Drivetime.com Review

Based on checking the website Drivetime.com, this platform is an online used car retailer that aims to simplify the car-buying process, particularly for individuals with varying credit histories.

The site emphasizes its inventory of inspected used cars, its financing solutions, and a streamlined digital experience.

While the premise of making car ownership accessible is commendable, a thorough review reveals areas where the service might not align with ethical financial practices, especially concerning interest-based financing, which is a significant concern from an Islamic perspective.

Overall Review Summary:

• Website Focus: Online used car sales, financing for various credit profiles.
• Key Services: Used car inventory, personalized financing, online application, home delivery options.
• Transparency: Provides vehicle details and financing pre-qualification.
• Ethical Concerns Islamic Perspective: Predominantly relies on interest-based financing riba, which is strictly prohibited in Islam. This makes the core service model problematic for Muslim consumers.
• User Experience: Website is generally well-designed and easy to navigate, with clear calls to action for browsing cars and applying for financing.
• Overall Recommendation: Not recommended due to the inherent reliance on interest-based financing.

The platform positions itself as a solution for getting into a used car with minimal hassle, offering features like a 15-day money-back guarantee and a detailed vehicle inspection process.

0.0 0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews) Excellent0% Very good0% Average0% Poor0% Terrible0% There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. Your review Your overall rating Select a Rating5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star Title of your review Your review Your name Your email This review is based on my own experience and is my genuine opinion. ​ Submit Review

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Drivetime.com Review Latest Discussions & Reviews:

However, the reliance on conventional financing models, which involve interest riba, makes Drivetime.com unsuitable for those seeking to adhere to Islamic financial principles.

For Muslim consumers, engaging in interest-based transactions is a grave concern, as it is viewed as an exploitative and unjust system.

While the convenience and accessibility might seem appealing, the underlying financial structure is a significant deterrent.

Instead, consumers should explore ethical alternatives that facilitate car ownership through permissible means, such as profit-sharing, lease-to-own ijara, or direct cash purchases, thereby avoiding the pitfalls of riba.

Best Ethical Alternatives for Car Ownership Not Directly Drivetime.com Competitors, but Ethical Car Acquisition Methods:

• Islamic Auto Financing via Credit Unions/Banks: Many Islamic financial institutions or specialized departments within conventional banks offer Sharia-compliant auto financing.

  

  • Key Features: Murabaha cost-plus financing or Ijarah lease-to-own contracts, no interest charged.
  • Price: Varies based on vehicle cost and financing terms. typically involves a profit margin for the financier instead of interest.
  • Pros: Adheres to Islamic principles, often competitive rates, structured repayment plans.
  • Cons: Fewer providers compared to conventional financing, may require more paperwork, options might be limited geographically.

• Cash Purchase through Savings: The most straightforward and undeniably halal method.

  • Key Features: No debt, no interest, full ownership from day one.
  • Price: The full cash price of the vehicle.
  • Pros: Complete freedom from financial obligations, peace of mind, potentially better negotiation power.
  • Cons: Requires significant upfront savings, might take longer to acquire a desired vehicle.

• Reputable Local Used Car Dealerships Cash/Halal Financing: Purchasing from dealerships that accept cash or are willing to work with external halal financing providers.

  • Key Features: Direct inspection of vehicles, negotiation opportunities, ability to arrange independent Sharia-compliant financing.
  • Price: Varies by vehicle, dealership, and negotiation.
  • Pros: Physical inspection, local support, potential for good deals, can use halal financing.
  • Cons: Requires due diligence to find ethical dealerships, can be time-consuming.

• Peer-to-Peer Car Sales Cash: Buying directly from private sellers.

  • Key Features: Often lower prices than dealerships, direct negotiation, ideal for cash purchases.
  • Price: Typically market value, but negotiable.
  • Pros: Potentially significant savings, direct communication with seller.
  • Cons: No dealer warranty, requires more personal effort for inspection and paperwork, higher risk of undisclosed issues.

• Vehicle Maintenance & Repair Tools: Investing in tools for basic vehicle upkeep can extend the life of an existing car, delaying the need for a new purchase.

  • Key Features: Wrenches, jacks, diagnostic scanners, tire pressure gauges.
  • Price: Varies widely, from basic tool kits $50-$200 to specialized equipment.
  • Pros: Saves money on minor repairs, empowers car owners, promotes self-reliance.
  • Cons: Requires some mechanical aptitude, not a direct car acquisition method.

• Public Transportation Resources: Utilizing buses, trains, or ride-sharing services as an alternative to car ownership.

