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    Call or Text Mike Love
    By Appointment Only(757) 560-4252
    Fax (757) 277-7320
    mike@tmauto.com
  • T M Auto Wholesalers, LLC, Auto Dealers Used Cars & Trucks, Chesapeake, VA

    • easy car buying experience

    Five Stars and Two Thumbs Up

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    TM Auto & Customer Ratings

    User ratings have become a cornerstone of the American, and even the global, marketplace. I myself check the user ratings and reviews of any business that I’m considering becoming a patron of to ensure they’re the right fit for me.
    I’m proud to count TM Auto among the proud few who can boast a 5 star rating on Google. Your question as a customer — how exactly do I keep my top tier rating?

     

    Quality Inventory

    My inventory is varied and constantly changing. Whether you’re looking for a pickup truck, an SUV or a convertible, the chances are that if I don’t have it in stock, I’ll have it soon! When you do select your new-to-you vehicle, you don’t have to worry about its mysterious past. All of the cars and trucks in my inventory have Carfax Vehicle History Reports available to you!

     

    Customer Service

    TM Auto is a one-man labor of love. I’ve been buying and selling used cars throughout Hampton Roads and surrounding areas since 2006. I pride myself on giving each customer the personal, individualized service they deserve. Not all of my customers have the best credit when they come to TM Auto, but everyone leaves here happy! With my Absolute Credit Approval, all of my customers get the financing they need.

     

    User-friendly Website

    My five-star Google success starts with my website! It’s easy to use, well organized, and full of helpful content; I see my website as the icing on an already delicious cake. My inventory displays pictures, provides descriptions, and offers a Carfax report for each vehicle. Reviews from previous customers give new customers an inside look at TM Auto. My blog covers everything from my company’s history to what kind of car is best for winter, to advice on building credit. You can even use my “Absolute Credit Approval” page to submit your credit application!

     

    Easy Car Buying Experience

    Car shopping can be intimidating, but having a dealership you can trust takes a good chunk of the anxiety and worry out of the process! Your car dealer should work hard to make your car buying experience enjoyable and fulfilling. Customer service begins the moment you start your search online and should continue for as long as you own your car. This relationship is what customers’ value most. It provides TM Auto patrons with peace of mind from start to finish, guarantees customer satisfaction, and ensures five stars on Google. Please browse my website and the TM Auto Inventory. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, I can find it for you!

    I’m always available to answer your questions, feel free to text or call (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love.

    Spring & Summer Vehicles

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    What Car is Best for Your Next Adventure?

    When it comes to spring and summer travel, it’s all about fun. The question then becomes what type of travel is fun for you. Sitting high above the road, truck bed full of tents and fishing poles? A Jeep, rough and ready for adventure or something a little bit bigger, with plenty of room for your kids, friends, snacks, and whatever else your spring and summer road trips require?

     

    Trucks

    Windows down and radio up, a pickup truck is every outdoors-man’s best friend. Whether you’re hauling camping gear or an arsenal of tools for summer renovations, this vehicle offers all the space and power you need. The two pick-ups in my inventory are ready to help you tackle your next project and, when the job is finished, carry you to the lake to relax.

    2005 Toyota Tundra

    2008 Ford F 150

     

    Jeeps

    Maybe you’re looking for something with more of an edge? Adventure and Jeeps go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re trekking down the beaches of Carova and Oregon Inlet, flying down a highway or jumping and jostling across muddy hills, a Jeep with the top down can make any driver excited. I currently have two beautiful Wranglers in stock just itching to get some mud on their tires.

    2007 Jeep Wrangler

    2010 Jeep Wrangler

     

    SUVs

    For those looking to go on an adventure with their buds, an SUV is the perfect choice. With plenty of space for friends, family, and even four-legged compadres, SUVs are spacious enough for a family trip to the beach or a friendly road trip down the coast. With six different SUVs in stock, I have plenty of options!

