Looking to purchase a new car? Here are 10 of our favorite Auto Dealerships in the U.S.!
Sure, it's exciting and fun to be behind the wheel of a new ride. And then there's that "new car smell," that's always a bonus (plus the fact that your new car isn't trashed by gum wrappers, crumbs and fast-food receipts under the seat).
But despite the anticipation, buying a new car has its stressors. The shopping. The financing. The dealing-with-a-salesman bit.
The good new is that these days, the amount of information on the internet has taken some of the guesswork out of car buying and can make you feel more informed and prepared when you walk in the showroom. And it works both ways: bad internet reviews on a dealership can drive business away in less time than it takes to put the top down.
Know that there are plenty of auto dealers that value your business and work hard to both make you a customer - and keep you. Here are ten we've found that have gotten high marks.
1. AUTONATION (National)
It's the country's biggest publicly-owned dealership, with something in the range of 250 stores around America. The automotive press describes them as the "McDonald's" of auto groups, being able to serve up almost any make or model, in almost any price range.
2. BERLIN CITY HONDA OF PORTLAND, SOUTH PORTLAND, ME
They offer pre-discounted pricing, meaning that they base their prices on local market value - so you can skip a lot of the research. They'll even deliver the paperwork (and your new car) right to your door. If you hate it (up to 200 miles), they'll take it back - no questions asked.
3. SCHUMACHER CHEVROLET, DENVILLE, NJ
This family-owned business has been a fixture in the area since 1929. They're recognized as providing an outstanding customer service experience for their customers.
4. JACK TAYLOR'S ALEXANDRIA TOYOTA, ALEXANDRIA, VA
They're one of a very few dealers to win Toyota's "President's Award" for 25 years in a row. Besides the ease of purchasing a car, customers rave over their rock-star service department.
5. FERMAN MOTOR CAR COMPANY, TAMPA. FL
They started way back in 1895, and has thrived by delivering stellar customer sales and service. New, used, lease - take your pick from among 14 different auto franchises.
6. EICH MOTOR COMPANY, ST. CLOUD, MN
In 1898, Alois Eich began selling gas-powered vehicles - and the company remained a family-run business for generations. Today employees have joined in on the ownership, but the reputation for outstanding deals and service has not changed.
7. AUDI BOULDER, BOULDER, CO
For several years running, this dealership has won kudos from women car buyers. But both men and women appreciate the huge inventory, fabulous customer service and a service department that won't make you grind your teeth.
8. DIEHL FORD, BELLINGHAM, WA
It ranks as one of the oldest dealerships in America (1908) - and considering the ups and downs of the auto industry in that time, their survival is a testament to good business practices.
9. AUDI PALO ALTO, PALO ALTO, CA
Audi drivers are serious "auto-philes" - and this dealership services their needs, top to bottom. Not only do they have one of the biggest inventories of new and used models, they offer an array of services to further customize your precious ride. It also was awarded the Women's Choice Award.
10. NORMANDIN CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE RAM, SAN JOSE, CA
They've been selling cars since 1906 - and even keep a few antique vehicles on the premises. In this day and age, they keep their reputation on point with an amazing inventory and customer service that goes on long after the car has been purchased and driven off the lot.