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Greater Tyler TX Auto Auction

June 17th, 2010

image1455715116.jpgThere are quite a number of businesses and or events that serve as cultural staples in our area. Some of those are educational, like the Historical Aviation Memorial Museum or the Hudnall Planetarium, others entertain but are really national draws like the Tyler Rose Garden, and still others, simply serve a function like the Greater Tyler Auto Auction (GTAA). While it’s not the kind of event one might want out of town guests to experience for dinner and cocktails, it is definitely full of local color.

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When I first visited the GTAA I felt like I was observing a cultural ritual that had been taking place in this society since it’s inception. Oh sure the modes of transportation to be auctioned off are no longer of the four legged variety, but I’m fairly certain none the less, that had I been around a hundred and fifty years ago, and I needed a horse I could have found a local institution that sold repossessed quarter horses, or if I was in a financial crunch, maybe a used mule.

The Greater Tyler Auto Auction sells cars for area banks, title loan companies, and other forms of repossession. For the buyer, almost any kind of automobile can be found, often at very low prices. Sometimes the vehicles require some rudimentary repair that does little to take from the value of the vehicle but is easily repaired. Local pre-owned car dealers often shop the auction as a method of restocking their inventory. To make any purchases buyers must be a licensed motor vehicle dealer and be registered with the GTAA (forms are available on line). Individuals are welcome to attend but must work through a licensed dealer to do any bidding or make any purchases.

The auction is held every Tuesday night beginning at five. The staff operates four lanes which allows them to keep the sales going, and the flow of inventory moving. They also have a video auction beginning at five thirty, for “in-operative” vehicles. The Greater Tyler Auto Auction is located at 11654 on Highway 64 West in Tyler, Texas. For more information, visit their website at www.greatertyleraa.com. To reach their offices, call (903)597-2800, or email them at greatertylerautoauction@yahoo.com.

Firestation Auto Center

January 1st, 2010

Firestation Auto Center is quickly becoming one of the best used car dealers in Tyler Texas. Located off the corner of Vine and Glenwood, it is a drive from the other quality used car dealers found mostly on the loop. Located on the spot of the old Tyler fire house, Firestation has a distinct Tyler feel to it, allowing a pleasant experience. I went by during my search for a car not long ago and left feeling that although they didn’t have the car I was looking for, they treated me unlike any other dealer I visited and when my car finally bites the dust Firestation will be the first place I visit.

One thing that always bothers me with the search for a new car is the ferocity with which the salesmen approach me. There’s nothing like the feeling you get when you drive into a parking lot and are pressured to make a huge purchase on a moments notice. Like a zebra being preyed on by drueling hyenas. At Firestation this can not be further from the case. At Firestation I wasn’t approached until I looked around for someone to ask about the car.

The salesmen were experts on every car on the lot and were never too pushy. Allowing me to enjoy looking at the cars without being asked if I’m going to buy it before I even see the inside.
Firestation only selects 40 to 50 cars due to the size of the lot so there is a chance you won’t find what you are looking for. The prices are as decent as the other used car lots in Tyler and unlike most of the other dealers, Firestation offers some sort of warranty on the majority of their vehicles. Although most of the warranties last around six months, it is a step up from the “as-is” status at most used car dealers.

Firestation is under new ownership, but little has changed in how the dealership has operated. The service is still top of the line and since they have stayed with the idea of only selecting a few vehicles, the quality of the vehicles is great for used vehicles, having few to no vehicles with high mileage on them.

Twenty five years of service says that Firestation is one of the highest caliber dealers in the east texas area. Every time I drive by the dealer I can’t help slowing down and checking out their newest cars on the lot and since some of the cars have posted prices it keeps the bartering mainly out, allowing everyone the same purchasing opportunities.

The down side to this dealer is that the financing of their vehicles is somewhat limited. If you have financing lined up I’d recommend checking out Firestation auto center the next time you are in the market for a new car. Since Firestation does have a website allowing you to view a large selection of the cars in their inventory, you can car shop without leaving the house if you so choose to.