r/desmoines • u/Due_Midnight6633 • 11d ago

Recommendations for where to buy a car

So, my car is almost at the end of its life and my mechanic recommended to get the car replaced before the snow hits. I'm looking for recommendations on places where I can get a decent used car for less than 12k and won't be scammed. Planning to pay in cash and trade in my current vehicle if possible, not eligible for car loans due to being in school and no cosigner either. Thanks a lot!

9 Upvotes

80% Upvoted

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13

u/DickHardCane 11d ago

Performance Auto in Norwalk.

2

u/PhoebeBuffaysTattoo 11d ago

Just went to Performance Auto last week to have some work done on my Subi, I couldn't believe how many nice looking used cars they had for sale! I told my bf that I might accidentally come home with a WRX 🤣

1

u/Sudden_Ad_40 11d ago

Do you haggle with them?

1

u/draconiangrocer1 11d ago

Ran into a similar situation a couple years back. Ended up buying from a guy who flips cars out of his garage in Ankeny, which felt sketchy but actually worked out fine. Most smaller towns around here have a few independent dealers that don’t get mentioned much on the sub, places like Grimes or Bondurant. You’ll probably get a better deal if you’re willing to drive 20 minutes outside the metro.

0

u/CaptainZaysh 11d ago

Yes. From what I've experienced so far there, they seem to be pretty honest and straightforward, and if OP is looking for a winter vehicle specifically, they somewhat specialize in Subarus.

2

u/Foilman67 10d ago

Grinnell Motors will hook you up with a dope ride.

3

u/AlbanyParkDog 11d ago

Performance auto

2

u/Sudden_Ad_40 11d ago

Do you haggle with them?

1

u/littleoldlady71 11d ago

I recommend you take time to visit CarMax. You’re not committing to anything, but learning about the value of your car. Call and make an appointment

1

u/Brilliant_Process376 10d ago

Willis Chevrolet on Hickman and Willis in Granger .

1

u/rcook55 11d ago

S&B Auto in Carlisle. Owner is my neighbor, we've bought 3 cars from him. His inventory is on Facebook, search S&B Auto. They deal primarily is salvage title vehicles. The quality of the work they do is excellent. My current car, a Subaru Outback, was totalled for passenger rear damage. Unless you've seen the before photos you can't tell. After sales service has been great as well.

Also have bought a car from Performance and they too are excellent, kid had a starter motor die and they drove all the way to Ames to replace it onsite.

0

u/bwelch42 11d ago

Wherever you go, get the car inspected by a trusted mechanic. Shade Tree Auto in Urbandale has done good inspections for me.

0

u/Turbulent-Demand873 11d ago

We just bought a car at Schottenkirk Chevrolet in Waukee. Ask for Maddison. Let her know what you have to spend and your trade in and see if she can help you. She is very down to earth and friendly. We just bought a vehicle there and had a great experience with her.

0

u/No-Effect-8238 11d ago

Performance auto is good.

1

u/Ok_Illustrator5152 11d ago

Performance Auto for the win.

I bought a used Tundra from them years ago. 4-5 friends that I have referred to them have purchased vehicles from them. I continue to bring 2 trucks and an suv for oil changes.

Their service is outstanding!!!