  • Key Features: Reduced expenses insurance, fuel, maintenance, environmental benefits.
  • Price: Monthly passes for public transport Public transit passes or per-ride costs for ride-sharing.
  • Pros: Economical, reduces carbon footprint, less stress about parking and traffic.
  • Cons: Limited by route availability and schedules, less flexibility than personal car ownership.

• Bicycles and E-Bikes: For shorter commutes or urban environments, bicycles and electric bikes offer a sustainable and often quicker alternative.

  • Key Features: Various models from commuter bikes to e-bikes.
  • Price: Bicycles can range from $200-$2000+, e-bikes from $800-$4000+.
  • Pros: Healthy, environmentally friendly, cost-effective for short distances, avoids traffic.
  • Cons: Weather dependent, limited carrying capacity, not suitable for long distances or heavy loads.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Drivetime.com: An In-Depth Examination of its Business Model

Drivetime.com operates as an online used car dealership, aiming to streamline the often-complex process of buying a pre-owned vehicle.

Their model is built on offering a substantial inventory of used cars, coupled with an emphasis on tailored financing solutions, particularly for individuals who may have struggled with traditional credit.

This approach seeks to provide convenience through a digital platform where customers can browse, select, and even arrange delivery of a vehicle.

However, the core financial mechanism—interest-based loans—raises significant ethical flags from an Islamic perspective, making it problematic for a substantial portion of the global consumer base.

What is Drivetime.com?

Drivetime.com is an online and in-person used car retailer headquartered in Tempe, Arizona. Spamigo.com Review

Established in 2002, the company has grown to become one of the largest used car dealerships in the United States, operating through a network of dealerships and its robust online platform.

Their primary selling proposition is making car ownership accessible to a wide range of credit profiles, including those with less-than-perfect credit.

The platform’s interface allows users to pre-qualify for financing, browse a large inventory of vehicles, and complete much of the purchase process digitally, including trade-ins and vehicle delivery options.

Drivetime.com Business Model and Operations

Drivetime.com’s business model integrates both online convenience and physical dealership presence.

They acquire used vehicles, perform inspections and reconditioning, and then list them for sale. Shoreexcursionsgroup.com Review

A key differentiator is their in-house financing arm, Bridgecrest, which allows them to offer loans directly to customers, often tailoring terms to individual credit scores.

This integrated approach aims to control the entire customer journey from vehicle selection to financing approval.

• Inventory Management: Drivetime.com maintains a large and diverse inventory of used cars, trucks, and SUVs. They typically focus on vehicles that are a few years old, aiming for a sweet spot of affordability and reliability.
• Reconditioning and Inspection: Each vehicle undergoes a multi-point inspection process, often cited as a key benefit for buyers concerned about used car quality.
• Online Platform: The website serves as the central hub for customers to explore inventory, view vehicle details, calculate potential payments, and apply for financing.
• Financing Solutions: This is where Drivetime.com truly differentiates itself. They offer in-house financing, allowing them to approve a wider range of credit profiles than traditional banks. This often involves subprime lending, which comes with higher interest rates.
• Customer Service and Sales: While much of the process is digital, they maintain a network of dealerships and customer service representatives to assist with test drives, paperwork, and post-purchase support.

Drivetime.com’s Reliance on Interest-Based Financing

The fundamental issue with Drivetime.com, from an ethical standpoint, is its heavy reliance on interest-based financing, also known as “riba” in Islamic jurisprudence.

Riba is strictly forbidden in Islam because it is seen as an unjust and exploitative practice that generates wealth from money itself rather than from productive economic activity or legitimate trade.

• The Concept of Riba: In Islam, any predetermined increase over the principal amount of a loan is considered riba. This applies whether the interest is charged on a loan or paid on a deposit. The Quran and Sunnah explicitly prohibit it.
• Impact on Consumers: While Drivetime.com offers accessibility to those with poor credit, this often comes at the cost of higher interest rates. These elevated rates can burden borrowers, making their monthly payments significantly higher and the total cost of the car substantially more than its actual value. This disproportionately affects those who are already financially vulnerable, pushing them further into debt cycles.
• Ethical Concerns: From an Islamic ethical perspective, engaging in riba is not just about avoiding a sin, but about promoting economic justice and fairness. An economy built on riba is seen as prone to instability, exploitation, and inequality.

Drivetime.com Reviews & User Experiences

Online reviews for Drivetime.com are mixed, reflecting the diverse experiences of their customer base. Jrpvirtual.com Review

Many users appreciate the convenience of the online platform and the accessibility of financing, especially those who have struggled to get approved elsewhere.

