Buying a car is a huge decision. It’s not just about picking a color or a fast test drive. The dealership you pick can shape your complete experience. A good dealer makes it easy. A bad one can leave you out of pocket, stressed and with regret. Kansas City boasts a number of reliable dealerships for drivers seeking new and used cars. Others focus on family SUVs. Some have sports cars, trucks or used cars that won’t break the bank. The trick is to locate one that meets your demands. Let’s first take a look at some of the best car dealerships in Kansas City and why they are the best.
Why Your Dealership Choice Is Important
A dealership sells more than vehicles. It can aid with financing, trade-ins, warranties and future service. A good dealer will follow you long after you leave the lot. You want pricing transparency, too. Nobody wants to get smacked with unanticipated costs at the last minute. A good dealer will review every charge with you before you sign. Good customer service is also important. Buying a car should be a fun experience, not something you speed through.
Kansas City’s Best Car Dealerships
Kansas City has many reputable dealerships across brands.
Hendrick Chevrolet Shawnee Mission
The store is noted for its wide selection of new and certified pre-owned Chevrolet cars. Buyers generally compliment its courteous sales team and solid service department. If you’re shopping for a Silverado, Tahoe or Equinox, this is a place to look.
Legends Toyota
Toyota has a solid reputation for dependability. Toyota stocks popular models such as the Camry, Corolla, Tacoma and RAV4. Many purchasers also like its certified used vehicle program, with extra inspections and warranty coverage.
Oakes Kia
Kia has been a choice for drivers who want value without sacrificing modern features. At Oakes Kia, we have cars that include high-tech safety features, touch screen displays and extensive warranty options. It is generally where families begin their search.
Bob Allen, Ford
Truck shoppers know the Ford F-150 remains one of America’s top trucks. Bob Allen Ford carries a massive inventory of Ford sedans, SUVs, and commercial vehicles. The dealership has various financing options that work for many buyers.
Toyota molle
Molle Toyota has been serving drivers in Kansas City for many years. Its reputation derives from fair customer service, reliable maintenance and a good assortment of certified pre-owned vehicles. Repeat customers are very common here and that typically speaks volumes.
Dahmer Buick GMC of Cable
Looking for a heavy-duty truck or a large SUV? Cable Dahmer Buick GMC has GMC Sierra pickups and Buick SUVs that are geared towards comfort and family travel.
New or Used? Both Have Their Place
Many customers believe a new vehicle is always better. Not always. Buying a used vehicle can save you thousands of dollars, and many of the same amenities are available. Certified pre-owned vehicles undergo intense inspections before they hit the lot. But new automobiles come with complete factory warranties and the latest safety technology. The proper solution depends on your budget and your driving habits.
Financing doesn’t have to be difficult
So here’s the thing. Many purchasers simply see the monthly payment. That’s not right. Notice:
- Total purchasing cost
- Interest rate
- Loan term
- Initial deposit
- Other dealer fees
A lower monthly payment can cost you more in the long run if the loan spans several more years. Being pre-approved through your bank or credit union can also provide you greater leverage in your negotiations.
Thinking of trading in?
Trading in your existing vehicle saves time. But do a little homework first. Before you visit the dealership, check the worth of your car using tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. That will give you a pretty good estimate of what your automobile is worth. If you have maintenance records, bring them. A clean service history can help justify your asking price. The little things count. A clean car, inside and out, gives a better first impression.
Don’t miss the test drive
You know what? Some purchasers spend more time picking a phone than they do test-driving a car. Drive the Car on City Street and Highways. Listen for weird sounds. Check for visibility. Try to park. Test the brakes. Use the infotainment. Sit in the back seat if your family will be using it frequently. Small things become enormous things after a few years of ownership.
Read Every Paper Before You Sign
When purchasing a vehicle, you’ll need a few paperwork. Don’t rush. If something is confusing, please ask questions. Watch out for add-on products like extended warranties, paint protection, wheel coverage or gap insurance. Some buyers do seek these services. Others don’t. You should know exactly what you’re buying. Don’t feel like you have to sign right now.
After-Sale Service Is Important Too
A dealership connection doesn’t stop when you drive off with the keys. Routine maintenance helps your car run smoothly. Kansas City dealers offer many:
- Oil change service
- Tire rotation
- Brake repairs
- Repair at factory
- Work recall
- Original replacement parts
Ownership is so much easier when you have a reliable service center.
Finding the Right Match
Every buyer’s wants are different. Larger families might require three rows of seats. A college student may like good fuel economy. He probably needs to be towed, someone with a camper. Best Dealership Sells Second, Listens First That’s typically a clue you’ve discovered the proper place.
Closing Thoughts
Kansas City has several great dealerships with great reputations and extensive vehicle selections. If you’re in the market for a reliable commuting vehicle, family SUV or workhorse truck, spend some time comparing inventories, finance, customer reviews and service departments to help down your choices. Purchasing a vehicle is not something to jump into, it should seem like a wise decision. Visit more than one dealer, ask questions, compare deals, and trust your gut. A little investment now can save money and problems for years.
FAQ
1. What is the greatest used automobile dealership in Kansas City?
There are lots of good secondhand cars if you go to a dealership. Certified pre-owned programs at Toyota, Chevrolet, Ford and Kia dealerships are popular because the vehicles are thoroughly inspected and typically come with warranty coverage.
2. Should I obtain finance pre-approved before I go to a dealership?
Yes. Getting pre-approved by a bank or credit union provides you an idea of your budget and more confidence when evaluating dealership financing offers.
3. What do I need to bring to buy a car?
Bring your driver’s license, proof of insurance, proof of income if financing, your trade-in title or loan details if applicable, and any pre-approval documentation from your lender.
4. Should I buy a certified pre-owned vehicle?
Yes, for many buyers. Certified pre-owned cars frequently undergo rigorous examinations and can often be covered by extended warranty coverage, providing additional peace of mind above a traditional used automobile.
5. Can you negotiate price at a dealership?
Yes. Most dealers are open to discussing pricing, trade-in values, financing arrangements and dealer-added products. Do some research into automobile prices before you go to offer yourself a better chance of negotiating.