     

    Whether you’re looking for style or space, TM Auto Wholesalers specializes in “The stress free car buying experience” with Guaranteed Credit Approval. A purchase from my inventory can help you establish or repair your credit while saving you cash for spring and summer fun! Feel free to contact me online at mike@tmautova.com, or by phone or text at 757-560-4252. Ask for Mike Love. Here’s to your next great adventure!

     

    It’s more than a car…

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    For some drivers, a car is simply a way to transport them and their stuff from point A to B. For car lovers… it’s our gleaming, high speed, exoskeleton rocketing us and our families safely through all types of weather to any destination on earth. It’s a classic statement of who we are and the lifestyle we lead. It’s our adventurous side, our badge of expression, our brand. Is it possible that our cars give us an emotional boost when we need it? Absolutely; test-drive your dream car the next time you’re feeling uninspired and brace for euphoria! Sure, we apply a bit of logic to our car search as mature shoppers, but deep down, we want a ride that says… look at me.

     

     

    It’s much more fun to start your search with emotion and forget rationale; practicality stifles our imagination! The perfect car is a great place to begin and then fine-tune your choices with practicality.

     

    What Body Style Do I Want?

    Coupe/Convertible: Convertibles are typically the most expressive and impressive designs. If practicality isn’t on your list… go topless. My inventory has a wide variety including convertibles!

    Sedan: If there are kids in the picture or in the near future, four doors are a likely requirement. Climbing into and out of the back seat for the little ones is tough with just two doors.

    Hatchback: SUV-like space without the fuel-economy compromise of heavier vehicles. As manufacturers get increasingly creative and design more stylish hatchbacks, these are worth a closer look.

    Station Wagon: Some have more passenger /cargo room and even better fuel economy than SUVs! They offer the best attributes of a car without the trade-offs of larger SUVs and crossovers.

    SUV/Crossover: The higher seating position of a crossover or SUV is something many people enjoy, for its increased visibility and for the ease of entry and exit as the seat is at a more natural height. More ground clearance than a hatchback or station wagon, but the fuel-economy penalty could be a deal breaker.

    Minivan: There is no vehicle better suited to accommodate six, seven, or eight passengers. A minivan is the perfect family vehicle and offers comfort for all. Check out the Honda Odyssey for its driving enjoyment and style.

     

    How Much Power Do I Want?

    There is an adventurous pleasure for many of us in hearing the thunder of a large engine and feeling its torque when accelerating. However, the truth is, trucks that tow and haul heavy loads are the real example of power requirement. The average car buyer doesn’t need it. Give it some real thought before going either way.

     

    What Size Car Do I Want?

    If big interior space is what you want and towing is a priority, buy big! The more practical approach… start small and work up. Small cars tend to have smaller price tags and consume less fuel. Larger vehicles make you feel safer but lighter cars are typically more agile and give you a better chance of steering away from a crash. They often have a shorter stopping distance, which may even keep you completely out of the mix. Some smaller cars even have about the same headroom as full size luxury automobiles.

     

    What about Hybrids and Diesels?

    Either approach will extend your fuel dollar, but at a premium purchase price. You may have to drive 60,000 or 100,000 miles to recoup your costs. The type of driving you do determines whether a hybrid or a diesel makes sense for you. Hybrids tend to use less fuel around town, when low speeds and frequent braking keep them running on battery power longer. Diesel drivers will see their greatest benefits on the highway and diesel vehicles are more efficient than gasoline cars at low speeds. The fuel benefits of diesel may be attractive but can change as quickly as fuel prices.

     

    Whether it’s a classic collectible, an adventure mobile or a declaration of efficiency and modesty, it’s you. Car shopping is for dreamers, have fun with it! Check my inventory and please browse my new website for more helpful blog articles!  I’m always available to answer your questions, feel free text or call (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love.

     

    Source: Gall, Jared. “Whats the right new vehicle for me.” car and driver. Hearst Communications, March, 2009. Web. 4, 2,2017 . <URL>.

