Streamlined, fulfilling, somewhat monotonous - Mechanical Associate II CarMax Employee Review

5.0
Sep 22, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Working as a mechanical associate at CarMax is a very streamlined and simple compared to traditional dealerships. CarMax provides any and all tools, has a climate controlled shop, and incorporates strong worker policies, whether its ensuring respect among staff, DEI, or otherwise. CarMax has very competitive salaries when compared to other dealerships, and it shocks me to see how almost all other places drastically low ball their employees when it comes to pay. CarMax sees the value in its technicians and ensures they're treated properly and paid well.

Cons

The work is very repetitive and monotonous at times. You will do the same task, over and over again, with little to no variance. If you like this type of work, however, this may not be a con at all for you.

Explore other reviews about CarMax

5.0
Mar 31, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Everything is great I love how it is ran

Cons

Everything is great the way it is

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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