However, a significant number of complaints revolve around the financing terms, vehicle quality, and post-sale support.

• Positive Feedback:

  • Accessibility for Bad Credit: Many users praise Drivetime.com for approving loans when traditional lenders have refused. This is a common theme in reviews, as it opens up car ownership to a demographic that might otherwise be excluded.
  • Online Convenience: The ability to browse inventory, apply for financing, and sometimes even arrange delivery from home is highly valued by busy consumers.
  • Customer Service: Some users report positive interactions with sales associates and customer service representatives, highlighting helpful and friendly staff.
  • Vehicle Selection: The wide range of vehicles available is often cited as a plus, allowing customers to find a car that fits their needs and budget.

• Negative Feedback:

  • High Interest Rates: This is arguably the most common complaint. Customers often find the interest rates on Drivetime.com loans to be substantially higher than those offered by traditional banks or credit unions, leading to significantly higher total costs for the vehicle. For example, a car priced at $15,000 might end up costing $25,000 or more over the life of the loan due to high interest.
  • Vehicle Quality Issues: Despite the multi-point inspection claims, some customers report receiving vehicles with undisclosed mechanical problems shortly after purchase. This leads to unexpected repair costs and frustration.
  • Aggressive Sales Tactics: Some reviews mention feeling pressured during the sales process or encountering issues with transparency regarding fees and loan terms.
  • Trade-in Valuations: A recurring complaint is that Drivetime.com offers significantly lower trade-in values for old vehicles compared to other dealerships or private sales.
  • Post-Sale Support: Issues with warranty claims, difficulties in resolving vehicle problems, and challenges in reaching customer service after the purchase are also frequently reported.

Drivetime.com Cars, Trucks, and SUVs Inventory

Drivetime.com maintains a vast and constantly updated inventory of used vehicles, covering a wide array of makes, models, and body types. Icanvas.com Review

Their selection typically includes popular sedans, versatile SUVs, and robust trucks, catering to diverse consumer needs.

• Vehicle Diversity: The website offers a wide range of used cars from economy sedans like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla to luxury brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz. They also list numerous used trucks like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado, and a broad selection of used SUVs including the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

• Filtering Options: The online platform allows users to filter their search by various criteria, including make, model, year, price range, mileage, body style, features, and even specific colors. This makes it relatively easy for customers to narrow down their choices.

• Vehicle Details: Each vehicle listing on Drivetime.com includes comprehensive details such as:

  • Multiple high-resolution photos
  • Key features and specifications
  • Mileage and vehicle history reports e.g., CarFax
  • Pricing information and estimated monthly payments
  • Details on the multi-point inspection process the vehicle has undergone.

• Vehicle Quality Concerns: While Drivetime.com states that all vehicles undergo a multi-point inspection, some customer reviews indicate dissatisfaction with the quality of vehicles received, citing mechanical issues that emerge shortly after purchase. This suggests that while inspections are performed, they may not always catch all potential problems, or the reconditioning might not be as thorough as consumers expect for a major purchase. Resupplyapp.com Review

Drivetime.com Application Process

The application process for financing through Drivetime.com is designed to be quick and user-friendly, emphasizing pre-qualification rather than a full credit application upfront.

This allows potential buyers to understand their financing options without a hard credit inquiry impacting their score immediately.

• Online Pre-qualification: The first step typically involves filling out a short online form with basic personal and financial information. This allows Drivetime.com to provide pre-qualified financing options based on a soft credit pull, which doesn’t affect the applicant’s credit score.
• Required Information: Applicants usually need to provide:
  • Personal details name, address, contact information
  • Employment information employer, income, time at job
  • Housing information rent or mortgage payments
  • Social Security Number for credit check purposes.
• Fast Approval: Drivetime.com prides itself on offering quick approval decisions, often within minutes, allowing customers to proceed with car selection almost immediately.
• Deal Finalization: Once pre-qualified and a car is selected, the customer can complete the full application, which may involve providing additional documentation proof of income, residence, etc. and a hard credit inquiry. The final terms and signing of the contract can occur online or at a physical dealership location.

Drivetime.com Legitimacy and Transparency

Assessing the legitimacy of Drivetime.com involves looking at its operational transparency, legal compliance, and how it communicates its services and terms to customers.

While Drivetime.com is a legitimate, established business, concerns often arise regarding the transparency of its financing terms, particularly the high interest rates associated with subprime loans.

