What Motion Autohaus Is
Motion Autohaus is a used car dealership with locations in multiple states that buys, sells, and finances vehicles. The company operates physical showrooms where you can view inventory, test drive cars, and complete paperwork on-site. Motion Autohaus handles its own financing through in-house lending, meaning they approve loans and set terms directly rather than referring you to a bank.
The dealership focuses on used vehicles across a range of price points and model years. Like most car dealerships, Motion Autohaus makes money through the sale price of the vehicle, financing fees, and add-on services like extended warranties or maintenance packages. Understanding how the dealership operates helps you navigate the buying process and recognize where negotiation is possible.
Key Takeaways
- Motion Autohaus finances vehicles in-house, so approval decisions happen at the dealership rather than through a separate bank.
- You can view inventory online before visiting a showroom, and most locations allow you to reserve a vehicle for a short period.
- The dealership typically requires proof of income, a valid driver's license, and proof of insurance before completing a sale.
- Financing terms, interest rates, and down payment requirements vary based on your credit history and income, and these details are negotiable within limits.
- Extended warranties and service packages are optional add-ons that increase the total cost but are not required to purchase a vehicle.
How to Find and Reserve a Vehicle
Motion Autohaus maintains an online inventory on its website where you can filter by price, model year, mileage, and vehicle type. The listing includes photos, a description of the vehicle's condition, and the asking price. You can search by location if the company operates multiple showrooms in your area.
Once you find a vehicle you want to see in person, you can contact the dealership directly by phone or through the website to confirm it is still available and to schedule a time to visit. Some locations allow you to reserve a vehicle for a set number of days, though a reservation typically requires contact information and may require a small deposit. Confirm the reservation terms before you leave the showroom, as policies vary by location.
What Happens During a Test Drive and Walkthrough
When you arrive at the dealership, a sales representative will walk you through the vehicle's features, maintenance history, and any known issues. They will show you service records if available and explain the vehicle's condition honestly—used cars come with wear, and the dealership should disclose significant problems upfront.
You will then take the vehicle for a test drive, usually with a sales representative present. This is your chance to check how the car handles, listen for unusual noises, and test the brakes, steering, and climate control. If you are unsure about the vehicle's mechanical condition, you can ask to have it inspected by an independent mechanic before you commit to buying it. Many dealerships allow this, though it may delay the purchase by a day or two.
Understanding Motion Autohaus Financing
Motion Autohaus offers financing directly through the dealership rather than requiring you to find a loan elsewhere. To begin the financing process, you will need to provide proof of income (recent pay stubs or tax returns), a valid driver's license, and proof of current auto insurance. The dealership may also request references or contact information for your employer.
The dealership will review your information and make a lending decision based on your income, credit history, and the vehicle's value. Interest rates and down payment requirements depend on your credit profile—borrowers with stronger credit histories typically receive lower rates and may need a smaller down payment. The dealership will present you with a loan offer that includes the monthly payment, interest rate, loan term (usually 36 to 72 months), and total amount financed.
You are not required to accept the first offer. You can ask about different loan terms—for example, a shorter loan period with higher monthly payments, or a larger down payment to reduce the amount financed. The dealership has some flexibility within its lending guidelines, so it is worth discussing what works for your budget.
Documents You Will Sign at Purchase
Before you drive the vehicle off the lot, you will sign a purchase agreement that lists the vehicle's details (year, make, model, VIN, mileage), the sale price, and any add-ons you have chosen. You will also sign loan documents that outline the financing terms, monthly payment amount, due date, and what happens if you miss a payment.
The dealership will provide you with copies of all signed paperwork. Keep these documents in a safe place—you will need them for insurance purposes, warranty claims, and proof of ownership. The dealership handles the title transfer and registration paperwork, though you may need to visit your state's motor vehicle department to complete registration in your name.
Optional Add-Ons and Extended Warranties
Motion Autohaus typically offers extended warranties, maintenance packages, and gap insurance as optional purchases. An extended warranty covers repairs beyond the manufacturer's warranty period; a maintenance package covers routine services like oil changes and tire rotations; gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on the loan and the vehicle's value if it is totaled in an accident.
These add-ons increase the total amount you finance and your monthly payment. They are not required to purchase the vehicle. Before you agree to any add-on, ask the dealership for a written description of what is covered, how long the coverage lasts, and whether there are deductibles or exclusions. Compare the cost against what you might pay out of pocket for repairs or maintenance over the same period.
What to Do If You Have Problems After Purchase
If the vehicle develops a mechanical problem shortly after purchase, contact the dealership when ready. Most dealerships stand behind their vehicles for a short period (often 30 to 90 days) and will repair or replace vehicles with serious defects. Check your purchase agreement to see what warranty or may provide the dealership offered.
If the dealership refuses to address a problem and you believe the vehicle was misrepresented, you may have recourse under your state's lemon law or consumer protection rules. Document the problem with photos and service records, and contact your state's attorney general's office or consumer protection agency for guidance. Having an independent mechanic's inspection report strengthens your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trade in my old car at Motion Autohaus?
Most Motion Autohaus locations accept trade-ins. The dealership will appraise your vehicle and explore its value as a credit toward the purchase price of the new car. Bring your title, keys, and maintenance records so the appraiser can assess the vehicle's condition accurately.
What if I want to return the vehicle within a few days?
Motion Autohaus does not typically offer a return or cooling-off period once you have signed the purchase agreement and driven the vehicle off the lot. The sale is final. Before you sign, make sure you are confident in your decision and that you have had the vehicle inspected if you had concerns about its condition.
How long does the financing process take?
Financing decisions usually happen the same day you visit the dealership, assuming you bring all required documents. The entire purchase process—from approval through signing paperwork and driving off the lot—typically takes two to four hours. If the dealership needs to verify your income or employment, approval may take an additional day.
What happens if I miss a loan payment?
Missing a payment will result in late fees and may damage your credit score. If you miss multiple payments, the dealership may repossess the vehicle. If you are struggling to make a payment, contact the dealership as soon as possible to discuss options like a payment deferment or loan modification.
Does Motion Autohaus report my loan to credit bureaus?
Yes, Motion Autohaus reports loan activity to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). On-time payments will build your credit history, while late or missed payments will lower your credit score. You can check your credit report for free once per year at annualcreditreport.com.