    The Big Gift

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    THE BIG GIFT!

    Is this the year? You know… for your teen’s BIG GIFT! That long awaited iconic symbol of freedom, sovereignty, and coolness. The singular most important possession that let’s everyone, everywhere know with absolute certainty, “I’m officially grown up.” This gift of all gifts represents the next chapter in your child’s life as well as your trust in them. It is the time-honored ticket to ride, their first car!

    Like all astute parents and shoppers, you have questions… lots of questions. At the top of the list may be whether to buy new, used, or to pass down the family car. Well, rest assured that new, used, big or small, it’s going to be a hit. Your decision ultimately comes down to what makes the most sense.

    The obvious choice is simply to pass down the family car. It’s often paid for and thoroughly road tested. When it comes to repairs and safety, nothing provides more peace of mind than knowing your car’s service record. It’s also likely to generate lower insurance premiums. There are plenty of good reasons to pass down the family car however; there are some “Not so good reasons” too. It’s a good idea to consider modern safety features such as side-curtain airbags, blind-spot indicators, backup cameras, and forward- and rear- collision alerts which are all good for new drivers. Passing down the family car makes sense as long as it’s safe and reliable.

    New cars are also a strong consideration. The most up-to-date safety features and technology often come standard. Those with a good reliability record will need few or no repairs for at least the first three years of ownership. This means peace of mind, less headaches, and little or no maintenance costs. A new car is an easy sell as long as cost is not high on your list of concerns.  

    Used cars are also a great choice. Affordable (not cheap) used automobiles are often the best way to go for teens and parents shopping for a starter vehicle. Buying the newest used car possible will likely get you the most up-to-date safety features available for your money. This is very important for novice drivers. By adding a few dollars for a good reliability record, you’ll have less repair costs and greater peace of mind. Check the CARFAX before buying to see it’s history. Small sedans and hatchbacks from mainstream brands, or even better, midsized sedans are great choices for fuel economy and lower insurance premiums.

    This opportunity comes but once in a lifetime folks. Buy smart, enjoy the moment, and have a wonderful holiday! Find more articles on ASK MIKE’S blog here at www.tmautova.com and please share! Feel free to call or text (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love. I’ll be happy to answer your questions and assist you with purchasing your next car, truck, or SUV.

    Is your car ready for the Holidays?

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    winter-driving-tm-auto

    Around this time each year, I begin to wonder… Should we drive or fly? Let me see, a thirteen hour drive or airfare for five? Road trip wins again! We all know that November 25th is historically the busiest day for Thanksgiving travel, and yet there we are with thousands of other families making the annual trek. It’s crazy, stressful, exhausting, and a wonderful American tradition that has forged family ties for generations. I love it, but don’t tell my kids; my grumpy dad reputation would be ruined!

    Whether it’s an epic journey or a short jaunt, it’s important to prepare your vehicle for holiday traveling. Your car has just endured a summer’s worth of beach trips, sporting events, and taxiing everyone everywhere! For your car’s sake as well as your families, don’t risk it – winterize it! The basics will ensure safe passage through stormy weather, traffic jams, freezing temps, snow, equipment failure, and the unexpected. Most of the items on your winterizing checklist are DIY, minus a couple that I’d leave to the pros.

    Battery: Have mechanic run a battery load test to make sure your battery will go the distance. In extreme cold, a fully charged battery has just half its rated amp-hour capacity.

    Windshield: Change your wiper blades, fill the windshield washer reservoir with a lower freezing temperature washer fluid, and I suggest applying rain-x to your windshield for the best possible visibility. You may even want to tighten up that shine before cold weather sets in. Check out AutoDeets for spot removers! 

    Tires: Have your tires professionally checked if the tread depth is less than 3/16 inch. Your tire’s air pressure drops an estimated 6psi from summer to winter so properly inflate them to ensure best possible traction (see your owner’s manual). If snow is in the plan, consider swapping your tires out with snow tires for the trip.  

