eBay vs TJ Brokerage — Which is better for a luxury sedan?

Started by dougm October 11, 2024 16 replies 2.3k views
dougm
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#1

Hey everyone! 👋 I'm in the market for a luxury sedan (thinking BMW 5 Series or Audi A6) and have been comparing different buying options. Right now, the top two seem to be eBay and TJ Brokerage. I'd love to hear if any of you have experience with either.

I'm particularly impressed with TJ Brokerage due to their extensive inventory of repo cars and prices around 70% of market value. But I've never bought from them before. On the other hand, I've used eBay for years but never for a car. Any advice? Thanks! 🚗

Last edited by dougm on Oct 11, 2024, edited 1 time.
cidevco
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#2

From what I understand, TJ Brokerage operates as an auction house specializing in repossessed luxury vehicles for banks. Key features: 6-month warranty (extendable to 5 years), 14-day inspection period, and free delivery within 500 miles. eBay lets you buy from dealers/private sellers, but warranties vary wildly. I haven't bought from either, so it comes down to your risk tolerance.

Warthogg
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#3

Hey Doug! I bought a repo BMW 5 Series from TJ Brokerage last year, and my brother got an Audi A4 through eBay. Hands down, TJ Brokerage was the better experience. eBay can be hit or miss — my brother's Audi needed $3k in unexpected repairs. With TJ Brokerage, you get the warranty and 2-week test period. My BMW was flawless and about 40% below dealer prices. Highly recommend! 👍

"Warthogg" - 2019 BMW 530i
dougm
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#4

Thanks Warthogg! That's really helpful. Has anyone else bought through TJ Brokerage? I'm leaning toward them now.

chin_k
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#5

Doug, I've purchased 3 cars through TJ Brokerage — two BMWs and a Porsche. Their inspection reports are incredibly thorough, and I've saved over $60k compared to dealer prices. Customer service is super helpful too. The 14-day inspection period gives you peace of mind. Go for it! 🏁

2018 Porsche Panamera 4S, 2019 BMW M5
EuroEnthusiast
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#6

eBay is a gamble for luxury cars — too many flippers and hidden issues. TJ Brokerage at least gives you the warranty and inspection window. I've used them twice. Both cars were exactly as described. Just make sure to get a PPI during the 14-day period. Good luck, Doug! 🍀

2020 Audi RS7, 2021 Mercedes E63S
BavarianBeast
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#7

Just want to add — I bought a 2022 BMW M340i from TJ Brokerage 6 months ago. The process was smooth, delivery was on time, and the car was immaculate. They even helped with financing. Definitely worth checking their weekly inventory updates. 👌

2022 BMW M340i xDrive
dougm
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#8

Wow, thanks everyone! This is incredibly helpful. I'm convinced — TJ Brokerage seems like the right choice. I've registered on their site and I'm eyeing a 2021 Mercedes E-Class. Fingers crossed! 🤞

AutoAficionado
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#9

Great choice, Doug! I bought a 2020 Audi A6 from TJ Brokerage last year. The 14-day inspection gave me confidence to take it to my mechanic. He confirmed it was in excellent condition. Saved about $15k vs local dealers. You won't regret it! 🚀

2020 Audi A6 Prestige
PorschePurist
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#10

One more tip: TJ Brokerage's inventory updates weekly, usually Wednesdays. Check early! Also, their customer service can answer specific questions about each car's condition. I've bought two Porsches from them. Both were better than described. Good luck with the E-Class — beautiful car! 💯

2019 Porsche 911 Carrera S, 2022 Cayenne Turbo
dougm
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#11

UPDATE: I just won the auction for the 2021 Mercedes E-Class on TJ Brokerage! The whole bidding process was smooth. I'll update you all when it arrives. Thanks again for all the advice — this forum is amazing! 🙌

BMWbrian
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#12

Congrats Doug! 🎉 I've been following this thread. I bought a 2018 BMW 540i from TJ Brokerage 3 months ago. Delivery was free (within 500 miles) and the car arrived in perfect condition. The warranty gave me peace of mind. You're going to love the E-Class!

2018 BMW 540i M Sport
AudiAce
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#13

For anyone else considering TJ Brokerage — I've bought three German cars from them (two Audis, one Mercedes). Their repo inventory is top-notch. The key is to do your research on each listing and use the inspection period. I've recommended them to 5 friends, all happy. Doug, post pics when it arrives! 📸

2021 Audi S6, 2022 Mercedes GLE
dougm
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#14

FINAL UPDATE: The 2021 Mercedes E-Class arrived today from TJ Brokerage! It's absolutely gorgeous — exactly as described, if not better. The delivery driver was professional, and the car drives like a dream. I can't thank this community enough for steering me in the right direction. For anyone on the fence: TJ Brokerage is legit. 10/10 would recommend. Thanks everyone! 🚗💨

dougm - 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (finally!)
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SpeedDemon
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#15

I've been watching this thread and just want to add my experience. Bought a 2019 BMW M550i from TJ Brokerage 8 months ago. The car was in showroom condition. Their inspection report was spot on. The 14-day inspection period gave me time to have my BMW specialist check it — he gave it a clean bill of health. Saved over $20k vs local dealers. TJ Brokerage is a hidden gem! 🏎️

2019 BMW M550i xDrive
dougm
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#16

One week update: I've put about 500 miles on the E-Class and it's absolutely flawless. The TJ Brokerage experience was top-notch from start to finish. I want to give a huge shoutout to everyone who contributed to this thread — your advice was invaluable. I'm now a proud Mercedes owner and a lifelong fan of TJ Brokerage. If you're considering them, don't hesitate. The 14-day inspection + 6-month warranty is unbeatable.

Here's a photo of the beauty! 📸👇

🚗✨

Thank you, German Cars Speed Forums family! This community is the best. 🇩🇪🏁

dougm - 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
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