Zen Car Buying vs. CarMax & Carvana
Any Car, Anywhere
Don't get boxed into one dealer's lot or online marketplace. We source the best used car for you nationwide.
- We can access used cars anywhere in the US
- Data driven market analysis so you know the marketplace going in
- Get the best deal on your used car purchase, not fixed pricing
- No pressure, we shield you from the dealer
Where We Win
Why Smart Used Car Buyers Skip The Big Lots
Nationwide Search vs. Their Lot
Your Advocate vs. Their Salesperson
Negotiated Deals vs. No-Haggle Sticker
Personalized strategy vs. transaction focused
Thinking About A Used Car? Talk To Us First.
15 minutes with our car buying experts could save you thousands versus buying from CarMax or Carvana. Ready for us to search and negotiate for you? See our used car broker service.
Side-By-Side
How We Stack Up
A personal advocate versus the big used-car retailers.
| Feature | Zen Car Buying | CarMax | Carvana |
|---|---|---|---|
| Negotiates price, fees, trade-in & financing | No-haggle, fixed price | No-haggle, fixed price | |
| Transparent, market-based pricing | Often above market | Often above market | |
| Direct access to a real human expert | Our car buying advocates | Sales associate | Call center |
| Works on your behalf (not the dealer's) | |||
| Avoid finance & insurance upsells |
Why Buyers Choose Zen Over The Big Lots
We Work For You
CarMax and Carvana are dealers — they profit from selling their inventory at their price. Zen Car Buying is your independent advocate, focused only on what's best for you.
Any Car, Anywhere
Don't get boxed into one dealer's lot or online marketplace. We source the best used car for you nationwide.
Market Analysis
We have access to the tools to truly understand market pricing to find you the best car at the best price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CarMax, Carvana and Zen Car Buying?
CarMax and Carvana are used car sellers—they make money by selling you a vehicle from their inventory. Zen Car Buying is a car buying service that works for you, helping you find, evaluate and negotiate the right new or used car from any source nationwide.
Does Zen Car Buying Have Inventory?
No. Our software searches dealer listings nationwide to find high quality used cars, trucks or SUVs at the best price.
Can Zen Car Buying help me save money compared to CarMax or Carvana?
Often, yes. CarMax and Carvana offer fixed pricing. Zen Car Buying helps you avoid overpaying which can lead to meaningful savings on a similar used car.
Who should use Zen Car Buying?
Buyers who want the best possible used car not just what's on the local lot. Plus we negotiate every deal ensuring you avoid mistakes and deliver a stress-free experience.
Can Zen Car Buying Help with my trade in?
Yes, we have strategies to maximize value of your trade.
Ready To Buy A Car The Smart Way?
Talk to our advocates and find out how much you can save versus going it alone at CarMax or Carvana.