Time will tell if this company is really Fortune 100 material. Beware of the heaping optimism. - Mechanical Associate CarMax Employee Review

3.0
Jul 22, 2008
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

So far, in an unstable economy this dealership has remained solid in its commitment to not lay-off anyone. As the economy worsens only time will tell if management will stick to their guns on this issue. The benefits are comprehensive and comparable to other employers but not spectacular. This is one of the cleanest dealerships in the automotive industry given their size. The shops are well organized and very well equiped. Auto techs have all their tools provided by the company. Management plans cook outs with quarterly company meetings to let employees know the health of the company, dealership performance, and to break up workplace monotony. They give referal bonuses for new hires. Stock options availible to most employees.

Cons

Very limited advancement oppertunities if you are not willing to relocate. Bonus programs not tied to individual performance but to dealership performance and are rarely acquired. No cost of living, or annual wage increases. (I.E. You get paid the amount you get paid untill you advance even if it takes 5 years to advance to next level!) Technical training is offered but classes are few and far between and have limited availibility.

Explore other reviews about CarMax

5.0
Mar 2, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Communication, acknowledgment, recognition, growth, benefits

Cons

Work life balance as a sales manager is difficult when you have smaller children

4.0
Jun 13, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The perks of working at CarMax are quite extensive. Associates are offered an aggressive 401k program, Stock Purchasing Plan, in store discounts on sales and service, access to the CarMax Wholesale system, excellent healthcare, plenty of PTO, and at my location we are given as much OT as we want. My coworkers are generally good people, that I enjoy being able to work along side day in and day out. Management is very understanding in regards to calling out sick family emergencies, and schedule requests.

Cons

Despite doing the work of 5 people, and very politely asking for a raise management will not give me more than my 3% annual raise which is the single biggest let down. The bonus change of 2025 being labeled as "exciting" was straight corporate gaslighting unlike anything I've ever seen. Since the start of 2026, as of this review being written we have lost 7 associates largely due to pay, and I am soon to join those associates. Management from the store level up to corporate needs to understand that to retain their top performers they need to be compensated like a top performer. Some members of management are cliquey and moody which is very frustrating to deal with. Quality of Management varies wildly from store to store as well

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