Top 10 Car Dealerships in Iowa - Find Your Dream Car

Summary of the Article:

• Introduction to car shopping in Iowa.

• Criteria used to select the top dealerships.

• Detailed list of the top 10 car dealerships in Iowa.

• Factors to consider when choosing a dealership.

• Iowa-specific considerations for vehicle purchases.

• Tips for getting the best deals at car dealerships.

• Conclusion

• FAQs related to car buying in Iowa.

Finding Your Perfect Car in Iowa

Iowa may be known for its farmlands and rural landscapes, but when it comes to car shopping, the state is anything but limited. Whether you're navigating city streets in Des Moines or driving along scenic highways, having the right vehicle can make all the difference. In this guide, we've rounded up the top 10 car dealerships in Iowa to help you find the perfect car for your needs—whether you're looking for something brand new, certified pre-owned, or a budget-friendly used vehicle.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Dealerships in Iowa

When evaluating dealerships across the state, several important factors come into play. Whether you're buying your first car or upgrading your current one, it's crucial to know what makes a dealership stand out. Here's what we considered in our ranking:

• Customer Reviews and Ratings: We looked at dealership ratings from actual customers to ensure a positive buying experience.

• Inventory Variety: A good dealership offers a diverse range of vehicles, including new, used, and certified pre-owned models.

• Financing Options: Financing is key to making a car purchase manageable. We prioritized dealerships that offer flexible financing, including options for customers with less-than-perfect credit.

• Customer Service and Support: How well does the dealership treat its customers? We considered service reputation, sales processes, and after-sales service.

• Special Programs and Offers: Many dealerships provide additional perks like loyalty programs, trade-in deals, and warranties.

With these factors in mind, we present the top 10 car dealerships in Iowa.

Top 10 Car Dealerships in Iowa

1. Karl Chevrolet (Ankeny)

• Location: Ankeny, IA

• Specialty: New and pre-owned Chevrolets.

• What Stands Out: Known for its vast selection of vehicles and its stellar customer service, Karl Chevrolet offers a one-stop solution for buyers looking for everything from SUVs to trucks. With an impressive inventory of both new and pre-owned Chevrolets, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs.

• Financing: They offer flexible financing, including special deals for first-time buyers and people with less-than-ideal credit.

• After-Sales Service: Top-tier service department for all maintenance and repairs.

2. Willis Automotive (Clive)

• Location: Clive, IA

• Specialty: Luxury and high-end vehicles, including brands like Lexus, BMW, and Cadillac.

• What Stands Out: If you’re looking for luxury, Willis Automotive is the place to go. Their customer service is highly rated, and they offer a wide range of high-end vehicles. The dealership is also known for its impressive financing options on premium cars.

• Financing: Competitive financing tailored to luxury vehicle buyers.

• After-Sales Service: Extensive service packages, including luxury car maintenance and detailing services.

3. Shottenkirk Chevrolet (Waukee)

• Location: Waukee, IA

• Specialty: Chevrolet vehicles, both new and used.

• What Stands Out: Shottenkirk Chevrolet has a strong reputation for excellent service and a wide range of Chevrolet vehicles. It’s a great option for those who prefer a dealership with a focus on a specific brand.

• Financing: Flexible financing solutions, including lease options.

• After-Sales Service: Comprehensive warranties and a robust service department.

4. Toyota of Des Moines (Grimes)

• Location: Grimes, IA

• Specialty: New and certified pre-owned Toyotas.

• What Stands Out: Toyota of Des Moines offers an exceptional selection of both new and certified pre-owned Toyotas. With a friendly sales team and a customer-first approach, it’s a top pick for Toyota enthusiasts.

• Financing: Financing options are available for all buyers, including those with challenged credit.

• After-Sales Service: Their service center is highly rated, particularly for Toyota maintenance and repairs.

5. Community Honda (Cedar Falls)

• Location: Cedar Falls, IA

• Specialty: New and used Hondas.

