Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Trusted Used Car Dealership in San Luis Obispo
Since 1979, McCarthy's has delivered efficient, honest, and customer-focused automotive solutions. Our reputation for exceptional service is built on over 30,000 successful transactions within San Luis Obispo County. We prioritize peace of mind through a 90-day full-coverage warranty on most vehicles and optional extended warranties up to 5 years/100,000 miles. Our inventory undergoes rigorous evaluation by ASE Certified Mechanics, ensuring quality pre-owned vehicles.With strong relationships with local and national lenders, we provide competitive financing options for all credit profiles. Our no-pressure environment and commitment to community support have earned us recognition as the #1 Used Car Dealer by New Times for 11 consecutive years. We operate from our original location at 43 Higuera St, serving the Central Coast with integrity and dedication.
Services
Used Car Sales
Vehicle Appraisal
Auto Financing
Car Consignment
Cash for Cars
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We have over 45 years of experience serving San Luis Obispo County.
- Our inventory undergoes inspection by ASE Certified Mechanics.
- We offer a 90-day full-coverage warranty on most vehicles.
- Our finance team works with all credit types through multiple lenders.
- Recognized as #1 Used Car Dealer by New Times for 11 consecutive years.
What people say
Amazing staff
Professional and flexible
Best buying experience
No pressure sales
Quick financing process
Services
Used Car Sales
McCarthy's offers a curated selection of high-quality used cars, trucks, and SUVs from trusted manufacturers like Honda, Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet. Every vehicle undergoes a detailed inspection by ASE Certified Mechanics and includes a CarFax report. Our inventory features fuel-efficient hybrids and reliable family vehicles, with pricing below Kelley Blue Book values.
Vehicle Appraisal
We provide free, no-obligation appraisals for vehicles brought to our San Luis Obispo lot. Our evaluation process takes 15-30 minutes, and offers remain valid for seven days. Payment is issued immediately upon acceptance, with no requirement to purchase a vehicle from our inventory.
Auto Financing
Our finance department offers pre-approval in minutes with competitive rates for all credit profiles. We partner with local and national lenders to provide options for customers with no credit, bad credit, or established credit histories. Financing terms range from 24 to 72 months depending on vehicle age and loan amount.
Car Consignment
McCarthy's operates the original vehicle consignment program in SLO County. We handle marketing, customer inquiries, and transaction logistics while maintaining your vehicle's value. Owners receive 85-90% of the final sale price, with no upfront fees or obligations.
Cash for Cars
Our Cash for Cars program purchases vehicles directly from owners regardless of condition. We accept cars, trucks, and SUVs from 2000 models onward, with payment issued immediately upon completion. This service includes free towing for vehicles unable to be driven to our location.
People
Jimi
Sales Associate
Jimi has been with McCarthy's for over 15 years, specializing in matching customers with vehicles that meet their budget and lifestyle needs. Known for his transparency and customer-first approach, he consistently receives top satisfaction ratings from clients.
Chris
Sales Manager
With a decade of automotive experience, Chris leads McCarthy's sales team in delivering no-pressure consultations. He focuses on building long-term customer relationships through honest communication and personalized service solutions.
Steve Snyder
Finance Specialist
Steve has worked at McCarthy's for 8 years, helping customers secure financing through his extensive network of lending partners. He specializes in credit-building solutions for first-time buyers and those rebuilding financial histories.
Questions
What warranties do you offer on used vehicles?
We provide a standard 90-day full-coverage warranty on most vehicles, with optional extended warranties available up to 5 years/100,000 miles.
Can I sell my car without buying one from you?
Yes, our vehicle buyout program operates independently of purchases. We'll make a free, no-obligation offer for your car regardless of whether you buy from us.
Do you offer financing for bad credit?
Yes, we work with multiple lenders to provide financing options for all credit profiles, including bad credit and no credit situations.
What are your business hours?
We're open Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-6pm, and Sunday 11am-4pm for vehicle sales and service.
How does your consignment program work?
Our consignment service handles marketing, customer inquiries, and transaction logistics while maintaining your vehicle's value. Owners receive 85-90% of the final sale price.
Do you provide vehicle inspections?
Yes, every vehicle in our inventory undergoes a detailed inspection by ASE Certified Mechanics, including a CarFax report for all pre-owned vehicles.
Reviews (7)
Amanda Adam
Nov 26, 2021
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My husband and I just got a Tahoe frome here, the staff Is FANTASTIC to say the least. They worked with us to get the absolutely best price and interest rate. The Staff is so amiable and understanding. I highly recommend going to McCarthy's for your next vehicle. Get your next set of keys at McCarthy's.
Bob C.
Oct 29, 2021
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They purchased a vehicle from me and was upfront about everything. Once we agreed on a fair price I had a check within 30 minutes. So glad I took the car to McCarthys rather than the hassle of selling it myself to a private party. Thanks for your honesty Chris and Sam.
Cristal Solis
Jun 16, 2021
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My cousin bought a car last month and the brakes failed and she crashed into a 5 month old and her mother while driving and now my cousin is not only getting sued, lost her car, and is in a coma. Thanks McCarthys !!!
Tony T.
May 21, 2021
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I have mixed thoughts about this place. They seem very honest and they have high prices for consignments. They do a great checkup job before they co-sign. They are on top of their stuff. They have you pay up front 195 for inspection and smog. I was inside for 3 minutes and heard a high level elderly employee talk down and demeaning to a Hispanic man that didn't speak much English. He then proceeded to make a sexist degrading comment about a woman driving in the lot. One of the other employees made a comment about how tired of his sexism they were. Wow. I like this place a lot but
Stacey Baker
May 19, 2021
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I love my new car from McCarthys! Lisa helped me test drive their incredible collection of cars. I went one day to check out their inventory which is the best on the Central Coast and got a few possible ones to buy, then came back the next day to drive them. Lisa gave me all the information and insight into the cars they had. No pressure at all but answered all my questions and help me evaluate. I sat down with her and looked at the pros and cons. She is invaluable. I am so very happy with my purchase. Cody and the rest of the crew were great too! Thank you McCarthys in San Luis Obispo! You
Stacy Korsgaden
Apr 30, 2021
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McCarthy's is easy to do business with, trustworthy and great selection of vehicles. Purchasing a car was effortless. Their staff made the transaction stress free.
Chris L.
Mar 30, 2021
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McCarthy's earns its reputation as a friendly and honest dealer. They offered a more-than-fair price for our son's truck and made the whole transaction quick and easy. They have great cars on the lot and anyone looking for a good used vehicle should keep McCarthy's at the top of their list!
