Your go-to source for smart car-buying advice, ownership tips, and real-world insights to help you make confident decisions at every stage.

September 10, 2025

Car Shopping, Why Mats?

🚗 Why Online Car Prices Aren’t What They Seem

Most of the time, the “deal” you see isn’t the real deal. The low price is just bait to get you in the door. And if the price is real? Chances are, the car has hidden issues like poor condition, a salvage title, or even being imported from Canada — things buyers rarely know upfront.

September 3, 2025

Why do MATS prices appear higher than what I’m seeing online?

When you’re shopping for a used car, it’s easy to get caught up in comparing price tags. A lower price can feel like a win, like you’ve scored “the deal.” But let’s pause and talk about why MATS vehicles are sometimes priced higher upfront, and why that’s actually in your best interest.

August 12, 2025

Thinking About Trading In Your Vehicle? Here’s Why MATS Makes It Easy

At MATS, we love a trade-in! In fact, if you’re ready for a new ride, trading in your current vehicle with us can be one of the easiest steps you’ll take in the whole process.

August 8, 2025

MATS quiz

Buckle up and take our quiz!

Take this fun quiz to find out which fictional car best describes your personality!

carfax

July 20, 2025

Car Shopping

Why a “Clean Carfax” Doesn’t Necessarily Mean It’s a Good Car

When it comes to buying a used car, many folks treat a Carfax report like the ultimate stamp of approval. However, the importance people place on a good Carfax is massively overrated.

cheap motel

June 24, 2025

Car Shopping

Why Booking a Cheap Hotel is Like Buying a Used Car Online (And Why That’s a Problem)

Imagine you’re planning a beach getaway to Gulf Shores, AL. You find a hotel online for just $19 a night and proudly show your spouse the “deal of the century.” What are their first questions? “What’s the AAA star rating? Is it even clean?!”

June 10, 2025

Car Shopping, MATS 101

Car Market Chaos: Here’s How to Find the Right Vehicle

If there’s one question we’ve been getting over the past few years,  it is, “what in the world is going on in the used car business”?

May 28, 2025

Car Shopping

What do the process of buying a home & buying a vehicle have in common?

Shopping for a pre‑owned car and hunting for a home might feel like very different adventures, but they are more alike than you may think!

April 2, 2025

Car Shopping

The Hidden Pitfalls of Online Car Listings: What You Need to Know

In today’s digital world, shopping for a car online has never been easier. With just a few clicks, you can browse thousands of listings, compare prices, and even get an idea of which vehicles might be the best deals.

February 4, 2025

Car Shopping

Good Deal vs. Fair Deal

One of the most common phrases we hear from car buyers is, “I’m looking for a good deal.” It makes sense—no one wants to overpay for a vehicle. But here’s the reality: you won’t find a car that’s above-average in quality for a below-average price. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.