I understand the frustration and fear people have for buying a car. It is that fear that usually works against them. They assume that the dealership is the enemy and they have to be strong firm and unyielding from beginning to end. If you gave this dealership one star, that is your problem. And you did not even go through the motion of starting negotiation, how can you honestly say that this is the rating they deserve? I can't imagine what you wrote in your emails, but I see no reason for the staff here to be rude to you because they are all great people. Sorry to say this, but you don't know how to buy a car. Buying a car does not entail walking into a dealership, offering them half the value of the car, and then getting mad and saying they are "rude" because they did not sell it as such. It entails research, offering a fair price, and being able to recognize a good deal when you find one. But I don't blame you. I was fortunate enough to see my uncle walk into a dealership, walk straight to the manager's desk, refuse a test drive, make him laugh, and commit him to selling a car at well below invoice (with no test drive no credit check or anything). But he knew what he was doing. He knew the market price for the car, he knew how much he could afford, and was not expecting the dealership to bridge that gap. He was just looking for the best deal he could get. And he did it with a smile. I can't say I will ever match his charisma, but I will say that I learned that friendliness, and realistic expectations will take you a long way with a dealership. Anyway, my experience was great. Kia Forte Koup, saw the car on the road, and fell in love with it. This was my nearest Kia dealership (surprised there aren't more with how well Kia is doing). I called, and asked if the vehicle was there and what they had available. They did the normal shpeal of inviting me to come to the dealership. I made an appointment, test drove the car (and because I had already done my research) offered to purchase the vehicle at just slightly below the true market value. They accepted, offered me Gap Insurance (I took it) and and Extended Warranty (did not take that because I never use warranties). They then did a thorough presentation of the vehicle, the warranty coverage, the service department and I was off on my merry day. A very happy customer. What I really like about this dealership, is that even though they are pretty big, they are still very "family oriented". I do love buying local to help my city. And they understand that and are friendly, funny and very helpful (I highly recommend Ash Marlon and Fuzzie(?)). Give them a chance, you won't be disappointed. read more

Seems as though I should have read all the reviews about this place before we went there and avoided "Chuck". My husband and I went in to test drive a Sedona....it was our first stop. We had been looking at a couple of options for either a minivan or a SUV. We read the reviews about the Sedona and it seemed like the minivan for us. But everyone knows that before you purchase a car you must look at it and test drive it. We'd explained to him our credit situation and made it clear we weren't going to run our credit until we found the car we wanted. Apparently Chuck wasn't happy with this answer. He said we were doing it all backwards and that we should have gotten financed first before we started looking. I don't know anyone in their right mind who would want to run their credit first before they even know if they want the car. He went on about not wanting to waste our time.....which he really was referring to himself. He actually got angry at us for apparently wasting his time. I wish I could have recorded his little speach he gave us.....it was almost comical about how he took the time to show us a few of their cars and walked us around the lot yeda yeda....pulled him away from his desk and on and on. I don't think this man understands that he's in sales and not every one has perfect credit. He probably doesn't have good credit himself. Anyway he didn't offer us a business card which showed us that he didn't want us back. I called the Sales Manager "George" later that day to express my disappointment. He apologized and said he would talk to Chuck, but I was a little surprised he didn't ask ask us back. Normally a manager would ask, "What can we do to win back your business"....but nothing just a thank you and good bye. Anyway if you plan to go here watch out for "Chuck". And if you don't believe me his name comes up in plenty of other bad reviews. MANAGER....no need to write back to apologize and ask me to call you because, you had that chance and you blew it! read more

I recently purchased a new 2012 Kia Soul from 1st Kia in Simi Valley. I wish to share the excellent experience of that with any and all who might be looking for a reasonably priced, high quality car and a fantastic dealership. I have so far in my life leased or purchased about 15 cars and this is the only dealership that I have motivated to offer feedback. The atmosphere in the dealership was one the best, if not the best I have ever experienced. It was a low-key, comfortable, clean and quite a friendly place to buy a car. I was able to make a deal that was reasonable, fair and much to my liking. It did not take overly long, although one should always expect to spend a couple of hours or so at the dealership when buying a new car. The finance department was very effiecient and once the deal was done, the paperwork and signing process was highly professional and as streamlined as possible. I would like to especially single out and thank effusively Mr. Shea Young, my sales pro who not only provided excellent service but had a thorough knowledge of the entire product line and was able to answer all my questions, and worked dilligently to meet my needs during the sales process. Not that anyone else there is less capable but I highly recommend Mr. Young to everyone. I've had the car about 5 - 6 months and am just as happy today as I was the day bought it. The car is sharp, sporty, functional, good on gas, and comes with an impressive array of features all at a very modest price. The service department where I returned to have the clear coat finish protecant applied, was super service oriented and I was in and out of there much sooner than estimated. So far, I've received many nice comments about the style and appearance of the car, along with inquiries about where I got it. I am only too happy to share. Thanks again to 1st Kia and Mr. Shea Young, I would very pleased if I am able to return there in the future. Sincerely, Richard L. read more