• Established Business: Drivetime.com is a long-standing company with a significant market presence and a network of physical dealerships, confirming its operational legitimacy. It’s not a fly-by-night operation.
• Regulatory Compliance: As a large financial institution and car retailer, Drivetime.com operates under various state and federal regulations governing auto sales and lending. They are subject to oversight by entities like the Federal Trade Commission FTC and consumer protection agencies.
• Transparency of Terms with caveats: While Drivetime.com presents financing options clearly on its platform, the implications of high interest rates on the total cost of a vehicle may not always be fully understood by every customer. The APR Annual Percentage Rate will be disclosed as legally required, but the financial burden this places on a borrower, especially those with poor credit, needs careful consideration. Many consumers might be drawn in by the ease of approval without fully grasping the long-term financial commitment.
• BBB Rating: Drivetime.com typically maintains an accredited status and a decent letter grade e.g., A- or B+ with the Better Business Bureau, indicating responsiveness to customer complaints, even if the volume of complaints is high. This suggests they engage in efforts to resolve customer issues.
• Consumer Reviews: The mixed nature of consumer reviews, as discussed earlier, points to a gap between customer expectations and actual experiences, particularly concerning vehicle quality and the total cost of ownership. The “legitimacy” of a business isn’t solely about legal operation, but also about ethical conduct and customer satisfaction.

Alternatives to Drivetime.com: Embracing Ethical Auto Financing

Given Drivetime.com’s reliance on interest-based financing, exploring ethical alternatives is crucial for consumers, especially those who adhere to Islamic financial principles. Merchantgrowth.com Review

These alternatives focus on avoiding riba and promoting fair, equitable transactions.

• Islamic Auto Financing Institutions:

  • Concept: These institutions offer Sharia-compliant financing models, primarily Murabaha cost-plus sale or Ijarah lease-to-own. In a Murabaha contract, the financial institution buys the car and then sells it to the customer at an agreed-upon profit margin, which is repaid in installments. In Ijarah, the institution leases the car to the customer, with ownership potentially transferring at the end of the lease term.
  • Providers: Look for organizations like Guidance Residential, Ameen Housing Co-op, or specialized Islamic finance divisions within larger banks e.g., Bank of America’s Islamic Finance initiatives if available, or smaller community-focused institutions.
  • Pros: Adheres fully to Islamic principles, transparent profit margins, often provides educational resources on ethical finance.
  • Cons: Fewer options geographically, application process might be more rigorous, may require specific documentation.
  • Example: Guidance Residential though primarily for homes, some may offer auto or can advise on similar structures.

• Direct Cash Purchase:

  • Concept: Buying a vehicle outright with saved funds eliminates the need for any financing, interest, or debt.
  • Pros: Complete ownership, no monthly payments, avoids all forms of riba, potential for better negotiation on price.
  • Cons: Requires significant upfront savings, may delay car acquisition, ties up a large sum of capital.
  • Strategy: Implement a rigorous savings plan specifically for a car purchase. Utilize high-yield savings accounts or low-risk investments halal mutual funds to grow your capital.

• Lease-to-Own Programs Non-Interest:

  • Concept: While conventional leasing often involves interest, some ethical variations or agreements structured as Ijarah Islamic leasing can be permissible. This involves paying rent for the use of the vehicle, with the option to purchase it at the end of the term.
  • Considerations: Ensure the contract clearly defines the nature of payments as rent and that ownership transfer is a separate transaction or built into the lease in a Sharia-compliant way, avoiding any interest components.
  • Pros: Lower upfront costs than cash, allows for regular upgrades.
  • Cons: Not widespread in conventional markets, requires careful review of contracts to ensure Sharia compliance.

• Community-Based Lending/Qard Hasan: Glo.com Review

  • Concept: Interest-free loans Qard Hasan are encouraged in Islam. While rare for large purchases like cars, some community organizations, mosques, or benevolent individuals might offer small, interest-free loans to help members in need.
  • Pros: Purely ethical, builds community solidarity.
  • Cons: Limited availability, usually for smaller amounts, requires strong trust and repayment commitment.

• Renting/Ride-Sharing Services:

  • Concept: For those who don’t need a car daily, utilizing short-term rental services e.g., Enterprise, Hertz or ride-sharing platforms e.g., Uber, Lyft can be a cost-effective and debt-free alternative.
  • Pros: No ownership costs insurance, maintenance, depreciation, flexibility, ideal for occasional use.
  • Cons: Can become expensive for frequent use, less convenient than personal ownership for spontaneous travel.
  • Example: Turo for peer-to-peer car rental.

Choosing an alternative boils down to prioritizing ethical financial practices over immediate convenience.

While Drivetime.com simplifies the process of obtaining a car loan, its methodology clashes with the foundational principles of Islamic finance.

