Business Details
18 Years
experience
Trusted Used Car Dealers in Carlisle
At Carwhinley Cars, we have built a strong reputation for providing quality, reliable vehicles with over 50 years of combined experience in the motor trade. Our approach focuses on thorough vehicle inspections, comprehensive servicing, and MOT testing through trusted independent centres, ensuring every car meets our exacting standards. We specialise in handpicked, locally sourced vehicles from reputable main dealers across Cumbria and the Borders, offering both private and trade customers a selection of well-maintained used cars. Each vehicle comes with a 6-month nationwide warranty through Autoprotect, a partner we have worked with for over 15 years, and we provide 12-month AA Breakdown Cover as standard.Our team, including Graham and Tina Lightfoot, brings decades of industry expertise and established relationships to source quality cars, while our mechanics Scott, Jon, and Gary ensure every vehicle is prepared to the highest standard. We also offer competitive part-exchange prices and fast, hassle-free payment for vehicles up to 8 years old, reflecting our commitment to transparency, integrity, and customer satisfaction. With two locations in Carlisle and Houghton Village, we combine local knowledge with a dedication to ethical practices, making us a trusted choice for used car buyers in the region.
Services
Used car sales
Vehicle financing
Warranty coverage
MOT testing
Part-exchange services
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer 6-month nationwide warranties on all vehicles through Autoprotect.
- Our team has over 50 years of combined experience in the motor trade.
- Every car undergoes thorough servicing and MOT testing before sale.
- We provide competitive part-exchange prices and fast, hassle-free payment.
- We hold AA Dealer Promise accreditation for ethical business practices.
Associations and certifications
- AA Car Standards
What people say
Excellent service
Nothing was too much trouble
Immaculate preparation
Competitive part-exchange rates
AA Breakdown Cover included
Services
Used Car Sales
We offer a curated selection of handpicked, locally sourced used cars from reputable dealers and private sellers. Every vehicle undergoes rigorous inspection, servicing, and MOT testing to ensure reliability and safety. Our inventory includes a diverse range of makes and models, from compact hatchbacks to luxury SUVs, catering to various budgets and preferences while maintaining transparency in pricing and condition.
Vehicle Financing
We provide tailored financing options through partnerships with trusted credit providers, including competitive APR rates and flexible repayment terms. Our finance team assists customers in securing approval for purchases, with clear explanations of offers and no hidden fees. We ensure transparency in financial arrangements, helping buyers find affordable solutions for their chosen vehicles.
Warranty Coverage
Every eligible vehicle comes with a 6-month Gold Standard warranty from Autoprotect, covering mechanical and electrical components. Extended coverage options are available at competitive rates, offering additional peace of mind. Our partnership with Autoprotect ensures reliable claims handling and nationwide service, reinforcing our commitment to long-term customer satisfaction.
MOT Testing
We conduct MOT tests through two trusted independent centres, addressing advisories and necessary repairs before vehicle handover. Our preparation process includes fixing minor issues like advisories and ensuring compliance with safety standards, giving customers confidence in their car's roadworthiness and reducing future maintenance concerns.
Part-Exchange Services
We offer competitive valuations for part-exchange vehicles up to 8 years old, with fast and hassle-free transactions. Our process ensures fair pricing based on market value and condition, providing immediate payment and simplifying the transition to a new vehicle. This service reflects our commitment to convenience and transparency in customer interactions.
People
Graham Lightfoot
Director
With over 50 years of combined experience in the motor trade, Graham co-founded Carwhinley Cars in 2008. He oversees vehicle sourcing and operations, maintaining ethical standards and customer trust through transparent dealings and quality assurance.
Tina Lightfoot
Director
Tina co-founded Carwhinley Cars with Graham, managing administrative operations and stock sourcing. Her industry expertise and commitment to customer service have been instrumental in building the company's reputation for reliability and integrity.
Fiona
Sales Manager
Fiona leads the Houghton sales site, guiding customers through vehicle selection and finance options. Known for her friendly and knowledgeable approach, she ensures a seamless buying experience tailored to individual needs.
Scott
Mechanic
Scott handles mechanical work at the Harker site, ensuring all vehicles meet Carwhinley's high preparation standards. His attention to detail and technical expertise contribute to the dealership's reputation for reliable, well-maintained cars.
Jon
Mechanic
Jon works alongside Scott at Harker, providing expert mechanical services and pre-sale vehicle checks. His dedication to quality ensures every car sold meets the company's rigorous safety and performance criteria.
Questions
What warranties do you offer on used cars?
All eligible vehicles come with a 6-month Autoprotect warranty covering mechanical and electrical components, with options to extend coverage.
Can I part-exchange my current vehicle?
Yes, we offer competitive valuations for part-exchange vehicles up to 8 years old with fast, hassle-free transactions.
Do you provide financing options?
We work with trusted credit providers to offer tailored financing solutions, including competitive APR rates and flexible terms.
Are your cars MOT tested?
Yes, every vehicle undergoes MOT testing through independent centres, with advisories addressed before handover.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Cumbria, the Borders, and surrounding regions from our Carlisle and Houghton locations.
Can I buy a car remotely?
Yes, we facilitate remote purchases with detailed vehicle inspections, transparent documentation, and delivery options.
Reviews (5)
Reverend Jon Lawson
Dec 09, 2021
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Absolutely fantastic, Graham and his team are an absolute pleasure to deal with, completely open and honest about the cars he sells, always a plentiful stock of quality cars. You are really looked after you as a customer, Graham brought my selected car for me to view, even though I live over 30 miles away, then made sure everything was just the way it should be. Will definitely use again, highly recommended to all! If only all car sales were as good as Carwhinley.
Andy Martin
Oct 16, 2021
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Absolutely can’t fault Graham and the team Called in Monday to see what they had in stock, nothing was too much trouble looked at several different cars with no pressure, settled on a lovely facelift Vw Tiguan for my partner. 4th car in 5 years just collected yesterday
Emma Jayne Conley
May 06, 2021
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Always deal with Graham and the lads fantastic service nothings ever too much trouble for any of them Always do their best to get you your preferred car and best deals After sales is also great Highly recommend Thanks you
Harry Visscher
Jan 16, 2019
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Hi Carwhinley, Like your reviews. Did you know that Alpha powder coaters and alloy refurbishments also Pick up and drop off
Banks Are Not Your Friends
Aug 05, 2017
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Cheap and cheerful cars that have got a few years left in them, always at a sensible price. I've bought my last 2 cars from here.
