Frequently Asked Questions
Inventory and Vehicle Information
Q: What types of vehicles do you specialize in?
A: At Zim's Auto Sales, we specialize in a wide range of American brands including Chevrolet, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, as well as Toyota, Honda, GMC, BMW, Kia, Cadillac, Hyundai, Acura, Volkswagen, Land Rover, Mini, and Lincoln. Our selection focuses on premium pre-owned vehicles.
Q: How often is your inventory updated?
A: Our inventory is updated weekly with an average of 5 cars added to our selection to ensure you have the latest options to choose from.
Q: Can customers request a vehicle you don't currently have in stock?
A: While we primarily sell vehicles that are currently in our inventory, we can notify you if we receive a vehicle that matches your request.
Q: Do you provide vehicle history reports?
A: Yes, we provide a free Carfax report for all our vehicles to ensure transparency and trust in the quality of our inventory.
Financing
Q: What financing options are available?
A: We offer financing through partnerships with local, regional, and national banks and credit unions. However, we do not offer in-house financing.
Q: Do you offer financing for customers with bad credit or no credit?
A: Yes, we work with various banks that offer financing options for customers with bad credit or no credit. While nothing is guaranteed, we strive to find the best rates, terms, and deals possible.
Q: What is the process for applying for financing?
A: The financing application process involves selecting a vehicle, completing a brief application, and letting us handle the rest. We work directly with banks to secure approval, usually within 24 hours or less.
Q: Are there any down payment requirements?
A: Down payment requirements vary based on credit, income, and the chosen vehicle, with $1,000 to $3,000 being the typical range.
Trade-ins
Q: Do you accept trade-ins?
A: Yes, we accept trade-ins, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles, as long as they're running. However, we do not accept vehicles with bad titles, such as rebuilt or water-damaged titles.
Q: How do you determine the value of a trade-in?
A: We use Carfax, JD Power trade-in values, and our assessment of auction potential to determine trade-in values.
Q: Can trade-in value be used towards the down payment?
A: Absolutely. Trade-in value can be applied towards the down payment, provided you have positive equity in the vehicle. This also provides a tax credit advantage.
Warranties and Services
Q: What types of warranties are available with your vehicles?
A: We offer extended warranties through two companies, RCWS and GSFS/SecureNet Essentials, with various plans to suit your needs.
Q: Do you offer any service contracts or maintenance plans?
A: Yes, we offer service contracts through RCWS and GSFS that can cover up to a million miles, even for vehicles with high mileage.
Q: What is covered under a warranty or service contract?
A: Coverage varies by plan but typically ranges from comprehensive "bumper-to-bumper" coverage to basic plans covering major components like the engine and transmission.
Test Drives and Sales
Q: How can customers schedule a test drive?
A: Customers can schedule a test drive through our website by selecting a vehicle and filling out a simple form. We also offer a direct option under each vehicle listing for convenience.
Q: What is your policy on test drives?
A: A valid US driver's license is required, and a sales consultant will accompany you. Financing customers must complete a pre-qualification. A liability form must also be signed.
Q: Can customers purchase cars online?
A: Yes, the entire purchase process can be completed online, from vehicle selection to signing paperwork via DocuSign. We also coordinate delivery for your convenience.
Q: What is your return policy?
A: All vehicles are sold as-is, and we conduct thorough inspections before sale. We do not offer a return policy but ensure the quality and readiness of all vehicles.
General
Q: What are your dealership's hours of operation?
A: Our sales department is open Monday to Friday, 9 AM - 5:30 PM, and Saturday, 9 AM - 2:30 PM. The service department operates on similar hours but closes at 1 PM on Saturdays.
Q: What COVID-19 safety measures are in place at your dealership?
A: We prioritize cleanliness and safety by sanitizing desks and chairs daily and maintaining a clean environment throughout our dealership.
Q: How can customers contact you for more information?
A: For more information, please contact us at general@zimsautos.com or call/text 574-652-5746.
