I’ve been in the auto industry for just about 15 years now. I’ve worked on cars, sold parts and services on cars, and detailed cars.

My general rule of thumb, after dealing with several hundred used car “buy here pay here” types, is to just AVOID THEM COMPLETELY. They almost never use factory parts, usually cheap aftermarket or used parts, they employ hack job mechanics, and they usually have sketchy financing practices.

I’m not totally advocated for a franchised dealer, as there are horror stories there too, but having been on both sides of the transaction usually the dealer will treat you better, as their reputation is their biggest asset. That, and they’d rather use their own factory parts so every department in the dealership makes money.

A few of the non franchise dealers I can honestly recommend are Linders in Worcester, Harbro I’m Whitinsville and Uxbridge Auto. Always get a carfax, and have it inspected by an independent mechanic. Check for uneven gaps in the body panels, mismatched paint or overspray paint.