Buying a used car is usually about as fun as getting a root canal. You walk onto a lot, some guy in a cheap suit starts breathing down your neck, and suddenly you're looking at a monthly payment that costs more than your first apartment. But if you’ve spent any time driving through the Upstate, specifically around the 29303 area code, you’ve likely seen North Pine Auto Sales Spartanburg. It’s that local fixture that’s been sitting at 689 North Pine Street for years. It isn’t a massive, glass-walled mega-dealership with a coffee bar and a putting green. It’s a "buy-here, pay-here" spot.
Honestly, people have a lot of preconceived notions about these kinds of places. Some think they’re a lifesaver; others are convinced they’re a trap. The reality of North Pine Auto Sales Spartanburg is somewhere in the nuanced middle.
How North Pine Auto Sales Spartanburg Actually Works
Let’s get the mechanics out of the way. If you’re searching for this place, you probably aren’t looking for a 2026 luxury electric vehicle. You’re looking for a way to get to work. Most customers here are dealing with "bruised" credit—or maybe no credit at all.
Unlike the big franchises that ship your application off to a bank in Charlotte or Atlanta, North Pine Auto Sales Spartanburg handles things in-house. That’s the "buy-here, pay-here" model. You aren't paying a bank; you're paying the dealer. This is huge for anyone who has been laughed out of a traditional showroom because of a bankruptcy or a few missed payments in their past.
They typically open up around 8:30 AM most weekdays. If you show up on a Saturday or Sunday, you’re out of luck because they stay closed on weekends. That’s a bit of an old-school move, but it’s common for family-run operations in the South.
The Inventory Reality
The lot isn't infinite. You’ll see a mix of sedans, some SUVs, and the occasional truck. It’s the kind of inventory that turns over fast. If you see a Honda or a Toyota on the lot on Monday, it might be gone by Wednesday.
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One thing that surprises people is the sheer longevity of the business. In an industry where small lots pop up and disappear within six months, North Pine has stuck around. They’ve maintained a 4.2-star rating on Google with over 50 reviews, which, for a subprime auto dealer, is actually pretty impressive. Usually, people only leave reviews for car dealers when they’re angry. Seeing positive notes about cars lasting two-plus years is a good sign.
Why the Location Matters
Being on North Pine Street puts them right in the thick of Spartanburg's "automotive row." You’ve got Benson Nissan nearby and plenty of other competitors. This is actually good for you, the buyer. It means they can’t get away with selling total junk because you could literally walk a block in either direction to find something else.
The physical address is 689 N Pine St, Spartanburg, SC 29303.
If you’re coming from downtown, it’s a straight shot. It’s accessible. They have wheelchair-accessible parking and entrances, which is a detail many small lots overlook.
The Credit Myth and the In-House Financing Loophole
People often think "in-house financing" is just a way to charge 30% interest. While interest rates at buy-here, pay-here lots are higher than a prime bank loan, the "loophole" is the accessibility.
At North Pine Auto Sales Spartanburg, the focus is less on your FICO score and more on your stability. Can you prove you have a job? Do you have a permanent address? If you can answer yes, you can usually get a key.
But here is what most people get wrong: they think they don’t need a down payment. You almost always need cash upfront. The down payment is the dealer’s insurance. It covers their initial cost so they can take the risk on the financing.
A Few Things to Watch Out For
Don't go in blind. Even with a reputable spot, you’re buying a used machine with thousands of moving parts.
- No Delivery: They don’t ship cars. You show up, you drive it home.
- Limited Hours: They close at 5:30 PM. If you work a 9-to-5 in Greenville, you’re going to have to hustle to get there before they lock the gates.
- BBB Status: They aren’t BBB accredited. For some, that’s a red flag. For others who know how the BBB works (it's basically a paid membership for businesses), it’s a non-issue as long as the local reputation holds up.
The Strategy for Buying from North Pine Auto Sales Spartanburg
If you’re going to head down there, don't just look at the shiny paint. These are pre-owned vehicles. Open the hood. Check the fluids. Ask about the history.
Because they are a family-oriented business, the vibe is generally less "high-pressure shark" and more "straightforward neighbor." But you still need to do your homework.
- Bring your docs: Paystubs, utility bills, and a valid ID.
- Have your "walk-away" number: Know exactly what you can afford every two weeks or every month.
- Check the tires: It sounds simple, but tires are expensive. If the tread is thin, use that to negotiate the down payment.
Final Practical Insights
North Pine Auto Sales Spartanburg fills a very specific gap in the Spartanburg market. They aren't trying to be a luxury boutique. They are a utility service for the working person.
If you have a 750 credit score, you should probably go to a traditional franchise dealer for a lower APR. But if life has been a bit messy and you need a reliable way to get from point A to point B without a bank checking your every move, this is one of the more stable options in the Upstate.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Call Ahead: Dial 864-583-7482 before you drive over to see if they have the specific body style (SUV vs. Sedan) you need.
- Verify the Down Payment: Ask specifically what the minimum "cash on the table" is for their current inventory.
- Test Drive at Speed: Don't just circle the block. Get the car up to 55 mph on the highway to check for shakes or rattles before you sign the financing paperwork.