If you’re searching for the best used car dealerships in the Inland Empire, you’re not alone. With a growing population and increasing demand for affordable vehicles, the Inland Empire — which includes cities like Riverside, San Bernardino, Ontario, and Fontana — has become a hotspot for used car shoppers. But not all dealerships are created equal.
🔍 WHY TRUST MATTERS
Buying a used vehicle is a major decision, and the dealership you choose can make or break your experience. A trusted dealership ensures:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees or high-pressure tactics
- Thorough vehicle inspections and clean title assurances
- Flexible financing options, including support for poor or no credit
- Strong after-sale service such as warranties, CarFax reports, and trade-in support
- Consistent positive reviews and a solid reputation in the local community
Let’s explore the top-rated options that meet — and often exceed — those expectations.
MORE: It’s Not Just the Right Dealership — It Also Has to Be the Right Time.
🏆 TOP RATED USED CAR DEALERSHIPS
These dealerships were selected based on a combination of Google reviews, customer satisfaction ratings, variety of inventory, and industry reputation.
1. California Motors Direct (Fontana)
📍 Locations: 15836 Valley Blvd, Fontana, CA 92335
⭐ Google Rating: 4.3
🌐 Website: fontanamotorsdirect.com
Why They’re Top-Rated:
California Motors Direct has earned its reputation as one of the most trusted used car dealerships in Southern California. With a massive selection of certified pre-owned vehicles and hundreds of high-demand models at competitive prices across multiple locations, they offer everything from affordable sedans and SUVs to premium luxury models. Their no-pressure sales environment and strong in-house financing options make them a top choice for car shoppers in the Inland Empire.
They’re also known for helping customers with credit challenges, offering $0 down financing and flexible loan terms through their strong lender network.
What They Offer:
- Inventory updated daily with options for all budgets
- Clean title guarantees and free CarFax reports
- In-house financing team to support all credit types
- Bilingual sales team (English/Spanish)
- Fast approvals — many buyers drive off the same day
Best For: Buyers who want wide selection, quick approvals, and flexible pricing without hidden fees.
2. Pacific Auto Center (Fontana)
📍 Locations: 16416 Valley Blvd, Fontana, CA 92335
⭐ Google Rating: 4.5
🌐 Website: pacificautocenter.com
Why They’re Top-Rated:
Pacific Auto Center is one of the largest independent used car dealers in California, and their Fontana location is a magnet for buyers across the state. What sets them apart is their unmatched inventory size, especially in categories like diesel trucks, commercial vans, lifted pickups, and utility vehicles.
Beyond variety, Pacific Auto Center is praised for their efficient sales process, transparent financing terms, and attention to reconditioning and detail. Whether you’re a contractor, commuter, or family shopper, you’ll likely find what you’re looking for here.
What They Offer:
- Inventory of 1,000+ used vehicles across all segments
- Specializes in trucks, lifted vehicles, and commercial-use models
- Pre-approval and loan applications available online
- 3-day return policy for added peace of mind
- Optional protection plans and GAP coverage
Best for: Shoppers needing heavy-duty trucks, commercial vehicles, or those who want a massive inventory to choose from in one place.
3. West Coast Auto Sales (Montclair)
📍 Locations: 5180 Holt Blvd, Montclair, CA 91763
⭐ Google Rating: 4.4
🌐 Website: westcoastauto.com
Why They’re Top-Rated:
West Coast Auto Sales offers a refined and customer-first approach to the used car buying experience. Unlike high-volume lots that focus on speed and numbers, this dealership prioritizes vehicle quality, condition, and presentation.
Their indoor showroom, well-maintained cars, and clear documentation make this a favorite for shoppers looking for a boutique dealership experience. They also specialize in clean-title, low-mileage vehicles with strong resale value.
What They Offer:
- Carefully curated inventory — not just any car makes the lot
- Indoor showroom for comfortable viewing
- CarFax certified vehicles only
- White-glove sales experience with no pressure
- Multiple warranty and protection plan options
Best for: Buyers seeking premium-quality used vehicles in a comfortable, professional environment with personalized service.
4. Riverside Auto Market
📍 Locations: 18820 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92508
⭐ Google Rating: 4.7
🌐 Website: riversideautomarket
Why They’re Top-Rated:
Riverside Auto Market has earned a reputation as one of the Inland Empire’s most honest and community-driven dealerships. While they may not have the massive size of some competitors, they make up for it with exceptional customer care, honest pricing, and quick, no-nonsense approvals.
Customers frequently mention how easy the process is and how transparent the staff is about pricing and loan terms. Their focus on local buyers, credit-friendly financing, and clean vehicles makes them a smart, low-stress choice.
What They Offer:
- Clean inventory, safety-checked and verified
- Trusted by Riverside locals for no-hassle buying
- Ideal for first-time buyers or credit-rebuilding shoppers
- Online approval and payment calculators
- Straightforward, small-team experience
Best for: Anyone who wants a simple, fast, and fair deal — especially those who are new to financing or want a more human, less corporate car-buying process.
5. STG Auto Group (Montclair)
📍 Locations: 10477 Central Ave, Montclair, CA 91763
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6
🌐 Website: stgautogroup.com
Why They’re Top-Rated:
With multiple locations in SoCal, STG Auto Group has become a staple in the pre-owned car market — and their Montclair location is a standout for Inland Empire shoppers. STG specializes in late-model vehicles, including luxury, imports, and performance cars like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Tesla.
Their upscale showroom, no-haggle pricing, and certified pre-owned (CPO) inventory offer a dealership experience that feels closer to new-car retail — without the sticker shock.
What They Offer:
- Massive multi-brand inventory including high-end and fuel-efficient models
- In-house financing, with options for low/no credit buyers
- Trade-in assistance and instant cash offers
- Extended warranty packages and vehicle protection plans
- Indoor showroom with clean, modern facilities
Best for: Drivers seeking premium used cars in excellent condition, with full financing support and dealership-level service.
💡 TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT USED CAR DEALERSHIP
Even with a list of top-rated dealers, here are a few things to keep in mind before making your final decision:
✅ Read Reviews Carefully
Read the actual review comments. A 4.5-star dealer with hundreds of recent reviews is more trustworthy than a 5.0 with only 10 reviews. Look for patterns in feedback. Are people mentioning excellent customer service? Are there complaints about hidden fees?
✅ Check Vehicle History Reports
A reputable dealer will offer free CarFax or AutoCheck reports. Always verify the title, accident history, and maintenance records.
✅ Understand Your Financing Options
Compare dealer financing with your own bank or credit union. Some dealerships offer special programs for first-time buyers or those with less-than-perfect credit.
✅ Test Drive Multiple Vehicles
Don’t settle on the first car you see. Try several models and trims to get a feel for what suits your needs and driving style. Drive the car on local streets and the freeway. Listen for unusual noises, test the brakes, and check features like the A/C, lights, and infotainment system.
✅ Ask About Return Policies or Warranties
Some top-rated dealerships offer short-term return policies or extended warranties — a sign they stand behind their vehicles.
MORE: Explore More Tips on Buying a Used Car
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The Inland Empire offers plenty of options when it comes to used car dealerships — but only a few rise to the top. By choosing from this list of top-rated dealerships, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother, safer, and more satisfying car-buying experience.
Whether you’re buying your first car or upgrading to something newer, remember: it’s not just about the car — it’s about who you buy it from.