    Fluids: Have your oil and filter changed. Cold thickens your oil so a lower viscosity rated oil may be a good idea (See your owner’s manual). Check all fluids to ensure they are at the correct levels and there are no leaks. Now is also the time to check your 4WD to ensure it’s operating properly. Slippery roads, mud, or snow may call for heavy-duty traction!

    Antifreeze: Your car’s radiator should contain a 50/50 antifreeze and water mix. I recommend purchasing an antifreeze tester from your local parts supply. A simple test will confirm that your car’s antifreeze is suitable for winter temperatures.

    Belts & Hoses: They can weaken with cold weather. Check them for any signs of wear and tear and if in doubt, have them changed.

    Emergencies: I suggest a first aid kit, tool bag with basic tools for making minor repairs, portable charger for cell phones and other accessories, warm clothing for everyone, and plenty of bottled and backup munchies.  

    So maybe you fly, maybe you drive… Either way, hope for the best, prepare for the worst this holiday season by completing a smart checklist before heading out. Text or call (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love. I’m always happy to answer your questions and assist you in finding the vehicle you want. Safe travels!

    Is it time to buy a truck?

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    tm-auto-buy-a-truck

    Whether you’re a truck owner or have never owned a truck or SUV, it’s a smart time of year to consider the possibilities. Spring has sprung and so have home improvements, repairs, and lawn & garden projects. You’re probably going to need a few items from the local home supply, like plywood, paint, grass seed, and maybe even mulch? If you’ve planned on diving into some exciting projects this Spring then your truck or SUV will come in real handy! On the other hand, if you’re not a truck owner, this can be a real inconvenience. Used trucks and SUV’s hold their value and make sense as back up transportation and activity vehicles. Even better, high mileage trucks are often just getting broken in, so finding a deal could be in your future. New trucks and SUV’s are often out of our budget’s reach, but used with higher miles may fit nicely. I’ve listed some of my picks to help you get started but there are more than a few used gems out there to choose from!

    • This is Ford country and since the ford F-150 has been the #1 selling truck in the US for over 30 years it’s no surprise that it’s one of my top picks. Variety, hi tech features, and dependability are all winners when it comes to the Ford.
    • The Ram 1500 offers toughness with its Hemi V8 and 5-ton towing package. It’s rear suspension offers a surprisingly smooth ride in spite of its hefty features.
    • For travel and comfort the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra has a smooth ride and lower wind and road-noise. Chevy is also the only truck that offers OnStar.
    • The compact Toyota Tacoma packs a punch with its six-cylinder engines and are also available with four-cylinders for better fuel economy. Most models are available with four-wheel drive and offer regular, extended, and crew cab versions.

    For best results, focus your search between 2001 and 2012 models. They’re affordable and comparably reliable. Remember, used trucks require less maintenance and offer more safety features than when your parents owned them so you don’t have to sacrifice dependability and security to save money. I’m continuously updating my inventory of used trucks and SUV’s to offer the widest variety possible to my customers so feel free to give me a call. Good hunting!

    Posted 03/15/2016 in TM AUTO UPDATE

    Used Vehicles, Used Car, Used Cars, Used Trucks, Dependable Cars, Pre owned cars, Used SUV,

    December Deals! It’s the best time to buy

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    december-deals

    IT’S THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR FOR A DEAL!

    Our philosophy at TM Auto is to finance the vehicle of your choice regardless of your credit score! You can even improve your credit when buying a used car, truck, or SUV from TM Auto Wholesalers! You already know that TM Auto Wholesalers is your best bet for purchasing a car when you have bad credit or no credit, but did you know that you can actually save money by purchasing a used car, truck, or SUV in December?

    BIG SAVINGS IN DECEMBER!

    You read that right! It is actually cheaper to buy a vehicle in December or at the beginning of January than at other times of the year! There are a couple of reasons for these savings.

