Introduction: Why Choosing the Right Used Car Dealer Matters

Buying a used car in Australia can be one of the smartest financial decisions you make—but only if you buy from a reputable source. With increasing demand for secondhand vehicles due to rising new car prices and supply chain issues, Aussies are turning to dealership chains more than ever.

But not all used car dealers are created equal. Some offer transparent vehicle history, thorough inspections, and warranties—others may sell you a lemon with dodgy paperwork.

In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we’ll explore the top used car dealership chains across Australia, what makes them stand out, and how to ensure you get the best deal with peace of mind.

1. Top Used Car Dealership Chains in Australia – 2025 Overview

1.1 Carsales Select (Powered by carsales.com.au)

• Reputation: ★★★★★

• Coverage: National

• Why Aussies Trust Them:

  • All cars are mechanically inspected

  • Vehicle history reports included

  • 7-day money-back guarantee

Carsales Select is a relatively new but rapidly growing part of Australia’s biggest online automotive marketplace. With physical partners and a digitally streamlined buying process, this service combines dealer reliability with online convenience.

Best For: Tech-savvy buyers who want peace of mind and flexible return policies.

1.2 Pickles (Pickles Auctions & PicklesGo)

• Reputation: ★★★★☆

• Coverage: National (auctions in every major city)

• Standouts:

  • Government & fleet vehicle auctions

  • Direct access to ex-lease, ex-rental cars

  • Transparent bidding process

Pickles is ideal for buyers who want a lower price entry point but don’t mind doing the due diligence themselves. Their fixed price and auction channels give flexibility depending on how much involvement you want in the process.

Best For: Savvy bargain hunters or fleet buyers.

1.3 Carma (Online-Only Dealership)

• Reputation: ★★★★☆

• Coverage: Sydney-focused with national delivery

• Highlights:

  • 100% online purchasing

  • 7-day return window

  • 1-year warranty on all cars

Carma represents the shift toward digital car buying in Australia. With fixed pricing, quality inspections, and clean interiors, it's perfect for buyers who don't want to haggle or waste weekends hopping from lot to lot.

Best For: Millennial and Gen Z buyers comfortable with e-commerce.

1.4 Eagers Automotive (Including AHG & EasyAuto123)

• Reputation: ★★★★★

• Coverage: Extensive, especially QLD, NSW, WA

• Pros:

  • Large selection of used stock

  • Trusted network of dealerships

  • Offers trade-ins, finance, servicing

Eagers is one of Australia’s largest dealer groups, owning popular branches like EasyAuto123 and partnering with brands like Toyota, Ford, and Nissan. Their sheer scale means more choice and robust after-sales support.

Best For: Buyers who want an all-in-one dealership experience.

1.5 OzCar

• Reputation: ★★★★☆

• Coverage: NSW, QLD, ACT

• Known For:

  • Large inventory

  • In-house financing

  • Extended warranties available

OzCar has earned its reputation by making it easy for everyday Aussies to get behind the wheel—especially if they need tailored finance or trade-in options. The downside? Some cars may be slightly overpriced, so negotiate.

Best For: First-time used car buyers and budget-focused families.

1.6 Suttons Group

• Reputation: ★★★★☆

• Coverage: NSW (Greater Sydney & surrounds)

• Why It Stands Out:

  • Established brand since 1943

  • Huge used car inventory

  • Strong after-sales service reputation

Suttons has built trust over decades, often known for selling ex-demo and near-new stock that is almost new without the price tag.

Best For: Buyers looking for manufacturer-backed used cars or ex-demos.

1.7 Motorama (Brisbane Focus)

• Reputation: ★★★★☆

• Coverage: Brisbane metro area

• Strengths:

  • Servicing and warranty options

  • Motorama Pre-Owned Program

  • Finance & insurance support

Motorama is great for Brisbane-based buyers who want dealer quality with personalised service, especially if you’re considering long-term servicing or warranty support.

Best For: SE QLD buyers and brand-loyal customers.

2. What Makes a Good Used Car Dealer in Australia?

When comparing used car dealership chains, here are the key elements to look for:

✅ Transparency

• Clear vehicle history reports (PPSR, accident check)

• Full-service history

• Odometer legitimacy

✅ Inspection Standards

• Reputable dealers will offer multi-point inspections by qualified mechanics.

• Some offer RWC (roadworthy certificates) by default.

✅ Warranty & Return Policies

• Top dealers offer statutory warranties (3 months or 5,000 km)

• Others go beyond with 12-month warranties, return windows, or extensions.

✅ Financing Options

• In-house financing or partnered finance services

• Clear breakdown of repayments with comparison rates

✅ Trade-In Support

• Appraisal of your old car with fair value

• Option to reduce upfront costs

✅ Digital Convenience

• Online booking, home test drive, digital contracts

3. Best Used Car Dealers by Region in 2025

New South Wales

• Suttons – Highly trusted in Sydney

• OzCar – Broad stock across Western Sydney and Central Coast

• Carma – Online buyers based in NSW benefit from fast service

Victoria

• EasyAuto123 (via Eagers Automotive)

• Pickles Auctions – Regular events in Melbourne

• Private fleets + Dealerships – Toyota, Mazda, Hyundai franchises

Queensland

• Motorama – SE QLD-focused service with great reputation

• Eagers Automotive – Strong dealer network across Brisbane and Gold Coast

• OzCar – Has expanding footprint in the state

Western Australia

• Eagers Automotive – AHG branches dominate the west coast

• Pickles – Large auctions in Perth

• Smaller dealers – like Melville Motors and Wanneroo Mazda (local reputation matters)

South Australia & ACT

• EasyAuto123 – Expanding into Adelaide

• OzCar – Also present in ACT

• Local dealers – Perform better with smaller stock but stronger service

4. What Cars Are in Demand in the Used Market (2025)?

🚗 Popular Used Car Types:

• SUVs: Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi Outlander

• Utes: Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger

• Small Cars: Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30, Mazda3

• EVs/Hybrids: Toyota Camry Hybrid, MG4 EV, Tesla Model 3 (used units now under $50K)

💡Hot Segments in 2025:

• Ex-lease hybrids

• Ex-demo SUVs

• Low-km electric cars (2021–2023 models)

• Euro diesels with full-service history

5. Should You Buy Used from a Dealer or Private Seller?

Verdict: For peace of mind and support, dealership chains are the better choice—especially for first-time or inexperienced buyers.

6. Tips to Avoid Dodgy Used Car Deals

• Always get a PPSR check to verify legal ownership and accident history

• Inspect the logbook and service stamps

• Look under the bonnet and under the car for rust, leaks, or oil build-up

• Check tyre condition, brakes, and suspension

• Ask for warranty details in writing

• Test drive in multiple conditions (city and highway)

7. Final Thoughts – Buy Smart, Drive Happy

Choosing a trusted used car dealer can mean the difference between stress-free motoring and mechanical nightmares. With rising demand for quality secondhand vehicles in 2025, large dealership chains have stepped up—offering transparent deals, solid warranties, and buyer protections that weren’t common a decade ago.

Whether you’re buying your first car, downsizing to something fuel-efficient, or jumping into a hybrid or EV for the first time, these dealership chains have proven themselves worthy of your trust.

Ready to browse Australia’s best used cars?
Start your search at reliable dealers like Eagers, Pickles, Suttons, or Carma, and don’t forget to check inspection reports, warranty terms, and financing options before signing that dotted line.