• What Stands Out: Known for its customer service and a wide variety of Honda vehicles, Community Honda has made a name for itself as a go-to for reliable cars. With a large selection of sedans, SUVs, and hybrids, you’ll find exactly what you need.

• Financing: Comprehensive financing options, including leases and payment plans for various budgets.

• After-Sales Service: Full-service department specializing in Honda repairs and routine maintenance.

6. McGrath Auto (Cedar Rapids)

• Location: Cedar Rapids, IA

• Specialty: A large inventory of both new and pre-owned vehicles, including Ford, Chevy, and more.

• What Stands Out: McGrath Auto has one of the largest inventories in Iowa, making it a top choice for buyers looking for both variety and quality. Their customer service and commitment to finding the right vehicle for each customer stand out.

• Financing: Offers a variety of financing options for buyers with different credit backgrounds.

• After-Sales Service: High-quality repair services and extended warranty options.

7. Bob Brown Buick GMC (Ankeny)

• Location: Ankeny, IA

• Specialty: New and certified pre-owned Buick and GMC vehicles.

• What Stands Out: Bob Brown Buick GMC offers excellent customer service and a strong inventory of both luxury and commercial vehicles. Known for its transparent sales process, this dealership makes it easy to find your perfect Buick or GMC.

• Financing: Customizable financing options, including military discounts and first-time buyer programs.

• After-Sales Service: A comprehensive service department offering everything from oil changes to major repairs.

8. Rydell Chevrolet (Waterloo)

• Location: Waterloo, IA

• Specialty: Chevrolet vehicles, new and used.

• What Stands Out: Rydell Chevrolet is known for its competitive pricing and wide selection of Chevrolet vehicles. Whether you’re in the market for a Silverado or a Malibu, Rydell’s team is ready to assist.

• Financing: Various financing options, including credit union partnerships.

• After-Sales Service: Offers maintenance packages and an on-site parts department.

9. Smart Honda (Des Moines)

• Location: Des Moines, IA

• Specialty: New and used Honda vehicles.

• What Stands Out: Smart Honda stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction and a large inventory of both new and pre-owned Hondas. It’s a top choice for buyers seeking a reliable vehicle and great customer service.

• Financing: Flexible financing plans, including great offers for recent graduates and those with low credit scores.

• After-Sales Service: Known for its efficient and customer-friendly service department.

10. Dave Wright Nissan Subaru (Hiawatha)

• Location: Hiawatha, IA

• Specialty: Nissan and Subaru vehicles.

• What Stands Out: This dealership specializes in Nissan and Subaru, offering a large selection of both brands. With a focus on family-friendly and fuel-efficient vehicles, it’s perfect for environmentally-conscious buyers.

• Financing: Great leasing options and competitive loan rates.

• After-Sales Service: Excellent service department that offers comprehensive vehicle care.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dealership

Buying a car is a big decision, and choosing the right dealership can make the process smoother. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a dealership in Iowa:

• Location: The proximity of the dealership to your home or work can save time, especially when it comes to routine maintenance visits.

• Inventory: Look for a dealership that offers a variety of options in terms of model, make, and price range. This gives you more flexibility to find a car that suits your needs and budget.

• Financing: Check the dealership’s financing options. Some dealerships are more accommodating when it comes to working with bad credit or offering special financing deals.

• After-Sales Support: Consider the dealership's service department. A great warranty or maintenance package can add significant value to your purchase.

• Reputation: Look for customer reviews and ratings online. A dealership with consistently high ratings is more likely to provide a positive experience.

Iowa-Specific Considerations for Vehicle Purchases

Iowa’s unique mix of rural roads, small towns, and urban areas means your car needs to be versatile. When shopping for a vehicle, keep these Iowa-specific factors in mind:

• Weather Conditions: Iowa experiences a range of weather conditions, from hot summers to freezing, snow-laden winters. This means that having a reliable vehicle for both extreme cold and heat is crucial. All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles are especially useful during Iowa’s snowy months, particularly if you travel outside city limits.

