Opinions Requested: Carmax and Saturn Sky Redline

[Mario4ever]

I'm considering buying a new toy: a 2007 Saturn Sky Redline. I've located one at Carmax with only 10,000 miles on it. I'd like to know if anyone has any experience dealing with Carmax. If so, what are your thoughts. Also, does anyone have any thoughts on the quality of the Saturn? Thanks for your opinions.

[Ren Butler]

I've had Carmax appraise cars before, and I've test driven at least two of their cars.

The only thing I can say about them is that they (at least the Carmel location) seem to be a very well run, knowledgeable, and professional business. But that's without ever actually completing a transaction with them.

[Jamski]

We bought our current ride (05 Taurus) at Carmax and the experience was completely positive. The price was as posted, no negotiation, and very reasonable, a complete vehicle history report was provided (not CarFax, but theirs matched word for word, I checked) and we were able to look at the entire inventory online before we set foot on the facility. We do our financing through our Credit Union, so knowing the exact prices in advance we knew what we could afford.

They will be getting repeat business from us, to be sure.

[JMFVET]

I think the cars at CarMax are in good shape and they do provide the reports as proof. My only problem with them was the price. They low-ball trade in values an sale prices are at the high end or above NADA book value.

My advice is sell/trade-in elsewhere but unless you are very dollar conscious it is a good place to buy.

[crispy]

Yeah, their prices are ridiculous.

As far as the Saturn Sky goes, remember, you're buying a car that has no other GM equivilent. Well it did, but they went under too. Whereas GM dealerships will service it, parts may be an issue. I'm a Saturn owner as well, but mine is the sister to the GMC Acadia, so other than a few body parts, I'm safe.

Of course, if this is a weekend toy, this may not be an issue. I like the car. It would be fun to have.

[Ren Butler]

Their prices are market-based. If they don't sell their cars at the listed price, they drop them to a "value" rate.

If anybody buys a car at the original price, by definition the price was just right.

[Mario4ever]

Thanks for the replies everyone. Makes me feel a bit more confident dealing with a company for which I have no prior experience. I will be doing business with the Carmel store so it is nice to know that you have favorable opinion of them, Ren.

[Gomer Simpson]

You're a ridebuyer who is going to drive for team Redline?

[Indy-hp]

I'll echo everything previously posted. I've shopped at CARMAX and sold them a car and found them to be straightshooters and professional to deal with. Quite refreshing in the auto industry.

Their prices are on the high end of the range, but they check over and service what they sell very thoroughly, so you know you're not getting a piece of junk.

Conversely, they do pay bottom dollar for a trade-in, but frankly, that's how they make their money, buy low, sell high. I don't mind if someone makes a fair profit, that's business.

If you're looking for a steal, look elsewhere, but if you're willing to pay a bit for peace of mind and a pleasant buying experience, Carmax is a good company.

[Mario4ever]

You're a ridebuyer who is going to drive for team Redline?

Why, yes. I guess you could say that.

[Mario4ever]

I'll echo everything previously posted. I've shopped at CARMAX and sold them a car and found them to be straightshooters and professional to deal with. Quite refreshing in the auto industry.

Their prices are on the high end of the range, but they check over and service what they sell very thoroughly, so you know you're not getting a piece of junk.

Conversely, they do pay bottom dollar for a trade-in, but frankly, that's how they make their money, buy low, sell high. I don't mind if someone makes a fair profit, that's business.

If you're looking for a steal, look elsewhere, but if you're willing to pay a bit for peace of mind and a pleasant buying experience, Carmax is a good company.

That's what I'm looking for. A good quality vehicle without playing games. I have no problem with them making a profit either as long as the product they provide is of good quality. I have my test drive scheduled for tomorrow morning. If I get the car I will post some photos in the coming days. Thanks again for everyone's input.

[Mario4ever]

Thanks to all who posted last week. I bought the car and have included photos below. I was very impressed with CarMax. I would certainly do business with them again.

[Indy-hp]

Cool car! Glad it worked out for you.

[NDGator]

Mario missed you call for info. I have an 08 Redline with 3K if you ever want to trade stories/info.

[Jamski]

Most excellent!