Reputable Dealerships in the Central Texas Region

2015-08-31T07:42:36-04:00

My wife and I are shopping around for a second vehicle, but all the reviews I've read on the dealerships within Killeen/Temple have been horrible. One of the first things I was taught when I got to Fort Riley back in the day was don't trust dealerships close to post. Anyone know of any reputable dealerships that won't pull anything schisty in the area?

Response by SPC John Van Valkenburgh made Aug 31 at 2015 7:51 AM

2015-08-31T07:51:23-04:00

I've always had good experiences at the dodge dealership is georgetown

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2015 8:08 AM

2015-08-31T08:08:17-04:00

My best recommendation is to get a loan approved before you begin shopping. Loan approval insures your dealer will work within your limits because he wants your business. I bought both of my last cars here in Killeen. The one I had before I was approved through USAA, this one I was approved through Navy Federal. The trick is to go in there with money (your loan approval) in hand.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2015 8:08 AM

2015-08-31T08:08:45-04:00

Make your purchase in round rock or georgetown. I don't know specific dealership, but they are not predatory with military.

Response by SGT Jesse Walton made Aug 31 at 2015 8:10 AM

2015-08-31T08:10:39-04:00

I would shop around the Austin Area, first before making a hasty decision. The only one I would recommend is Cleo Bay Honda, no issues with them.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2015 8:22 AM

2015-08-31T08:22:47-04:00

I have to say Austin. All the dealerships are military friendly. But like everyone else said get you loan approved first then go and shop. Have all your facts up front. Good luck and enjoy you new car (soon).

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2015 8:23 AM

2015-08-31T08:23:29-04:00

I know a few people will disagree with me. But I have purchased three different vehicles from automatic ford. One used truck about 8 years ago, a new truck in 09 and then my wife's new car a few months ago. The first two I had worse then good credit and they worked with me. The last one I had a pre-approval from USAA so it went real easy. My last two vehicles from there were with the same salesman. So he knew us and didn't try anything. They are a few salesman there that will try are push a car on you. I have talked to them in passing while waiting on services from them. If you wanna try them talk to a older gentleman named William. He will take care of you. Hopes this helps.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2015 8:38 AM

2015-08-31T08:38:51-04:00

I've never had any issues with All American Chevrolet (formerly Connell). You should research the vehicle online and get a pre-approval before going anywhere.

Response by CW2 Thomas Martin made Aug 31 at 2015 8:40 AM

2015-08-31T08:40:03-04:00

If you are a USA member they have a car buying service. They have several ways to help out. They have recommend car dealerships that they have vetted. You can also tell them what car you want and they will personally do the negotiations for you. Always worth a call to them or looking up their service on their website. Plus they will pre-approved you for a car loan to help the overall process. Just another option for you to have in this decision.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 31 at 2015 10:32 AM

2015-08-31T10:32:32-04:00

A week ago, I felt just like you. I have a bad habit and bought my 34 and 35 new car in 21 years. I bought from automax but almost didn't. Dealerships around here target. Patriot GMC treated me great and I just bought those two from killeen automax. I spoke to Grady, the Internet sales. He will give you the best numbers before you even talk to a salesman. Have the numbers before is great for negotiations. Mention my name, since I just bought last week. He said he would do the same for soldier referrals. Good luck. Grady Selby - cell. [login to see]
Office [login to see]

Response by SGT George Romiti made Aug 31 at 2015 10:45 AM

2015-08-31T10:45:22-04:00

Georgetown Mac Haik Dodge! Bunch of rebates and military discount..

Response by SrA Zachary Bolling made Aug 31 at 2015 10:50 AM

2015-08-31T10:50:20-04:00

What kind of vehicle are you looking for? I am a manager at a dealership in Florida but can help you make the right purchase.

Response by SGT Bryan Marshall made Aug 31 at 2015 3:52 PM

2015-08-31T15:52:43-04:00

Do NOT buy from Killeen Auto Sales (they've done several service members wrong, myself included) Temple/Waco area isn't bad

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2015 12:57 PM

2015-09-01T12:57:50-04:00

Check out 2nd chance auto finance [login to see] ) and ask for Jon. Tell him Deadra and Mike Strawn recommended you go to him. My wife has been in the car business since she was 18 and Jon is a friend of ours. I wil call him now and drop you name so he will be looking for you. If he doesn't have what you want he will find it.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2015 1:30 PM

2015-09-01T13:30:30-04:00

Leif Johnson ford down in Austin was awesome to work with and if you use true car you can get an even better deal.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2015 2:17 PM

2015-09-01T14:17:19-04:00

I went up to Granbury to get my car at Durant Toyota. Several hours away from Ft. Hood. Not predators.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 1 at 2015 3:24 PM

2015-09-01T15:24:35-04:00

Johnson Brothers Ford in Temple. Ask for Jonathan Fox and tell him I sent you! He gave us a fair deal and was honest.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 2 at 2015 3:56 PM

2015-09-02T15:56:28-04:00

Call USAA they can give some names and give you cash towards your car.

Response by SGT Scott Bailey made Sep 26 at 2015 12:02 PM

2015-09-26T12:02:28-04:00

You probably won't find a dealer anywhere that won't try to take you for all they can. But I can get you in touch with someone who will give you personal attention and a very decent deal. Go to Automax in Killeen. Go to the pre-owned side and ask for Jesse Garcia. He is the manager and good friend of mine. Tell him Scott Bailey sent you. If you are looking for a new vehicle, he can help with that too. His brother in law actually owns Automax. But honestly, it's nearly impossible to find a completely honest dealer, unless you've been a long time repeat customer with excellent credit. Now, if your credit is excellent, you can control that deal. Don't buy additional things like an extended warranty. If you put all the money you pay for that in the bank, you will have more than enough for any repair. Also, look for vehicles that have a good warranty. Ford is 36K bumper to bumper and 60K for the drive train. I have bought my second Ford Fusion and Ford has made a great comeback. The ONLY maintenance required is oil change, tire rotation every 7500 miles. And that is for the life of the vehicle. If I can be of anymore assistance, let me know. I have lived here for 32 years so I know the dealers reputations here. Automax has a good reputation overall.