Why?

There's a reason. We don't rush the process. Because we'd rather do it right than do it fast. Our CEO, Jay, personally looks at and drives every vehicle before we consider purchasing it. We don't simply buy vehicles blindly at auction. We carefully select the cars, trucks, and SUVs we believe are worth putting our name on. Click Here to know more!

By the time you see one of our vehicles online, it has been through research, inspection, servicing, repairs, reconditioning, detailing, photography, and pricing.

And there's one more thing that makes the Back Roads experience different: Our salespeople don't work on commission.

We want you to have the time to look, compare, ask questions, and find the vehicle that's right for you — without the pressure of a traditional commission-based sales experience.

We know waiting a few weeks can seem like a long time. We hope this gives you a better understanding of everything that happens behind the scenes before a Back Roads vehicle is ready for you.

At Back Roads Automotive, every vehicle we consider buying gets a lot of attention before it ever reaches our lot.

That's what goes into getting a vehicle Back Roads ready.

Once we purchase a vehicle, it goes through our 18-step process before we put it up for sale.

Here's what that looks like:

Day 1: Research

Jay looks at and drives the vehicle before we decide whether to buy it. We research the vehicle's market value, supply, demand, equipment, mileage, and condition.

We use tools including CARFAX, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), and multiple vehicle valuation guides to help us make informed buying and pricing decisions.

Day 2: Purchase

We purchase vehicles from other dealers and local sellers. We carefully select the vehicles we believe will make good additions to our inventory.

Days 3–5: Transportation

Our transportation team picks up the vehicle and brings it to Back Roads Automotive.

Days 5–8: Pre-Sale Inspection

Our technicians test drive and inspect the vehicle, checking for issues that need attention before it goes through the rest of our process.

Days 9–12: State Inspection

The vehicle goes to a third-party Virginia State Inspector here in Great Bridge.

We make sure it meets Virginia inspection requirements, and the oil is changed. Honda vehicles are serviced through Priority Honda.

Days 13–20: Repairs

The vehicle comes back to our shop for repairs and replacements that may be needed. This can include things like small dents, radios, trim pieces, or other minor repairs.

Days 21–25: Reconditioning & Detail

This is more than just a wash and vacuum.

Our team cleans the vehicle inside and out, works on stains and imperfections, and takes care of appropriate cosmetic items to get the vehicle looking its best.

Day 26: Photos

Once the vehicle is ready, it goes into our photo booth.

We take 50+ photos so you can get a good look at the vehicle online, and we apply the appropriate window stickers.

Day 27: Pricing & Listing

Before the vehicle goes online, we research the market again.

We compare mileage, equipment, features, condition, and current market pricing to help us determine a competitive price.

Days 30–45: Sold!

Then we wait for the right customer to come along.

Our vehicles average about 27 days online, and eventually, one of our happy customers drives away in their new-to-them vehicle. ??

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for a Trade-In

Thinking about trading in your vehicle? A little preparation before you visit Back Roads Automotive can make the process easier and give us a better opportunity to see your vehicle at its best.

You don't need to make your vehicle look brand new. Just a few simple steps can help.

Give It a Good Once Over

Remove personal items from the seats, trunk, and cargo area.

A clean vehicle makes it easier for us to see its actual condition and gives you a chance to make sure nothing important is left behind.

Bring Your Paperwork

If you have them, bring your service records, repair receipts, title, registration, and information about any existing loan.

Having these items ready can help make the trade-in process quicker and easier.

Be Upfront About Your Vehicle

Every used vehicle has some wear and tear. Scratches, dents, and previous repairs are normal.

Just be honest about your vehicle's condition and history. We're used to seeing all kinds of trades at Back Roads Automotive, and knowing the details helps us give you a more accurate evaluation.

What Goes Into a Trade-In Value?

When we look at a trade, we consider several things, including mileage, condition, maintenance history, equipment, and current market demand.

There isn't one single thing that determines what your vehicle is worth.

You can learn more about the process on our trade-in page.

Already Thinking About Your Next Vehicle?

While you're getting your trade ready, take a look at what we have available. You may find your next car, truck, or SUV before you even come in.

Browse our current inventory.

Keep It Simple

You don't need to spend an entire weekend getting your vehicle ready for a trade.

Clean it up, gather your paperwork, take care of the little things, and bring it to Back Roads Automotive.

