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DriveTime Reviews

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About DriveTime

DriveTime Automotive Group Inc., based out of Phoenix, Arizona, operates more than 140 dealerships in the U.S. and is one of the nation's largest used car dealership networks. The company focuses on helping you find a great vehicle, and its approval process lets you know your down payment and monthly payments before you start shopping.

Visit www.drivetime.com
Pros
  • Quick application process
  • Five-day return guarantee
  • Options for all credit backgrounds
Cons
  • Interest rates on the higher end

Helpful Reviews

Carlsbad, CA
Verified purchase

Signed up and was thrilled with the speed and simplicity of the service. Pricing was fair, value was straightforward and shipping was fast and convenient. My dog loves the food...

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Hampton, SC
Verified purchase
Best investment in a property we've made so far! I especially love having the app and the convenience of knowing when each door opens and closes. Having the peace of mind of being...

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What is DriveTime?

DriveTime.com is an online car-buying site with more than 140 dealerships across the United States. DriveTime has a streamlined process for financing and buying cars for people with different credit histories.

You can complete the application process online and see financing terms for the company’s thousands of used cars for sale without impacting your credit score. Each used car, truck, van or SUV includes a free AutoCheck history report and comes with a five-day return policy and a 30-day/1,500-mile limited warranty.

How does DriveTime work?

DriveTime’s dealership employees, referred to as customer experience guides (CEGs), are salaried employees who do not work on commission, which means you’re less likely to face pushy sales tactics. The company’s CEGs provide customers with the most useful information possible to help you find the right vehicle for your situation.

The DriveTime Advice Center on the company’s website has a wealth of resources on credit scores, auto financing and personal savings goals. You can search for the nearest DriveTime location on the company’s website to view vehicles in person.

DriveTime used car inventory

DriveTime has thousands of vehicles at over 140 locations in the United States, so customers looking for their next car or SUV have no shortage of choices. When browsing cars online on DriveTime’s website, you can view each vehicle’s safety rating, features, mileage and AutoCheck history report. DriveTime also accepts trade-ins.

DriveTime payment

All financing for a DriveTime purchase is done in-house, and the company is open to accepting any credit score, including no credit at all. DriveTime down payments will vary based on the price of the vehicle and the customer’s financial situation.

DriveTime features

Other features from DriveTime include:

  • Two-minute online approval: All you have to do is enter some basic information, and in a few minutes you’ll know whether you’ve been approved for DriveTime financing.
  • Free AutoCheck vehicle history reports: To see the full history of your vehicle and make sure it hasn’t been in any accidents, just view the AutoCheck report that comes with every DriveTime vehicle.
  • Five-day return policy: If you are dissatisfied with your vehicle for whatever reason, you can return it to DriveTime within five days.
  • Complimentary 30-day/1,500-mile limited warranty: This warranty will help keep you covered in case of an unexpected breakdown or another malfunction of the vehicle.
  • Range of options for down payments: Depending on your current financial situation, DriveTime can allow for varying amounts of down payments.

DriveTime FAQ

Is DriveTime a “buy-here, pay-here” dealership?

Yes. You can apply for financing through a DriveTime location, which makes it a “buy-here, pay-here” (BHPH) dealership.

Does DriveTime work with bad credit?

DriveTime works with people with all credit histories, including car buyers with poor or bad credit.

Does DriveTime take trade-ins?

DriveTime does accept trade-ins. You can start the trade-in process online and complete it at one of the company’s physical dealerships.

Still have questions?

Is DriveTime good?

DriveTime is a good option for car buyers of all credit backgrounds who want a streamlined financing and purchasing process. DriveTime has more than just a wide array of used cars at fair prices. Additional features like a five-day vehicle return policy and a 30-day/1,500-mile limited warranty make it a solid choice for your next vehicle purchase.

DriveTime Reviews

Over 10k reviews since 2012

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    2 featured reviews
    How do I know I can trust these reviews about DriveTime?
    • 4,953,825 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
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    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.
    Page 1 Reviews 0 - 35
    Verified purchase
    Customer ServiceSales & MarketingMaintenanceStaffRates

    Reviewed Aug. 21, 2026

    I saw a vehicle of interest online. I was called the next business morning. Asked a few questions and told I could go to my appt at 12. I went and could not make up my mind which vehicle I wanted. I test drove 4 of them. It was SMOKING HOT outside. Lee my sales rep never broke a sweat, I was about to die. It was so hot. Lee, was just absolutely phenomenal. Answered our questions and if she didn't know she said let me look. That girl worked hard and patiently. She never got frustrated. It was now 5:55pm and my mind was still wondering which one to get. Lee didn't even take a lunch break.

