Does CarMax Buy Cars With Problems?
Will CarMax accept your car with problems? Learn about what CarMax specializes in.
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If you’ve got a vehicle with engine trouble, transmission issues, or even body damage, your first instinct might be to take it to a major buyer like CarMax. But does CarMax buy cars with problems or are they only interested in vehicles that run well and look sharp?
The short answer: Yes, CarMax will buy some cars with mechanical or cosmetic problems. However, there are a few things to understand about their process and why DamagedCars.com might offer a faster, easier, and more profitable alternative.
What Types of Damaged Cars Will CarMax Buy?
CarMax appraises all cars, regardless of condition. This includes vehicles with:
- Cosmetic flaws like dents, scratches, or faded paint
- Minor mechanical issues
- High mileage or old age
However, CarMax does not specialize in seriously damaged or non-running cars. If your car won’t start, needs major repairs, or has structural damage, their offer (if they make one at all) is likely to be low.
If you’re trying to sell a car with issues, it’s worth checking whether the cost to tow it and bring it in for appraisal is even worth your time especially when alternatives like DamagedCars.com will come to you.
How Does the CarMax Appraisal Process Work?
Here’s a quick rundown:
- You schedule an appointment or walk in.
- A technician inspects your car inside and out.
- You receive an offer that’s valid for 7 days.
- You can accept the offer and sell on the spot.
The process is generally simple but keep in mind that the offer reflects the condition. If your car has warning lights, needs body work, or isn’t drivable, that will reduce the value significantly.
Does CarMax Buy Non-Running Cars?
CarMax may still make an offer on a non-running car, but only under certain circumstances and it depends heavily on your location and the severity of the issue.
In most cases, they require the vehicle to be brought to the store, meaning you’ll need to cover the cost of towing. If your car can’t move, this can be a hassle and an added expense.
Alternatives to CarMax: Why Choose DamagedCars.com
If CarMax isn’t giving you the number you hoped for or if your car is simply too far gone—you’re not out of options. DamagedCars.com specializes in buying broken, junk, and non-running vehicles.
Why consider DamagedCars.com over CarMax?
- We buy cars with major mechanical issues
- We provide free towing and come to you
- Our offers are based on real-time market data and condition
- We handle paperwork and title issues
There’s no need to bring the car anywhere or negotiate with a salesperson. Just tell us about your vehicle, get a guaranteed quote, and we’ll handle the rest.
How It Works With DamagedCars.com
- Enter your vehicle details online or over the phone.
- Receive an offer in less than 2 minutes.
- Schedule free pickup at your convenience.
- Get paid on the spot.
If you’re asking does CarMax buy cars with mechanical problems, the better question might be: Who’s actually offering you the best deal for it?
The Bottom Line
CarMax is a reliable and reputable company but it’s not always the best fit for cars with serious problems. If your vehicle is broken, non-functional, or too expensive to fix, you may get a lowball offer or no offer at all.
DamagedCars.com is built specifically for situations like this. We’ve helped thousands of drivers turn their problem cars into cash with no stress, no haggling, and no towing fees.
Thinking about selling your car with mechanical issues? Get a free offer from DamagedCars today and skip the uncertainty.
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Does CarMax Buy Cars With Problems?
Yes — CarMax does buy damaged cars. In order to sell a vehicle to CarMax for cash, you typically have to bring the car in to get it appraised. That involves arranging for a tow truck that you will have to pay for yourself, which can cut into your potential profit for the vehicle.
Keep in mind that although you can sell a damaged car to CarMax, they specialize in vehicles that they can easily fix up and put back on the lot. That means you might get a better price for your car if you sell it elsewhere — like DamagedCars, which does specialize in paying for cars with problems.
Does CarMax Buy Cars With Transmission Problems?
Yes, CarMax can pay for cars with transmission problems. However, they may not necessarily be able to offer the best price for it. This is because they don’t specialize in vehicles that they can’t easily put back on their lots.
Instead, you should try to get an offer for your vehicle with transmission problems from a business that does specialize in damaged vehicles. DamagedCars has no problem paying the fair market price for a car with transmission issues. We include free towing with our offers, and can produce a quote in just 90 seconds. Plus, we’ll come to you in 24-48 hours after you accept our quote!
Will CarMax Buy A Nonrunning Car?
CarMax does take nonrunning cars, even if they do not prioritize nonrunning vehicles. However, it’s possible to get a better quote for your vehicle, as well as free towing and title transfer, with a service such as DamagedCars. We can make an offer for your vehicle in 90 seconds.
Does CarMax Buy Junk Cars?
Yes, CarMax can buy junk cars. However, for CarMax, damaged cars are typically more of an inconvenience than a valuable trade-in option. This is because they specialize in vehicles that they can easily put back on the lot.
There’s a better option than selling a junk car to CarMax: using DamagedCars. Junk cars are our specialty, and we’re happy to make offers for your car in any condition. It takes just 90 seconds to get a quote, and free towing is always included — we’ll come to you in 24-48 hours after you accept an offer, and you’ll get paid on the spot!
Does CarMax Pay Immediately When You Sell Your Car?
CarMax states that they provide same day payment in the form of a bank draft, which is a type of check. Bank drafts cannot be cashed — they must be deposited in an account.