• Fuel Efficiency: With long stretches of rural highways, fuel-efficient vehicles can help reduce the cost of travel. Whether you’re driving between Des Moines and Cedar Rapids or making a trip through Iowa’s smaller towns, choosing a car with good gas mileage will save you money over time.

• Durability for Rural Roads: If you live in a rural part of the state, you may encounter gravel roads and uneven terrain. Consider trucks, SUVs, or sturdy sedans that can handle these types of road conditions.

• Vehicle Versatility: Many Iowans require vehicles that can perform double-duty, from commuting to work during the week to hauling materials for the farm on weekends. A reliable, multi-purpose vehicle like a truck or crossover can meet these diverse needs.

How to Get the Best Deal in Iowa

Buying a car is a significant investment, but you can make it more affordable with a few strategic moves. Here are some key tips to help you get the best deal at Iowa car dealerships:

• Timing Is Everything: Car dealerships often offer promotions during key times of the year. For example, year-end sales (around December) are common when dealerships are looking to make room for next year’s models. You may also find excellent deals during holiday sales events like Memorial Day, 4th of July, or Labor Day.

• Be Prepared to Negotiate: Don’t hesitate to negotiate the price. Salespeople expect this and are often willing to lower the price or offer extras like free servicing or extended warranties.

• Check Online Listings and Promotions: Many dealerships have online inventories where they list promotions, rebates, and discounted vehicles. Always check their website or call ahead to see if any deals are currently available.

• Consider Trade-Ins: If you have an old car, consider trading it in to lower the cost of your new vehicle. Make sure to do some research on your car’s trade-in value before heading to the dealership to ensure you get a fair price.

• Pre-Approved Financing: It can be beneficial to secure financing through your bank or credit union before heading to the dealership. This gives you more leverage when negotiating financing options with the dealer.

• Use a Car Shipping Service: If you find a great deal on a car at a dealership that’s not near your home, consider using a car shipping service. AmeriFreight, for example, can safely transport your vehicle across Iowa or even from out of state, ensuring that you get the car you want without the hassle of a long road trip.

Find Your Dream Car at the Right Iowa Dealership

Buying a car is one of the most important financial decisions you'll make, so it's essential to choose a dealership that offers the right mix of quality, customer service, and financing options. Iowa is home to a wide range of top-rated dealerships, whether you're looking for a brand-new luxury vehicle, a reliable family sedan, or a durable work truck.

Each dealership mentioned in this article has its unique strengths, so whether you’re in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, or any other part of the state, you can confidently head to one of these dealerships to find the car of your dreams.

And remember, if you find your perfect vehicle at a dealership that’s far from your home, consider using AmeriFreight’s trusted car shipping service. Getting a free quote is easy, and AmeriFreight will ensure your new car arrives at your doorstep safely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the Best Time to Buy a Car in Iowa?

• The best time to buy a car in Iowa is typically during the end of the year (November and December), when dealerships offer clearance sales on current year models to make space for new inventory. Major holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day also bring great promotions.

2. Should I Buy a New or Used Car?

• This depends on your budget and needs. A new car offers the latest technology, warranties, and reliability but comes with a higher price tag. Used cars, especially certified pre-owned vehicles, are more affordable and often come with extended warranties.

3. How Can I Finance a Vehicle with Bad Credit in Iowa?

• Many Iowa dealerships offer financing options for buyers with bad credit. It’s important to explore special financing programs offered by certain dealers, or secure pre-approved financing through credit unions that work with people rebuilding their credit.

4. What’s the Difference Between Certified Pre-Owned and Used Vehicles?

• A certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle has been inspected and refurbished by the dealership or manufacturer and comes with a limited warranty. Standard used cars are sold as-is, but they are often more affordable than CPO vehicles.

5. Do Iowa Dealerships Offer Extended Warranties?

• Yes, many Iowa dealerships offer extended warranties on new and used vehicles. These warranties can cover repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty expires, giving you added peace of mind.

This comprehensive guide should help you make an informed decision on where to buy your next vehicle in Iowa. Happy car shopping!