    Finally I decided on the Jeep Cherokee Limited the very reason I went to this lot. Lee was most likely thinking, "Lord. I can finally get this girl on the road." Lol. But she never showed that, her business leadership was excellent, not pushy and she knew exactly what I really wanted. But she allowed my husband and I to talk about each car without intervening. Lee I love OUR JEEP! Thank you soo much for your kindness and respectful help. Thank you for not letting me die in that heat. Tell your co-worker thank you for the fan as well. I 100% recommend Lee and Drive Time, it was simple, I was complicated. But my JEEP 4X4 IS WONDERFUL! Thank you LEE and all your wonderful co-workers. Even the manager was so very nice!

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      Verified purchase
      Sales & MarketingMaintenanceStaffBilling

      Reviewed July 31, 2026

      My sales rep Elijah made the whole process easy for me to understand and just overall less of a headache, by going over all the numbers with me and by always taking his time to break down why I should look at getting one car vs the other car by checking the year and the miles. Also we did a check over of the car before filling out paper work to buy the car, he showed my all my options that I could look at as far as how much I had to put down for my down payment amount. The whole process left me feeling confident that I made the right choice in who I was buying a car from, also he helped my set up the payment app so that I don’t miss out on my monthly payments and also help me set up to the jack system that is on the car so if anything happens at the car, I can track my car! Overall a 10/10 would recommend go to Elijah. He was great.

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      Verified purchase
      StaffBillingHonesty & Transparency

      Reviewed July 11, 2026

      I was very pleased with my experience at Drive Time. Elliot was very helpful and showed himself to be very honest and direct about every aspect of the process of purchasing a vehicle. He not only answered all of my questions but offered information that I needed to know but was unaware to ask. My credit wasn't outstanding and yet he went to great means to help me purchase my dream car. Unlike other dealerships I went to where I was told to save a few thousand dollars for a down payment and come back, He worked his magic and I was able to purchase without a down payment and with positive effort on his part I drove off the lot in my new Chevy Malibu LT the car I've have been wanting for years. I looked for this car for a year and a half to find what I was looking for and Drive Time was the only one to make it happen. I recommend them highly!!! 5 *****

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      Verified purchase
      Refunds & Payouts

      Reviewed July 2, 2026

      Bob was great! The problem is, when you have a customer who had very limited options for a place to buy a car BECAUSE of his credit, and you basically have to pay for the vehicle TWICE (not anyone's fault but my own) you'd think that they would at least make sure ALL of the fluids are filled (engine oil) and or letting the customer know where to find the wheel lock key (never found)... No problem, because I work in the industry. Now this is the first review I have given in my life as well as that was the biggest purchase in my life. Just saying if someone has to go to you to buy a car, make the experience as it was like I had good credit, you know like when going to a Manufacturing dealer. Maybe this is now everything works, idk. I would absolutely go back and see Bob, though!

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServiceStaffRates

      Reviewed June 17, 2026

      Yesterday I had outstanding experience of great customer service. Starting from the top of the company which was manager Erica providing a follow up call to see if I had made to the store. Providing great input on the inventory of items that was on the parking lot. Once I arrived I was greeted with a smile and a handshake by salesman Michael **. He took is time to present the different options that was going to fit my liking within a car. Once I narrowed down my specific interest he laid out the last couple of options that was going fit my like. He gave me ample amount of time with no pressure while researching down to the specifics for each car. The paperwork process was very smooth. The manager Erica made sure all my questions were asked. I must say the facility was in A+ shape down to the restrooms and vending area. Please give this location of East Colonial Orlando 5 stars out of 5! Great Job!

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      Verified purchase
      Customer Service

      Reviewed Aug. 31, 2026

      We had the best customer service. We will be buying more vehicles from here.

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServiceTransparency

      Reviewed Aug. 31, 2026

      Great customer service, very transparent and explained everything well.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 31, 2026

      The salesman Antonio was very helpful. He got me into a nice vehicle and it didn’t have any problems.

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      Verified purchase
      Sales & MarketingSales Tactics

      Reviewed Aug. 30, 2026

      It was very pleasant, no pushy sales, just straight to the deal. Will be doing business with in the future.

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      Verified purchase
      Sales & MarketingOnline & AppRefunds & PayoutsStaffBilling

      Reviewed Aug. 30, 2026

      My salesperson, Eva was wonderful; and made the process easy. The only thing that upsets me, is the payment amount. On the website, I was approved for 0 down, and a payment of $562/month. I didn't have to put anything down, but my payment is $731/month. I could have purchased a 2026 Camry with 0 miles for $688/month. I think this qualifies as a bait and switch tactic.

