What to Know About Buying and Servicing a Car at Relative Auto Sales & Services

Relative Auto Sales & Services combines used-car sales with repair and maintenance work in one location

Relative Auto Sales & Services operates as a used-car dealership that also handles vehicle repairs, maintenance, and service work. Rather than sending you elsewhere for an oil change or inspection after you buy, the business handles both the sale and the ongoing upkeep under the same roof. This setup can simplify the process of finding a vehicle and keeping it running.

The business is located in South Carolina and serves customers looking for used vehicles alongside those who need repair or maintenance services on cars they already own. Understanding what the business offers—and what to expect when you visit—helps you plan whether it fits your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Relative Auto Sales & Services sells used vehicles and performs repair and maintenance work at the same location.
• The business handles both pre-purchase inspections and post-sale service, which can reduce the number of places you need to visit.
• Used-car purchases typically involve reviewing the vehicle's history, condition, and price before deciding to buy.
• Service work at the location may include routine maintenance like oil changes, tire service, and diagnostic repairs.
• Visiting in person allows you to see available inventory, discuss vehicle history, and ask about service options.

What to expect when shopping for a used vehicle

When you visit Relative Auto Sales & Services to look at used cars, you will see the inventory available on the lot. The selection changes as vehicles are sold and new ones arrive, so what is available on any given day depends on recent sales and acquisitions. Asking about the vehicle's history—how many previous owners it had, whether it was in accidents, and its maintenance record—gives you a clearer picture of what you are considering.

Many used-car buyers want to know the vehicle's condition before committing. Some dealerships offer pre-purchase inspections or can arrange for an independent mechanic to examine the car. Since Relative Auto Sales & Services has repair capabilities on-site, they can often perform or discuss inspection findings directly. Comparing the asking price to similar vehicles in your area helps you understand whether the price is reasonable for the condition and mileage.

How the repair and service side works

Beyond selling vehicles, Relative Auto Sales & Services performs repair and maintenance work. This includes routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid top-ups. The business also handles diagnostic work when something is not running right, identifying the problem so you know what repairs are needed and what they will cost.

Having sales and service in one place means you can discuss maintenance needs with the same team that sold you the vehicle. If you buy a used car and later discover it needs work, you already know where to take it. For customers who own vehicles purchased elsewhere, the service department is also open to handle repairs and upkeep.

Understanding pricing and payment options

Used-car prices vary based on the vehicle's age, mileage, condition, and local demand. Relative Auto Sales & Services sets prices for the vehicles on its lot, and those prices may be negotiable depending on the dealership's policies. Asking about financing options, trade-in value if you have a vehicle to trade, and any warranties or guarantees on the sale helps you understand the full cost of buying.

Service and repair costs depend on what work is needed. An oil change costs less than engine diagnostics or major repairs. Asking for an estimate before work begins is standard practice and helps you budget for the service. Some dealerships offer service packages or loyalty discounts for repeat customers, so it is worth asking whether those are available.

When to visit and how to prepare

Relative Auto Sales & Services operates during business hours that you can confirm by calling ahead or checking their contact information. If you are shopping for a vehicle, visiting during daylight hours lets you see the cars clearly and take them for a test drive if the dealership offers that option. Bringing your driver's license and proof of insurance is standard when test-driving.

If you are bringing a vehicle in for service, having your keys and a description of any problems you have noticed helps the service team understand what to look for. Asking about turnaround time—how long the work will take—helps you plan for when your vehicle will be ready. Some service work can be done the same day, while larger repairs may take longer.

Questions to ask before buying or using the service

Before purchasing a used vehicle, ask about the dealership's return or warranty policy. Some dealerships offer a short period during which you can return the car if major problems appear, while others sell vehicles as-is. Understanding what recourse you have if something goes wrong shortly after purchase protects you.

For service work, ask whether the business uses original manufacturer parts or aftermarket parts, as this affects cost and sometimes warranty coverage. Ask about labor rates and whether there are any service specials or discounts currently running. If you are a first-time customer, asking how long the business has been operating and whether they have references or reviews can give you confidence in their work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trade in my old car when buying from Relative Auto Sales & Services?

Many used-car dealerships accept trade-ins as part of the purchase. The dealership will evaluate your current vehicle's condition and mileage to determine its trade-in value, which is then applied toward the price of the car you are buying. Contact the dealership to ask whether they accept trade-ins and what information they need about your vehicle to give you an estimate.

What should I do if I find a problem with a used car shortly after buying it?

Review the dealership's warranty or return policy, which should have been explained at the time of purchase. If a major problem appears within the covered period, contact the dealership right away. Since Relative Auto Sales & Services has repair capabilities, they may be able to fix the issue or discuss your options for resolution.

How long does a typical oil change or tire rotation take?

Routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations usually takes one to two hours, depending on how busy the service department is. More complex work takes longer. Calling ahead to ask about wait times and whether you can drop off your vehicle or need to stay helps you plan your day.

Do I need an appointment for service, or can I walk in?

Some service departments take walk-ins, while others work by appointment. Calling ahead to ask about their scheduling policy ensures you do not waste a trip. During busy seasons, appointments may fill up quickly, so booking in advance is often the best approach.

What if I buy a car elsewhere but need repairs—will Relative Auto Services work on it?

Most independent repair shops and dealership service departments will service vehicles regardless of where they were purchased. Contact Relative Auto Sales & Services to confirm they work on outside vehicles and ask about their rates and availability.