My experience at Simi KIA was the best experience I have ever had buying a car at a dealership. There was no pressure and genuine concern for getting us the right vehicle for our needs. Our salesman "Marlon" was the best, friendliest, and none pressure salesman I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I initially told him I was not in the market to buy, I was only looking. He at no time tried to pressure us and he had a genuine concern to match us up with the right vehicle for our needs. He told us "lets find you the right car, and when your ready to buy I will be here". He treated us so well and gave us such a good deal on the 2014 KIA Sorento that we bought the SUV that night. He was so patient and answered all our questions. He was so nice, and we were there so late that my wife bought him dinner. We sat at his desk eating dinner and completing all the paperwork. It was a very easy and most pleasurable experience. After the sale was complete the KIA dealership closed. Malon on his own time stayed over 2 hours to show us and walk us through all the computer features of the car, and there was a lot. He gave us his phone number and told us to call anytime we needed help or had a question about the car. Marlon called us a week after the sale to see how we were doing and if we had any new questions about our car. The KIA Sorento we bought is an awesome car. read more

I was involved in a hit and run accident and my brand new car was totalled. I had a really bad and disappointing experience with the dealer that I got my car from that I didn't really want to deal with that again. My son had gotten a used Kia Rio from First Kia and I knew a guy over there that I trusted so I thought, what the heck! Marlon over at First Kia was amazing. I knew he wouldn't lie to me just to get me in a car like past dealers. Marlon is someone I could trust and he knew what I would like, compared to my old 'new' car that was totalled. The very first car that Marlon showed me I fell in love with and bought it. Marlon answered every question I had and even offered more information that I didn't even knew I needed to know. When I went inside to finance the car my experience was beyond amazing. Everyone there tried their best to get me the best deal possible. I got an awesome deal and my payments are even lower than before. I would recommend anyone to go see Marlon at First Kia. When it comes time to my mother getting a new car, we are definately going to come back here to deal with Marlon. Thank you Marlon for making a horrible situation with my totalled car seem minor next to the great deal you got me. This is the way a buying experience should be when your shopping for a new car. I will be back!!! read more

I have went to Simi Valley 1st Kia to purchase a car asI recevied a referal. I have went in this morning and Daniel has come out to help me. He approached me and was not pushy at all and just asked "how can I help you". I told him my situation and he than stated he can take care of me. He was very patient and friendly with me, I felt in place with no pressure. I have found a car that I wanted to purchase so Daniel took me inside the facility to proceed with the purchase. The staff where all very friendly, I loved the environment. I wanted numbers before they pulled my credit, Daniel has gave me all the numbers prior, determining my credit which can change that. I loved the numbers, Daniel did not need to go back and forth to the desk because the numbers where low. I looked at another dealership and all they wanted to do is pull my credit. Daniel took care of my needs. Long story short, I have purchase a vehicile from Daniel. Johnny Kia came to thank me for my business, I felt so welcomed and knew that this is a dealsership of trust and honesty. I have had bad experience in the past with car shopping, this is the best, easiest car shopping I have ever done. Thank you First Kia, LOVE MY CAR and LOW PAYMENTS!!! read more

First off, Omar Abuzaid is the man to see! I didn't know anything about this dealership before going there on Saturday, March 29. My mother had been wanting to buy a new car for a while now, and she was dead set on a new Kia Sorento. I suggested we go to this Kia dealership because they had better prices on their new cars, and more of a selection of colors and options. I also went with her to help her out through the purchasing process as she hasn't bought a new car since 1989. She was greeted by Omar, who was very up front and very nice through the whole process. He helped her find the exact Sorento she wanted, in the color she wanted, with all of the options too. She instantly fell in love with the car. When it came to the actual talk about dollars and cents, my mom almost walked out the door. Admittedly the car was quite a bit out of her intended budget, but it was the one she wanted. I was able to work with Omar, and my mother ended up getting a great deal that she was more than comfortable with, and a car she loves to drive. To Omar and everyone that helped, thanks for putting up with my crazy mom. But more importantly thank you for making her as happy as you did. It means a lot to see her this happy. read more