We'll take it from there and make the trade-in process as simple and straightforward as possible.

Have questions? Reach out to our team — we're happy to help.

It's almost gone!

Thank you! If you've bought from us or recommended friends or family, we sincerely appreciate it. It’s been a very busy summer here at Back Roads Automotive, and we’re grateful to have helped so many local families find the right used car, truck, or SUV for their needs.

We’ve served families throughout Chesapeake, Great Bridge, Hickory, Moyock, Currituck, and the surrounding Hampton Roads communities, as well as customers who have traveled to us from the Outer Banks. Did you know we sell across the nation? We really do!

The end of summer is an especially busy time for local families. Parents are preparing young children for their first big day of school, families are squeezing in last-minute trips, and older children are heading off to college. With so much planning, activity, and emotion happening at this time of year, we understand that every family has different transportation needs, budgets, and timelines.

That’s why we keep a large selection of quality used cars, trucks, and SUVs at a variety of price points. Whether you need an affordable commuter car, a dependable family SUV, a truck for work, or a vehicle for a new driver heading off to college, our goal is to make finding the right vehicle simple and stress-free.

At Back Roads Automotive, we carefully select our inventory so our customers can shop with confidence. We believe buying a used vehicle should be easy, transparent, and enjoyable.

We’re also proud to offer fast and easy financing options through great lending partners. And one of the things that makes shopping at Back Roads Automotive different is that our salespeople do not work on commission. That means you can take your time, look at different models, ask questions, and find the vehicle that fits your needs without the pressure of a traditional dealership sales experience.

Thank you to our local community for supporting Back Roads Automotive throughout the summer. We appreciate every customer who has trusted us with such an important purchase, and we look forward to helping many more families throughout Chesapeake, Hampton Roads, Southern Virginia, Northeast North Carolina, and the Outer Banks.

Looking for a quality used car, truck, or SUV? Stop by Back Roads Automotive and see what we have in stock, or visit our inventory page to shop our current selection online.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car at Back Roads Automotive

Buying a used car isn’t just about finding something that fits your budget—it’s about finding a vehicle you can trust. At Back Roads Automotive, our goal is simple: make sure every customer feels confident, informed, and comfortable with their purchase.  Click the link and check out why we are different.  Click Here!  

If you’re shopping for a used car in Chesapeake, VA, here’s what we believe truly matters—and how we do things differently at Back Roads Automotive.

Start With Trust and Transparency

Before you ever look at mileage or features, you should feel confident in where you’re buying.

At Back Roads Automotive, we believe:

• You deserve honest answers, not sales pressure

• Vehicle information should be clear and easy to understand

• A good buying experience starts with trust

That’s why we’re upfront about our vehicles, pricing, and process from the beginning.

Vehicle History You Can Feel Confident About

A used car’s past plays a big role in its future.

When you shop with us, we’re happy to provide a full CarFax report that shows:

• Ownership history

• Maintenance records when available

• Any accidents or recalls on the vehicle

We want you to know exactly what you’re getting—no guessing, no surprises.

Condition Over Age or Mileage

A common mistake buyers make is focusing only on the year or mileage.

At Back Roads Automotive, we pay closer attention to:

• How the vehicle was maintained

• How it drives and performs today

• Overall mechanical and cosmetic condition

A well-cared-for vehicle often provides better long-term value than a newer car that wasn’t properly maintained.

Inspections Done the Right Way

Every vehicle we sell goes through an inspection process before it ever reaches the lot.

Our approach:

• Mechanical checks are completed before state inspection

• Any concerns are addressed upfront

• We’re always happy to explain what was inspected and why

We believe transparency builds confidence—and confidence builds long-term relationships.

Financing That Makes Sense for You

Finding the right car is only part of the equation. The financing should feel just as comfortable.

At Back Roads Automotive, we take the time to:

• Go through 25+ Banks and Credit Union’s 

• Explain interest rates and loan terms

• Review monthly payments clearly

• Help you choose an option that fits your budget

No rushed decisions. No confusing numbers. Just straightforward guidance.

A Buying Experience That Feels Right

If something doesn’t feel right, you should never feel pressured to move forward.

We encourage our customers to:

• Ask questions

• Take their time

• Make the decision that feels best for them

That’s how car buying should feel.