    # 1. Mike at TM Auto notes, “Suppliers capitalize on profits as tax season approaches by raising car prices for dealers. That’s why I can offer some of my best prices in December and up to January 15th.” Both Military.com and This Is Money report that December is one of the best times to buy a car!

    # 2. Suppliers and used car dealers are more likely to liquidate stock at the end of the fiscal year in order to make room for more automobiles arriving in the new year so it’s a great time to get a deal!

    Come over to TM Auto Wholesalers and we’ll show you how easy buying a car can be and also help you hold on to some of that hard-earned cash for your holiday expenses! As always, you can contact us online at mike@tmauto.com, or by phone or text at 757-560-4252. Ask for Mike, and get a better deal than you ever imagined was possible!

    TM Auto Social Media Managed by Pixel Lab Designs

    Sources

    http://www.military.com Car Shopping Tip: December is a Great Month to Buy a New Car Author: True Car (Blog Post). Retrieved From: http://www.military.com/off-duty/autos/car-shopping-tip-december-2011.html

    http://www.thisismoney.co.uk Buy a used car in December rather than January and you’ll can save enough money to cover cost of Christmas Author: Lee Boyce (Blog Post). Retrieved From: http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/cars/article-2862328/Buy-used-car-December-January-ll-save-money-cover-cost-Christmas.html

    Posted 12/10/2015 in TM AUTO UPDATE

    December, Deals, Cheap, Toyota, TM auto wholesalers, Used Cars

    Dependability – The TM Auto Way

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    happy-tm-auto-customers

    Service that you can depend upon, that’s the TM Auto way. Mike Love’s dedication to service extends far beyond what you have probably come to expect in other used-car dealers. For over 10 years Mike has been steadfast in his dedication to providing the greater Hampton Roads area with quality used cars, trucks, & SUVs, but that’s not all! If you’ve gone through the car-buying process with Mike, then you know that he goes above and beyond in delivering you a quality used vehicle, but you might not know about Mike’s dedication to service in other aspects of life.

    As a member of the Chesapeake Rotary Club’s board of directors Mike strives to live his life according to the Rotary International motto of Service Above Self. This dedication to community service is particularly exemplified in Mike’s position as chair of the Chesapeake Rotary Club’s project, Paint Your Heart Out. The project, which will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, brings together over 500 volunteers to paint the homes of families who have run into unfortunate economic circumstances.

    With this dedication to service, it is no wonder that customers are quick to place their trust in TM Auto! Take for example, the recent case of the lady (to be left unnamed out of respect for privacy) who read a year old article in the Shopper detailing Mike’s dedication to service in all aspects of life. She had never met Mike before, nor did she need to purchase a used vehicle, but she was so enthralled by the article that she told her friend who had recently lost her car about Mike. Her friend was also impressed by the article and wouldn’t you know it, she ended up buying the used-car that you see in the picture at the top of the page!

    Service Above Self; not just the motto of Rotary International, but also the guiding philosophy at TM Auto. From Mike Love and everyone here at TM Auto, we would like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. We hope that you join us in cherishing the all important familial bonds and look forward to doing business during the New Year. As always, if you or anyone you know is in the market for a quality used-vehicle that you can rely upon, then please contact us by email at mike@tmauto.com, or by phone at 757-560-4252. Ask for Mike, and enjoy the low-pressure car-buying experience that comes standard at TM Auto!

    TM Auto Social Media Managed by Pixel Lab Designs

    Posted 12/23/2015 in TM AUTO UPDATE

    Service, Used Car, Used Truck, Used SUV, Savings, Dependability, financing, no credit, bad credit

    Find the right car at TM AUTO!