Eric, our main point of contact and sales representative, was extremely helpful and knowledgeable throughout our visit to First KIA in Simi Valley. His kind, polite, and professional demeanor made our experience smooth and enjoyable. Upon arrival, we didn't have to wait or ask for assistance, he approached us and offered help within minutes. Eric was proactive and skillful without ever being pushy. He listened to all our questions, provided thoughtful answers, and presented several options to help us make an informed decision. I especially appreciated that he spent an hour outside with us under the hot sun, patiently showing and explaining every detail and feature of the vehicles. Even though we were initially just window-shopping, he remained dedicated and helpful, later spending more time with us to discuss a few options in depth. Thanks to his exceptional customer service, our decision was not rushed but well-informed. I am confident Eric gave us the best deal possible, and I'm excited to try the KIA brand for the first time. All the other team members we met were also very helpful and friendly. We left feeling truly appreciated and valued as customers. read more

This is a follow-up to a previous review because Marlon has done a wonderful job of following up to complete my experience at First Kia. When I received my registration in the mail for a car I purchased in June, it was not accompanied by the 2014 tabs. I went to my local AAA and was told the tabs were mailed out in April, which meant they went to the dealership or previous owner. I called First Kia and found out Marlon had a few days off. So I called Marlon directly and left my message. He called me back immediately and told me he would follow up with his DMV dealership contact when he returned to work in a couple days. He suggested I pay the $19 to get my tabs and that the dealership would reimburse me (usually not a good sign). But I trusted Marlon, paid my $19 so I would have tabs right away. I made myself a reminder to follow up with Marlon in about a week. The day I wanted to follow up, my reimbursement check arrived in the mail. My experience buying my used Honda Element from First Kia was exceptional from start to finish. Thanks to Marlon Arevalo, a nice guy and excellent customer service. I recommend shopping with Marlon. Thanks again! read more

I visited the website after seeing the newest Kia Soul commercial with dueling banjos and hamsters. I wanted that purple Kia Soul. I was contacted by Maggie who put me in touch with Collin Kiedaisch. After speaking with Collin, I went in for a test drive. He was extremely knowledgeable and a very nice young man. We discussed various vehicles, options, packages, and what I wanted in my car. Collin took me for a test drive and then showed me all the Souls current on the lot. He explained the option, differences, and prices for each one. Then, Collin, Bobby, Johnny Kia, and Dave worked with me to trade in/pay off my 2012 Kia Soul, as well as getting the financing and car payments to a place where I was comfortable. Before I left the lot, Collin sat with me in my new Soul, explaining how to work all the technology and cool features, promising additional help should I ever need it. They are a wonderful group of guys and I would definitely recommend them. I couldn't be happier and love my new Kia Soul. And Collin even put me in touch with a company to wrap my Soul purple! Can't wait! Thank you, 1st Kia! read more

For the last 3 months my husband and I have been looking for a used car to buy for our grandson who will be graduating, this will be his 1st car so we needed something safe and sound & within budget. We avoided going to a car dealership not wanting to have that pressure of a salesman breathing down our neck. Well, that was not the case at First Kia. We walked on the lot with Michael greeting us with a big smile, he let us know if we needed anything he was there to help, we let him know what we were looking for and what we wanted to spend, within a few minutes Michael had a car pulled around from the back and there I was looking at my grandsons new/used car. I was so impressed with the service Michael offered us. We didn't have to haggle the price, it's exactly what we wanted, the staff made us feel like family. Bar none the BEST experience I've ever had at First Kia, friendly staff, fast service, we were in and out of there in no time. I just cant say enough about First Kia. Thanks Guys!!! 5 star all the way! Ask for Michael or Jonny, they will take care of you. read more

I have been buying cars from Johnny Kia for the last 10 years and words really cannot describe the customer service I receive from him every time I visit the dealership. I have purchased 5 cars from him over the years and have never dealt with a general manager who is so professional and laid back. Not once has he ever pushed me into buying a vehicle I never wanted. Not once have I ever felt sold and owned by the dealership. Johnny Kia always listens to what the customer wants and then delivers in such a way that no other dealership does. We all hear that when we walk into a Mercedes, Lexus, or BMW dealership, we receive 5 star treatment; in my opinion, I feel intimidated and all the sales empoyees are so pushy. When I walk into First Kia in Simi Valley and deal with Johnny Kia, I feel at home. I am comfortable, I feel appreciated, respected and my time is never wasted. If you want to get a great deal on a great car for an affordable price with exceptional customer service, go visit Johnny Kia. He will treat you as if you were buying a Rolls Royce. read more