Check out this video from Jay! https://www.facebook.com/reel/1315269390379528

Why Choose Back Roads Automotive?

We’re proud to be a local used car dealership in Chesapeake, VA, built on honesty, transparency, and respect for our customers.

Whether you’re a first time buyer, or you’ve shopped with us before, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Stop by Back Roads Automotive, browse our inventory online, or reach out anytime.

Because buying a used car should feel just as good as driving it.

— Back Roads Automotive

How Financing Works at Back Roads Automotive

Financing a vehicle doesn't have to be complicated. At Back Roads Automotive, we work with more than 20 lenders, giving our customers access to a variety of financing options in one place.

Our lending partners include Capital One, TowneBank, Navy Federal Credit Union, and many local credit unions and other financial institutions.

Having multiple lending sources means we can look for financing options that fit your individual situation instead of relying on just one lender.

Every Lender Is Different

Every lender has its own programs, guidelines, and approval requirements.

That's why having access to multiple lenders can be helpful. Your financing options may vary depending on your credit history, income, down payment, vehicle, and other factors.

One Application Makes It Easier

Instead of visiting several banks or credit unions and completing multiple applications, you can start with one credit application through Back Roads Automotive.

Our team can work with our lending partners to help identify available financing options.

We Help You Understand Your Options

When financing options are available, we'll go over the details with you, including loan terms, payment options, and other important factors.

Our goal isn't to tell you which loan to choose. It's to help you understand your options so you can make the decision that's right for you.

You Can Get Started Before You Visit

If you'd like to get a head start, you can complete our online credit application from home.

Having your basic information ready can help make the financing process faster when you come in.

Trading In Your Vehicle?

If you have a vehicle to trade, its value can become part of the overall transaction. If you still owe money on your current vehicle, bringing your payoff information can help us get accurate numbers.

Learn more on our trade-in page.

Financing Made Easier

At Back Roads Automotive, we know that financing can sometimes feel like the most stressful part of buying a vehicle. That's why we work with more than 20 lending sources to give our customers more options.

From major lenders like Capital One and Navy Federal to local credit unions and other financial institutions, we'll work to help make the financing process as simple and straightforward as possible.

Have questions about financing? Reach out to our team. We're happy to help you get started.

A Little Laughs from Back Roads Automotive

Buying a car doesn't always have to be serious! Check out our crew misbehaving. Click Here!

At Back Roads Automotive, we work hard to help our customers find the right vehicle, but we also like to have a little fun along the way. Our team has a pretty good sense of humor as you can see.

We've put together some of our favorite funny reels, and dealership laughs for you to enjoy.

Some are about cars. Some are about our customers. Some are about our team. And a few… well, you'll just have to watch them. ??

So take a break, grab a cup of coffee, and have a laugh with the Back Roads Automotive crew.

We're serious about cars. We're just not serious all the time!

Why Your Tires Matter When Trading In Your Vehicle

When you're getting ready to trade in your vehicle, you probably think about mileage, age, and overall condition. But don't forget the tires.

At Back Roads Automotive, we look at the entire vehicle when evaluating a trade, and tire condition is one of the things we consider.

Check the Tread

Worn tires may mean replacement is needed sooner rather than later. Tires with good tread show that the vehicle is ready for the road.

Look for Uneven Wear

Take a quick look at your tires before you come in. Uneven wear can sometimes point to alignment or suspension issues.

Take Care of the Basics

A few simple things can help:

• Check your tire pressure

• Look at the tread and wear

• Bring maintenance records if you have them

You don't need to buy new tires just because you're trading in your vehicle. We'd rather see the vehicle as it is and give you an honest evaluation.

Tires Are Just One Piece of the Puzzle

Tires are only one part of a trade-in evaluation. We also consider mileage, condition, maintenance history, equipment, and current market demand.

If you're thinking about trading in your vehicle, you can learn more about the trade-in process or browse our current inventory while you're planning your next vehicle.

Have questions? Reach out to our team. We're happy to help.

Questions to Ask About Financing Your Next Vehicle

Financing a vehicle can feel confusing, but it doesn't have to be. At Back Roads Automotive, we encourage our customers to ask questions. The more you understand, the more comfortable you'll feel with your decision.

Here are a few good questions to ask when you're financing your next vehicle.

How Long Is the Loan?