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    find-it-at-tm-auto

    (Carmen Joyner with her newly purchased 2009 Expedition)

    Whether it has been a long time since your last purchase, or if it is your first time, it’s natural to feel nervous when going to the car lot. In fact, buying a used vehicle can be downright scary, but it doesn’t have to be!  At TM Auto Wholesalers, customer service is our top priority, and we wish for all of customers to feel comfortable when purchasing a used vehicle, regardless of credit history. To allay our customers’ fears, we offer services such as CARFAX vehicle history reports, but we also provide so much more!

    Finding You the Right Car

    Picture this: You’ve browsed the inventory long enough and have finally decided on the car you’ve always wanted, a sporty 2005 Toyota Camry with extra features!  You’re feeling great, content in the knowledge that in a few hours you will riding home in the car of your dreams. You arrive at the lot only to have your dreams crushed upon learning that the Toyota Camry has already been sold!

    Now here’s where things get strange. At most car lots, this would be the point where the salesperson apologizes for the lack of your desired car, and instead offers to direct you towards a suitable (and doubtlessly more expensive) vehicle. Not at TM Auto! Mike Love hates to see a dissatisfied customer, and understands how hard it can be to settle for a different vehicle, so he decides to do some looking of his own upon seeing how distraught you are. A short while later, Mike has set up a deal with a competing used car salesperson, and you leave a satisfied former pedestrian, all with no sale to Mike! Yes, it comes down to customer satisfaction and that’s the bottom line at TM Auto.

    So don’t be scared! Be excited, because the right car for you is waiting at TM Auto Wholesalers! Browse our inventory, check the complimentary CARFAX Vehicle History Reports, and let us know when you are ready to see your new car in person! If you or anyone you know is in the market for a used vehicle, then please contact Mike Love by phone or text at 757-560-4252, or by email at mike@tmauto.com.

    TM Auto Social Media Managed by Pixel Lab Designs

    Posted 01/25/2016 in TM AUTO UPDATE

    bad credit, no credit, low credit, used cars, used vehicles, used SUVs, Used Trucks, cars, trucks, SUVs, Service

    The easiest car buying experience ever!

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    tm-auto-easy-car-buying

    “Darren from Indianapolis” with his trade in and newly purchased 1993 Fox Body Mustang*

    Purchasing an automobile is a big decision, and an exciting one too, but it can also be intimidating and confusing. A hassle free, enjoyable car buying experience is a welcome relief and gives customers the confidence to call back with questions and even send referrals to their family and friends. Being an independent used-car dealer for over 10 years I’ve learned that satisfied customers return. Building a trusting bond helps restore people’s faith in buying pre-owned automobiles. The used car business requires a fresh approach and that’s exactly what has made TM Auto successful.

    As a Director on the Board of the Chesapeake Rotary Club, I strive to align my actions as a car-dealer with the Rotary International motto of “Service Above Self.” By elevating customer service to include pre-sale research, I’m able to help my customers determine exactly what kind of car within their price range suits them,as well as what type of financing will work best for their budget. Consulting is an important part of my customer service. With every purchase I provide a Carfax, state inspection, tags and title transfer, detailing, and in most cases delivery to our client’s front door.

    “Mike makes buying a car as simple as we all wish it could be. He brought the car to me to look at first and for the purchase.” – Proud owner of a new-to-them Highlander

    “Great guy! Not your usual car salesman.” – Cindy

    “Mike made what I thought would be a annoying experience, into a very enjoyable one.” – Cody

    *A recent customer traveled from Indianapolis to purchase a 1993 Fox Body Mustang. I asked what persuaded him to trek 800 miles to TM Auto Wholesalers, he replied, “I knew after talking with you over email, reading reviews of other out of town customers, and by you making sure I knew exactly what I was purchasing before I ever left IN. All of this reassured me that I found the right car dealer”

    I’m always excited to have happy customers. Building long lasting relationships keeps our business growing; it’s what I value most. So when making the decision where to purchase your next used vehicle I hope you’ll remember to look at how the dealership treats its customers. Read their online reviews. If the customer service isn’t great, keep looking.
    Mike Love ~ TM Auto Wholesalers