M & M Imports in Chattanooga: Japanese and European Used Cars with In-House Financing
M & M Imports is a used car dealership on East Main Street specializing in Japanese and European imports, with an in-house financing operation that sets it apart from larger Chattanooga dealers who rely on bank partnerships or captive lenders.
What M & M Imports actually is
M & M Imports buys, reconitions, and sells used vehicles from Japan and Europe, predominantly Hondas, Toyotas, Mazdas, Niscos, and Audis in the $8,000 to $25,000 range. The lot holds roughly 30 to 50 vehicles at any given time. The operation is smaller than CarMax or the used-car arms of franchised dealers like Hendrick Honda or Subaru of Chattanooga, but larger than independent buy-here-pay-here lots. The dealership's primary draw is its ability to finance buyers in-house, meaning approval does not depend on bank credit scores alone; this model works for buyers with thin or damaged credit histories who would be rejected by conventional lenders.
Inventory, financing, and pricing
M & M Imports stocks mostly sedans, hatchbacks, and compact crossovers aged 5 to 15 years. Audis and Mazdas tend to price higher ($18,000 to $25,000); Corollas, Civics, and older Accords cluster between $10,000 and $16,000. Prices are not negotiable and are posted on each vehicle.
In-house financing terms typically run 48 to 72 months with down payments starting at $1,500 to $2,500. Interest rates vary by buyer creditworthiness but generally range 8 percent to 18 percent annual percentage rate. Payment amounts depend on the vehicle price, term length, and rate offered. Buyers should confirm current rates and terms directly, as lending terms shift with market conditions and individual circumstances.
Buyers approved through conventional banks or credit unions will find better rates than M & M's in-house offers, but the in-house path moves faster and does not require a pre-approval letter. For buyers unable to qualify elsewhere, M & M's financing is the primary reason to shop there.
How M & M Imports compares to other Chattanooga used-car dealers
Hendrick Honda and Subaru of Chattanooga, both franchised dealers near Hamilton Place, carry newer inventory (typically 1 to 5 years old) and rely on bank financing; their prices run $15,000 to $35,000 and their financing rates are lower for qualified buyers. Those dealers suit buyers with stable credit and preference for warranty coverage.
CarMax on Gunbarrel Road stocks 200+ vehicles across all age ranges and price points, with guaranteed 7-day returns and financing available to most buyers regardless of credit. CarMax prices run 10 to 20 percent higher than M & M for comparable vehicles due to overhead and return policy.
Kelly's Auto Sales and other small independent lots focus on sub-$10,000 inventory and often require cash or minimal financing. M & M bridges the gap: higher-quality imports than cash-only lots, in-house financing, but below the price and warranty assurance of franchised dealers.
Who M & M Imports suits and who it does not
M & M works best for buyers seeking a specific import brand (Honda or Mazda particularly) with limited credit options, willing to accept a 10+ year-old vehicle, and comfortable with a 48- to 72-month payment obligation. Second-time buyers or those rebuilding credit after hardship are the primary customer base.
It does not suit buyers wanting a warranty beyond 30 days, requiring sub-48-month financing, preferring vehicles under 5 years old, or able to qualify for bank financing. Those buyers will find better terms and selection at franchised dealers or CarMax.
The first visit and mechanics
Walk in during business hours to browse the lot. Sales staff will pull the specific vehicle onto the showroom pad and walk you through mileage, service history, any known issues, and pricing. A test drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes; bring your driver's license.
If interested, you move to the finance office. Bring proof of income (recent pay stubs), a government ID, proof of residence (utility bill or lease), and references. The in-house financing decision usually comes within an hour. The dealership does not require a pre-purchase inspection but offers one through an independent shop for $150 to $200; this is optional and recommended for buyers uncertain of condition.
Hours, location, and parking
M & M Imports is located on East Main Street in East Chattanooga. The lot has space for 50+ vehicles and customer parking. Hours are typically Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; confirm current hours before visiting, as retail hours shift seasonally and occasionally for inventory events. The dealership is closed on major holidays.
M & M Imports fills a specific role in Chattanooga's used-car market: it moves inventory fast because its in-house financing captures buyers locked out of traditional lending, and its focus on Japanese and European imports appeals to Chattanooga buyers who prefer those brands' reliability. For buyers with credit barriers, it is often the fastest path to ownership.