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      DriveTime
      Response from DriveTime

      Thank you for reaching out. We offer personalized financing options for each customer. We look at many factors when it comes to your terms, including income, credit score, and vehicle selected, which can affect the down payment and monthly payments. We also accept outside financing. If you would like to view the available inventory or submit an application, please visit our website at www.DriveTime.com.

      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 30, 2026

      Jennifer very professional. Kind and helped me get my new car. Thank you.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 30, 2026

      It was so easy. William was very nice and extremely knowledgeable. I've never been able to buy a car until Drive time. Amazing experience. Sent my mom to a drive where she lives and she got her new car today. Thanks!

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 29, 2026

      Great experience. Definitely will purchase a car for DriveTime again. Excellent customer from

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 29, 2026

      James worked very hard to get me the deal I needed and I love my new car. He walked me through every step and made it painless.

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      Verified purchase
      CoverageBilling

      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      There were warranties and those Jack added to the policy that I didn't agree with adding. This increase my payment. Now today I've been having problems getting both hold of the finance company and the insurance company.

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      DriveTime
      Response from DriveTime

      Thank you for providing us with your feedback regarding your experience with our Bakersfield location. It's our goal to provide all our potential customers a personalized and comfortable experience. If at any time the service level or communication at DriveTime is not up to our standards, we would definitely like the opportunity to address this. If you have any additional questions, please DM us or contact our Customer Relations Department at (888) 290-0148 and an agent would be happy to assist.

      Verified purchase
      Coverage

      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      The experience buying the car was great, but 2 days after having the car it started blowing out white smoke from the tail pipe, and come to find out the head casket is blown. Hoping the warranty company covers everything.

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      DriveTime
      Response from DriveTime

      Thank you for leaving your review, Marissa Mendoza. We understand that mechanical concerns are never ideal. All our vehicles go through our inspection process which is backed by a Limited Warranty for mechanical failures within the first 30-days/1,500-miles. We also offer a 5-day Vehicle Return Policy, that allows our customers the opportunity to inspect and get comfortable with their purchase. If you have additional questions, please send us a DM or call our Customer Relations Department at (888) 290-0148.

      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 28, 2026

      Great and rewarding experience, Juwan ** your advisor was great.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 27, 2026

      Everyone was helpful and professional and kind. In this day and time you don't met too many people who care

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServiceStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 26, 2026

      I shopped this past weekend at the Metairie location, it was a pleasure working with Mr. ** and Ms. **. They took great care of my husband and I, they gave exceptional customer service, great energy and made sure we left in something that met our needs, was reliable, and we can be proud to drive! Thank you again!!!

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 26, 2026

      Elena was very helpful. She told me that she would have me out in one hour. I was walking out of the door in one hour. Thank you Elena for the exceptional service.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 26, 2026

      Top-notch. Top Tier. Higher than practitioner-grade services.

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      Customer ServiceCoverageMaintenanceStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 26, 2026

      Buyer beware. Just two days after purchasing my vehicle from DriveTime, warning lights came on. The warranty company sent me to a dealership for an inspection, and I was told that my brakes and rotors needed immediate replacement. Despite being told that I had a 100% warranty for the first 30 days, the warranty company refuses to cover the rotors. DriveTime has the authority to step in and have the repair covered but has refused to help. Please have any vehicle thoroughly inspected before signing for it. Check the brakes, rotors, and any other critical components so you know exactly what you're getting. I am very disappointed with the lack of support and customer service in resolving this issue. Because of this experience, I would not recommend Drive Time to friends, family, or anyone.

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      DriveTime
      Response from DriveTime

      Thank you for leaving your review, Melissa Shinkle. We understand that mechanical concerns are never ideal. All our vehicles go through our inspection process which is backed by a Limited Warranty for mechanical failures within the first 30-days/1,500-miles. We also offer a 5-day Vehicle Return Policy, that allows our customers the opportunity to inspect and get comfortable with their purchase. If you have additional questions, please send us a DM or call our Customer Relations Department at (888) 290-0148.

      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 25, 2026

      I was very hesitant and nervous but Eyerman put me at ease with his relaxed mannerisms. The qualifying and completion of paperwork was very smooth. Thank you for a great experience.

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      Verified purchase
      Sales & MarketingStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 25, 2026

      The salesperson was very nice, helpful, and knowledgeable.

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      Verified purchase
      Customer ServiceStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 25, 2026

      I absolutely love the customer service. LeAira was amazing. Extremely informative. Will definitely refer to DriveTime.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 24, 2026

      Great Experience. Shaw was Great!! Would recommend this Drive Time if you are looking for a new or used car.

