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514 Reviews

CarMax Review 2025

Daniel Blechynden
Daniel Blechynden writes for Top10.com and specializes in tech, with a focus on web hosting and website building, personal finance and investing, the sciences, and digital marketing. He holds degrees in Chemistry and Marine Science from the University of Western Australia and has written for a number of leading publications.

September 24, 2025

2 min

carmax
Car pickup service
Home pickup or drop-off
Same-day payment
Yes, check only
Trade-in option
Yes

In a Nutshell

CarMax will buy pretty much any car, and the offer on your vehicle will be the same whether you decide to buy a car from CarMax or not. With over 250 locations across the U.S. and the option to get an instant offer for your car online, CarMax ensures convenience and reliability.

CarMax Pros & Cons

Pros

No hassle appraisal offer
Online and offline appraisals
Comprehensive inspection process

Cons

You could potentially get more money through a private sale
Limited availability in some areas
carmax

CarMax at a Glance

9.4
Editorial Score

States Served

41 states
8.0

Car Condition

Any condition accepted
10.0

Sell or Trade-In

Option to sell or trade-in
10.0

Pickup Service

Pickup service available in select markets
9.0

Payment

Get paid by bank transfer or cash, same day payment issued
10.0

CarMax Pricing

CarMax offers a straightforward, no-haggle model, ensuring transparency and simplicity in transactions. When selling your car to CarMax, you can start by receiving a real offer online or in-store based on your vehicle's details, and that’s good for seven days. If you decide to redeem an online offer, after verifying your car’s condition at a CarMax location, you will leave with payment in hand. An offer will only be adjusted if a car’s condition, use, or history differs from the information you provided. All offers are good for seven days, giving you time to consider.

Selling Details:

  • No Charge, No Obligation: CarMax does not charge you for an appraisal online or in-store, and there’s no obligation to sell.
  • Immediate Payment: Once you redeem the offer and your car’s condition is verified in-store, you will receive payment on the same day via a bank draft.
  • Competitive Offer: Offers are based on your vehicle’s year, make, model, trim, mileage, conditions, and history, as well as market conditions and other factors. The convenience and speed of the transaction are significant advantages compared to a private sale.

How to Sell a Car with CarMax

Selling your car to CarMax involves a streamlined process:

  1. Online Offer: Start by filling out the form on the CarMax website to get an offer. Enter detailed information about your vehicle, including its mileage, condition, and any optional equipment. (You can also get an offer in-store at any CarMax location, if you prefer.)
  2. In-Person Verification: Once you’re ready to redeem the offer, visit a CarMax to verify your vehicle’s condition and history.
  3. Get Paid: Once the offer is verified, you’ll receive payment on the same day via bank draft. You can also choose to trade in and use the sales amount towards purchasing another vehicle from CarMax.

Customer Service

CarMax offers robust customer support through multiple channels, including phone, email, and chat. Their customer service is available during extended hours to accommodate various schedules. Additionally, CarMax provides extensive online resources, such as FAQs and blogs, to assist customers throughout the selling process.

Is CarMax Legit?

CarMax is highly regarded for its transparent business practices and customer-centric approach. It holds a strong reputation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and receives positive customer reviews on aggregator sites, which highlight its customer service and straightforward process.

What’s Unique About CarMax?

  • Real Offers, Not Estimates: CarMax provides a firm offer online or in person.
  • Flexible Selling Options: You can get an offer to sell your car either online or at a CarMax location, giving you control over the process.
  • Seven-Day Offer: CarMax’s offers are valid for seven days, allowing time to compare options and make the best decision.
  • Express Drop-Off: Skip the hassle — for many transactions, you can reduce your time in-store by starting the selling process at home.
  • Immediate Payment: Sellers receive payment on the same day the offer is accepted

Help and Support

CarMax provides extensive customer support options:

  • Phone: Available during business hours for immediate assistance.
  • Email: For detailed inquiries and support.
  • Chat: Real-time support for quick questions.
  • FAQs and Blogs: Comprehensive online resources for additional guidance.

What About the CarMax App?

CarMax has a mobile app that allows users to manage their car transactions, including selling their vehicle. The app provides most of the same comprehensive tools and features available on the CarMax website, ensuring a seamless experience whether online or on mobile.

Bottom Line

CarMax offers a unique, customer-friendly approach to selling used cars. Its transparent pricing, seven-day offer, and immediate payment make it a reliable choice for many. While the offers might be slightly lower than private sales, the convenience and security provided by CarMax are significant advantages for sellers.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is CarMax a good place to sell your car?
Yes, CarMax offers a streamlined and transparent process with competitive offers.
Does CarMax offer immediate payment?
Yes, CarMax provides same-day payment via bank draft on the same day you sell your car.
What documents do I need to sell my car to CarMax?
Requirements can vary from state to state, but there are a few items you'll need no matter where you are: your car's title or payoff information, valid and current registrations, valid state-issued photo ID for all titleholders, and all keys and remotes.

How do I know I can trust this review?

Our editors are serious about research - we combine our own experience with the services we recommend with reviews that come from verified users–just like you! Together with reviews from industry experts to ensure you choose with confidence and ease.

Daniel Blechynden

Daniel Blechynden writes for Top10.com and specializes in tech, with a focus on web hosting and website building, personal finance and investing, the sciences, and digital marketing. He holds degrees in Chemistry and Marine Science from the University of Western Australia and has written for a number of leading publications.

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