Fort Worth, Texas — The Dallas-Ft. Worth Metroplex’s first J. D. Byrider used-car dealership offers credit-challenged residents a chance to improve their ratings by buying and paying-off a carefully reconditioned vehicle. Byrider is the only used-car franchise to combine on-site financing with an on-site service department dedicated to its customers. The new store is one of four locations the Tuscaloosa, Alabama-based owners intend to open over the next five years.

“Within about two years, we anticipate that 150 customers will be walking through our doors each month,” said Mike Locklear, general manager of the new dealership. “To help them make an informed purchase that fits their budget and lifestyle, and to help them maintain their vehicle, we’ve hired 14 financial consultants and service technicians. Those numbers will grow as we do.”

“Mike spent three years encouraging me to examine the J.D. Byrider franchise opportunity — once I did, I never looked back,” said Steve Locklear, president of the local store. “This will be our second store and we have plans to open several more. There just is no similar opportunity out there.”

The Locklears also own two new-car stores. They opened their first Byrider dealership, in Tuscaloosa, in August 2004.

“With subprime lenders having largely vanished, and one of three Americans unable to qualify for conventional credit anywhere, we’re happy to offer on-site financing to Dallas-Ft. Worth residents,” said Steve Wedding, Byrider’s president of franchising. “Often, it’s the only way our customers are able to buy a reliable car for getting to work and advancing their lives.”