a good chance that they know, or know of, someone with a used vehicle for sale; they may also have knowledge of the vehicle from working on it. If they gave me a referral that would be something I'd definitely follow up.

New? It depends. Again, an unscrupulous dealer can pad that new car price. We drive Toyotas and Toyota honors factory warranties at any dealership in the country that also does repairs, so I'd probably lean toward buying new from a dealership that I've dealt with in a satisfactory manner on other vehicles.

[daniel200]

Originally Posted by idlewild

Before the mods move this post, I understand there's the Automotive Forum as well as the Classifieds Used Cars section and such on TOTV, but my question is a bit broader - more about the process: if you were to be in the market for a new/used car, where would you look? I'm new to TV and likely need a "new" car soon. I understand to check the dealerships in the major cities (Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, etc.) but assume there's significant turnover locally and not looking to break the bank. Suggestions?

If you are looking for a new car, I have found the dealers in the Villages area are $3000 to $4000 more expensive. Expand your search area to Orlando and beyond. Also, dealers have monthly sales quotas that triggers manufacturers rebates. If it is near the end of the month and they need your sale to reach the quota, they will offer you a much better deal to get the sale.

[VApeople]

We bought a new RAV4 at Phillips Toyota in 2019 and we love the car.

Then we traded in our 2003 Acura for another new RAV4 at Phillips in July of this year.

We were very pleased with the way we were treated both times.

[Pondboy]

I’d go online. Carmax, Carvana.

We’ve bought 3 cars from Carmax. Like new without the depreciation loss vs a new car.

Nationwide shipping and great availability.

[BrianL99]

I think "Car Buying" has just surpassed Dog Poop threads and closing in on the "Gas vs Electric" cart, for the most frequent subject on TOTV.

Rounding out the Top 5, we have "People Don't Know How to Navigate a Roundabout" and "Snowbirds/Renters are the Reasons for Every Problem in TV".

[Topspinmo]

If buying new I would do lot of research on EGOBOOST, EGOTEC engines, (direct injection engines I would only use HIGH tier GAS), and CVT transmissions? And if you do buy these IMO you better change oil and CVT fluids well ahead of manufactured recommendations. But, I personally would avoid them due to carbon buildup and CVTs cannot be repaired, problem laminated Belt failure that which can’t get replacement. I would religiously change CVT fluid on or before 30K miles.

[justjim]

Originally Posted by tophcfa

If you’re in the market for a Honda, then I would recommend Honda of Ocala. Stay away from any Jenkins dealership.

Honda of Ocala is owned by the Morgan Auto Group which owns several dealerships in Florida. The consolidation of dealerships is the trend not only here but across the country. Morgan owns Villages Subaru on 441 near the Leesburg airport. My 2023 Subaru has received excellent service at Villages Subaru and I would highly recommend giving them a “shot” at purchasing a new or used car.

Jenkins also is a large group of dealerships. Unfortunately their reputation has been less than stellar. Management at different dealerships makes a huge difference. Of course, the importance of due diligence cannot be underestimated when dealing with any dealership big or small.

[vintageogauge]

Go to Phillip's Buick on 441 and ask for Scott Hall. He is a very fair no BS person to deal with on both new and used cars. After he comes back from "seeing the boss" with a price, make him a offer that is fair to both you and he, he'll then go back and try to get it for you.

[Pballer]

Buy a car from a dealership out of state. Or, try a car broker that can get you a good deal even after the rip off dealer fees that Florida is famous for.

[Howdy]

Here we go if you believe the television car sales pitches from prctically every dealer it varies of course: Here goes;

# 1 Holiday Sales .....Best ever " Hurry "

# 2 End of year car sales..Car, Suv, Truck etc. etc.

# 3 With each sale, Lifetime Warranty, Free Oil Change, on & on.

# 4 Look anyone with 1/10 of a brain nothing is Free, Free Installation be it carpet, windows, roofing, then there is the Free Airline Tickets after a 90 min. lecture on ??? etc. it all comes with the " Fine Print ".

# 5 If a person doesn't read the fine print , & get's surprised that comes under the heading of a " Sucker Born Every Minute " PT Barnum quote...( allegedly ).

I am very ammused by the car sales people they try very hard...hey it's their job, by choice. For me they are fair game. .......