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      Verified purchase
      Sales & MarketingStaff

      Reviewed Aug. 24, 2026

      I had a great experience. It was busy but I was still able to get out in less than 3 hours. With only two salespeople working!! Kalani was very knowledgeable and helpful!

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      Verified purchase
      Customer Service

      Reviewed Aug. 24, 2026

      The best customer service experience ever! It was a fun time getting my new vehicle. Thank you 1000/10.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 23, 2026

      Great service. I will recommend family and friends.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 23, 2026

      Great experience with Drivetime and with Nickola!!

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      Verified purchase
      Rates

      Reviewed Aug. 23, 2026

      I would rate them 10 for 10. They all did a great job.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 23, 2026

      Ahmenah, was amazing with paperwork, patience and explaining everything. If I had a question, she would gladly answer it. Nothing was rushed, and it was a great experience. I would definitely buy a car from her again. If I had any yuck to say it would be that just the car that I purchased was very dirty on the interior.

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      Verified purchase
      Punctuality & Speed

      Reviewed Aug. 23, 2026

      Very easy and fast service. Was in and out in 45 mins. No hassle at all.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 23, 2026

      When I walked in the manager greeted me very nice, then Jesus helped me, was very patient. My experience was great. Will tell friends and family.

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      Verified purchase

      Reviewed Aug. 22, 2026

      We had no issue getting a vehicle and loves the service.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 22, 2026

      Matt ** was amazing! Very helpful and went above and beyond to meet my needs!!

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 21, 2026

      I had a great time with Charlie. He was very helpful and patient with me and took his time to make sure I understood everything.

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      CoverageTechSales & MarketingPricePunctuality & SpeedRefunds & PayoutsStaffBillingRates

      Reviewed Aug. 21, 2026

      My experiences with the DriveTime sales team was not bad. They were kind and very professional. There is a down side to this company though. Drivetime offers quick purchases for people with credit issues. On one hand, one can get financing easier because DriveTime banks through one institution versus bigger dealerships where their banks will either approve with a higher down payment or do not approve at all. Drivetime finances with crazy high interests and high mileage cars. This company gives dirty cars to their customers, I mean, you literally need to wash and detail yourself. Straight- off the lot. Some customers do not understand the high interest and the 72 month financing DT offers or rather insists on, which is a huge disadvantage to the customer. Do the Math!

      If you try to push your payments and prolong the contract to the very end, you would have paid for two cars, and with high mileage, the vehicle would not be worth much as a trade-in compared to what you just paid in financing all those months. The zero down option is good but it comes at a price that the sales people dont quite point out, especially if you're desperate for some wheels. My advice, do your home work. I deliberately chose drive time for the zero down and also coming out of a bankruptcy. However, I will occasionally double my payments to avoid all that interest. Do not pay to the end of the 72 month contract if you can help it. Add an extra 100 to 200 to your payments which will go towards the principal balance. Don't let desperation cloud your judgment and also get a kelly blue book value on the car even if you need to do it yourself.

      I exchanged two cars before my final choice...the first one cut off at the light when I was going home from work. The second choice had a rebuilt engine that was not sitting correctly in the chassis which caused the car to shake at 50 miles an hour. None of these issues were made relevant to me during the purchases. I discovered that two bolts on the rebuilt motor was missing as well. A cute car that looks nice is not what makes a car. It's the quality, performance, and reliability. They also encourage the Gap insurance as an add on. Why, well because they buy these cars from auctions. Good Luck in your car purchases and I hope my advice will help you to make informed decisions. My final choice was much better than the first two. Lower miles, only downside... the previous owner was a smoker, also not revealed to me. Slight smoke scent in the airvents so I had to bomb the car out.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 21, 2026

      My experience with DriveTime was nothing but awesome. I worked with the locations in Antioch and Madison, TN and they were so patient with me and my family. Big ups to Josh that works at the Antioch, TN location for helping us narrow down our vehicle choice. Also, kudos to Ozzy from the Madison, TN location for helping us get everything we needed paperwork-wise in order for us to drive off with our new vehicle. I will definitely recommend both locations and will be leaving a review on Google for both.

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      Verified purchase
      Staff

      Reviewed Aug. 20, 2026

      David and Patrick were simply amazing. Absolutely the best service we ever received from any auto dealer anywhere. I would definitely recommend them to everyone.

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      DriveTime Company Information

      Social media:
      Company Name:
      DriveTime
      Company Type:
      Private
      Year Founded:
      2002
      Address:
      1720 West Rio Salado
      City:
      Tempe
      State/Province:
      AZ
      Postal Code:
      85281
      Country:
      United States
      Website:
      www.drivetime.com

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