For some, buying a car can be an overwhelming decision. Not only is this one of the most significant purchases you'll make, but you want to make sure that you're buying something that will last for years, if not decades.
If you live in Birmingham, Alabama, there are tons of car dealerships to choose from, which may or may not help your situation. However, to ensure that you can make an informed decision, we will break down the various types of dealerships available within the city. Here's what you need to know.
Used Car Dealerships in Birmingham, AL
Because a new car can be so expensive, many drivers opt for a used vehicle instead. Thankfully, because there are so many cars on the road at any given time, used car dealerships are plentiful.
One notable element of used car dealerships is that they can sell a wide array of different makes and models. Although you can buy a used vehicle from a branded dealership (i.e., Toyota), these lots are not specific to one brand. So, you can browse through dozens of options to find the right car for your needs and budget.
Another point to consider with used car dealerships is that they can vary significantly regarding reputation and reliability. Because these cars are bought from individuals, they may or may not need a lot of work done.
To help alleviate this concern, you can shop at a national used car company like DriveTime or Carmax, both in Birmingham. Because these brands inspect every vehicle, you can feel confident that you're getting a good deal.
Luxury Car Dealerships
On the opposite end of the spectrum is a luxury car dealership. Instead of trying to save money by buying a used vehicle, you can drive a pristine high-end machine.
When it comes to luxury new car dealerships in Birmingham, you can either work with a branded company or a used vehicle lot. There are also several brokerages, which can help you find motivated sellers directly. Luxury brokers can be helpful if you want to avoid a high markup, but there is the risk of getting a car that needs a lot of work.
If you want to buy new, Birmingham has all of the top luxury brands, including Maserati, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and others. Because luxury cars are not in as high demand as used vehicles, all of these dealerships are clustered together. If you're unsure which one you'd prefer, you can see them all in one day. Fittingly, they are all located next to the Pine Tree Country Club off of Highway 459.
Car Dealerships in Birmingham Area
Because Birmingham is such a big city, it has more than enough car dealerships to suit your needs. However, because smaller districts might have better deals or harder to find vehicles, sometimes it is better to venture further out.
Nearby areas where you can find clusters of car dealerships include Jasper, Tuscaloosa, and Rainbow City. Talladega also has a few dealerships, although you can find several on your way there if you travel through Harpersville.
Inside the city, there are two primary auto malls where dealerships like to congregate. They are both on the Southwestern side of Birmingham, and the first is along 5th avenue, by highway 65. This auto mall has all of the major brands, including Chevy, Toyota, and Honda. The second cluster is around 4th avenue and highway 280.
This grouping focuses more on European and Asian brands. You can also find many brokers and mechanics here.
Car Dealership Brands
Sometimes, the best way to shop for a new (or used) car is to compare brands. Birmingham has all the car dealers you could want, from reliable family cars to high-end sports cars. Here is a rundown of the various brands you can find and what makes them so unique.
Luxury Brands
- BMW - These vehicles have incredible resale value and will last a lifetime with minimal upkeep required. This dealership is in the northern cluster by Pine Tree Country Club
- Infiniti - While not as flashy or well-known as other luxury brands, Infiniti holds its own when it comes to quality and longevity. There is only one Infiniti dealership in Birmingham, on the south side next to highways 31 and 459.
- Lexus - Because Toyota owns this brand, it is considered more affordable than other luxury models. Nonetheless, the comfort and class found in these vehicles are exquisite. This dealership is located next to BMW.
- Mercedes - This German brand has been synonymous with luxury for decades. As with BMW, these cars last a lifetime and hold their value far longer than others. You can find Mercedes either next to the Pine Tree Country Club or the Infiniti dealership on the south end of town.
Domestic and Foreign Brands
- Chevrolet - As their ads say, these vehicles are "like a rock." Chevy is well-known for making high-quality pickup trucks and SUVs. Because Chevy is a popular brand, there are many different outlets within the city.
- Dodge - As with Chevy, Dodge has made a name for itself in the truck and SUV category. Because the same company owns this brand as Jeep, you can find these vehicles together when shopping.
- Ford -The quintessential American automaker. Although Ford is now owned by a foreign company, it maintains a commitment to excellence. Ford is known for pickups, but it has been making significant strides in the mid-size car category as well.
- Honda - Two brands are synonymous with affordability and reliability, which is why they are always so highly ranked by consumers. Honda is the first of the two, and you can be sure that your Honda vehicle will last for decades.
- Suzuki - Although this brand does make cars, it is more well-known for off-roading vehicles, such as ATVs, motorcycles, and dirt bikes. If you're interested in buying some high-end trail toys, Suzuki is the place.
- Toyota - Here is the second brand we mentioned above. Toyota is one of the biggest names in compact and mid-size cars, making it one of the world's largest brands. There are many Toyota dealerships in and around Birmingham.
Buying a Car in Birmingham Has Never Been Easier
Shopping around at Birmingham, AL car dealerships can be fun and exciting if you know what to expect. Now that you're familiar with all of the different options, you can make the right decision for your budget and your driving needs.