Ask about the available loan terms and how they affect your monthly payment. A longer term may lower the monthly payment, but it's important to understand the overall cost of the loan.

What Will My Payment Include?

Make sure you understand what goes into your monthly payment. Ask about the loan amount, interest rate, taxes, fees, and any other costs included in the financing.

How Does My Trade-In Affect the Deal?

If you're trading in your current vehicle, ask how its value affects the amount you're financing. Do you owe more than your trade is worth? It happens! We can help.

You can learn more about the trade-in process before you visit.

What Should I Bring?

Having your driver's license, insurance information, pay stubs, residence info and other requested documents ready can help keep things moving.

If you have a trade-in, bringing your title and payoff information can also be helpful.

Can I Start Online?

Absolutely. If you'd like to get started before coming in, you can complete our online credit application.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions

At Back Roads Automotive, we don't expect everyone to understand auto financing. That's what we're here for.

Ask questions. Take your time. Make sure you understand your options before making a decision.

There are no bad questions when you're making an important purchase.

If you're ready to start looking for your next car, truck, or SUV, browse our inventory or reach out to our team. We're happy to help.

Off-Road Capability: Is It Right for You?

At Back Roads Automotive, we see plenty of trucks and SUVs with off-road packages. They look great and offer extra capability, but they aren't necessarily right for everyone.

Off-road packages can include upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires, skid plates, increased ground clearance, and other features designed for rough or unpaved roads. While they look awesome, sometimes it can affect the state inspection.

Here are a few things to consider.

Ride Quality

Off-road suspension can feel firmer than a standard setup. Some drivers love the confident feel, while others prefer a smoother ride for everyday driving.

All-Terrain Tires

They provide better traction on gravel, dirt, and loose surfaces, but can be a little noisier on the highway and may affect fuel economy.

Ground Clearance

More clearance can be helpful on rough roads, steep driveways, trails, and in deep snow. The tradeoff is that a taller vehicle can be a little harder to get into.

Looks Matter Too

Let's be honest — sometimes you just like the way an off-road truck or SUV looks. Bigger tires, rugged styling, and unique trim can make a vehicle stand out. That's a perfectly good reason to choose one.

Think About How You Drive

If most of your driving is around Chesapeake, Great Bridge, Hickory, Moyock, or Currituck, you may not need an off-road package.

But if you regularly travel gravel roads, go camping, enjoy outdoor activities, tow, or head off the pavement, the added capability may be worth it.

At Back Roads Automotive, we believe the best vehicle is the one that fits your real life. Whether you're looking for a used truck, SUV, 4x4, or everyday family vehicle, we'll help you compare your options and find the right combination of features, comfort, and price.

Browse our current inventory or contact our team if you'd like help finding the right vehicle.

Safety Technology in Today's SUVs

Today's SUVs have technology that can make driving easier and more comfortable. Features that were once limited to expensive luxury vehicles can now be found in many everyday cars and SUVs.

At Back Roads Automotive, we see customers looking for these features all the time. Here are a few of the most common ones to look for.

Blind Spot Monitoring

Changing lanes can be easier when your vehicle can alert you to a vehicle in your blind spot. Some systems also provide a warning when traffic is approaching as you back out of a parking space.

Better Camera Systems

Backup cameras are now common on most newer vehicles, and some SUVs offer additional camera views.

These can be especially helpful when parking, backing up, or maneuvering a larger SUV in a tight space.

Driver Assistance Features

Depending on the vehicle, you may find features such as:

• Adaptive cruise control

• Lane departure warnings

• Lane keeping assistance

• Forward collision warnings

• Automatic emergency braking

These features are designed to assist the driver, not replace paying attention behind the wheel.

Every Vehicle Is Different

Safety and driver-assistance features can vary quite a bit between makes, models, and trim levels. Two similar-looking SUVs may have very different equipment.

That's why it's worth checking the actual features on the vehicle you're considering and taking it for a test drive.

Find What Works for You

Not everyone needs every technology feature. Some drivers love having all the latest technology, while others prefer a simpler vehicle.

At Back Roads Automotive, we have a variety of cars, trucks, and SUVs with different safety and technology features. We're happy to help you compare them and understand what you're getting.

Browse our current inventory or reach out to our team if you'd like help finding a vehicle with the features that are important to you.