FAQ

How does Drivetime.com work?

Drivetime.com allows customers to browse a vast inventory of used cars online, apply for financing through their in-house lender Bridgecrest with a simple pre-qualification process, and then finalize the purchase, including options for vehicle delivery or pickup at a dealership. Urbanrevivo.com Review

Is Drivetime.com legit?

Yes, Drivetime.com is a legitimate and established used car dealership and financier with a significant national presence and physical locations.

They are a real company that buys and sells cars and offers financing.

What are the main complaints about Drivetime.com?

The main complaints about Drivetime.com typically revolve around high interest rates on their financing, issues with the quality of vehicles after purchase despite inspections, and sometimes perceived aggressive sales tactics or difficulties with post-sale customer service.

Can I get a car from Drivetime.com with bad credit?

Yes, Drivetime.com specializes in providing financing for individuals with a range of credit scores, including those with less-than-perfect or bad credit, which is one of their key selling points.

Does Drivetime.com offer a money-back guarantee?

Yes, Drivetime.com typically offers a 15-day money-back guarantee or a 1,500-mile limited warranty, allowing customers to return the vehicle if they are not satisfied, though terms and conditions apply. Petedge.com Review

What kind of cars does Drivetime.com sell?

Drivetime.com sells a wide variety of used cars, trucks, and SUVs from numerous manufacturers, ranging from economy models to more premium vehicles, generally focusing on models that are a few years old.

How long does Drivetime.com’s application process take?

The initial pre-qualification application with Drivetime.com is typically very quick, often providing a decision within minutes after submitting basic personal and financial information online.

Does Drivetime.com check my credit?

Yes, Drivetime.com performs a soft credit inquiry for the initial pre-qualification, which does not affect your credit score.

If you proceed with a full application, they will conduct a hard credit inquiry, which may temporarily impact your credit score.

Is Drivetime.com financing interest-free?

No, Drivetime.com’s financing is not interest-free. Nuuds.com Review

They offer conventional loans through their in-house lender, Bridgecrest, which charge interest, often at higher rates for customers with lower credit scores.

What are ethical alternatives to Drivetime.com for car financing?

Ethical alternatives for car financing include seeking out Islamic auto financing institutions that offer Sharia-compliant models like Murabaha or Ijarah, making a direct cash purchase after saving, or exploring community-based interest-free loans Qard Hasan where available.

Can I trade in my old car at Drivetime.com?

Yes, Drivetime.com allows customers to trade in their old vehicles towards the purchase of a new one, and they provide an online tool to get an estimated trade-in value.

Does Drivetime.com offer home delivery?

Yes, Drivetime.com offers vehicle home delivery in many areas, allowing customers to complete the purchase process and receive their car without visiting a physical dealership.

What is the average interest rate at Drivetime.com?

The average interest rate at Drivetime.com can vary widely depending on the applicant’s credit score, income, and the specific loan terms. Iconicpaw.com Review

For those with bad credit, rates can be significantly higher than prime rates, often in the double digits e.g., 15-25% APR or even higher.

How does Drivetime.com’s financing compare to traditional banks?

Drivetime.com’s financing, provided through Bridgecrest, is often more accessible to individuals with poor credit than traditional banks, which typically have stricter lending criteria.

However, this accessibility often comes with significantly higher interest rates compared to prime auto loans from conventional banks.

Where is Drivetime.com located?

Drivetime.com operates numerous physical dealerships across the United States, in addition to its online platform. Their corporate headquarters is in Tempe, Arizona.

Does Drivetime.com sell new cars?

No, Drivetime.com exclusively sells used cars, trucks, and SUVs. Crownforeverla.com Review

They do not offer new vehicles directly from manufacturers.

What kind of warranty does Drivetime.com offer?

Drivetime.com typically includes a limited warranty with their used vehicles, often covering major components for a specific period or mileage after purchase, in addition to their 15-day money-back guarantee.

Can I cancel my Drivetime.com purchase?

Yes, Drivetime.com generally offers a 15-day money-back guarantee, allowing customers to return the vehicle within that period if they are not satisfied, provided certain mileage and condition criteria are met.

How does the Drivetime.com app work?

The Drivetime.com app provides a mobile-friendly way to browse inventory, view vehicle details, get financing pre-qualifications, and manage the purchase process, mirroring the functionality of their website.

What documents do I need for Drivetime.com financing?

While the pre-qualification requires minimal information, finalizing the Drivetime.com financing will typically require proof of income pay stubs or bank statements, proof of residence, a valid driver’s license, and potentially proof of insurance. Potensic.com Review