Just wanted to give 1st Kia and our new & official car sales rep "Sid"in Simi Valley a BIG Thank You for selling us our 2014 Chrysler Town & Country; it's absolutely fantastic! This is my third car from 1st Kia; you guys are the BEST, my entire family loves the van. Initially I was reluctant in trading my car for just any ordinary van, but "Sid" guided us in selecting the perfect stylish family van for my wife, daughters, and I; its fully loaded with all kinds of cool luxuries. FYI, Over the weekend I took my wife, three daughters, and dog on our first picnic, we were able to finally fit everything we wanted to take with us, such as our ice chest, roller blades, and bicycles all in one trip. We were also able to go a pool party without feeling limited to what we could bring and now we are planning our first family camping trip in August in our Chrysler Town & Country. From our family to yours we want to thank you "Sid" for being such a honest and humble sales associate and a BIG SHOUT OUT to management in 1st Kia in Simi Valley. We give you an A+ read more

I usually don't post many reviews, but I thought this one really deserved it. For me, car shopping has always something i dreaded. I hated the high pressure sales from the moment you walked onto the lot, till the time, (if you do buy) you are signing your contract. Well, let me tell you that I experienced none of that at this dealership. What really shocked me the most, was the down home feel of the dealership. That surely was a pleasant surprise. My salesman Tim was absolutely awesome, (and no, we are not related, lol). He took very good care of me, no high pressure selling. He was straightforward and honest with me, which I appreciated. Given my circumstances, we found the car that I wanted, and more importantly, could afford! Once the deal was complete, I signed the papers and was introduced to just about every member of the staff from the Mgr, to the personnel in the service and parts dept. A definite first for me! Anyway, i highly recommend Kia of Simi Valley. If you do decide to go, ask for Tim. He will take good care of you! read more

We just leased a Kia Niro EV from First Kia of Simi Valley, and the entire experience was truly outstanding. From the very beginning, Jesus--our salesman--was genuine, friendly, and straightforward. For the first time in our car-buying history, the dealership actually honored the exact deal they offered us over the phone, with no surprises or pressure. Jesus treated us more like a friend than a salesperson, taking the time to explain everything thoroughly and making sure we felt comfortable every step of the way. The rest of the staff was just as professional and welcoming. Even in the finance department, there was no pushy upselling--just honest, helpful service. The whole process felt more like working with a family-run business than a big dealership, and we couldn't be happier. We signed a 24-month lease on an unbeatable deal, and my son absolutely loves the car. Thank you to Jesus and the entire First Kia team for making this such an enjoyable and memorable experience. Highly recommend! read more

I had the pleasure of visiting the Kia car dealership with my 86-year-old mom, and I must say, our experience was exceptional, all thanks to Brian Keelan - Service Advisor. Brian went above and beyond to assist my mom, patiently explaining in detail the service that was to be performed on her van. His extensive knowledge about the vehicles and their maintenance was truly impressive! What stood out even more was Brian's professional and friendly demeanor throughout our visit. Moreover, Brian arranged for Antonio to take us home after dropping off the vehicle, which was greatly appreciated and a demonstration of great customer service. Overall, our experience at the Kia dealership, thanks to Brian, was nothing short of outstanding. We left feeling confident in the service to be done and grateful for the kindness and expertise we encountered. If you're looking for a dealership with top-notch service and dedicated professionals, I highly recommend paying a visit to Brian and his team at Kia. read more

I went there to get answers to an oil pressure warning light. I had just had the oil changed at jiffy lube,after I drove seven miles to get there. I got a call from them and and was told that my oil was low and very dark and dirty. When confronted with the news that I had just had the oil changed I was told that the mechanic deals with lots of cars so he must have made an honest mistake. You be the judge! Also a year ago, last July. We took my wife's car in to have the air conditioning. Looked at it would blow hot air on hot days when she stopped at a stop light. They charged us $200. Said it was fixed and it was running perfectly. As soon as she left, it started. Blowing hot air at the stoplight. I honestly didn't know what ago I took it to air conditioning specialist in kenoga park across the 160 dollars, and he charged it to specifications, and now it's running. Great, so how competent are these people? Dishonest and incompent don't go there. read more

I bought my new Kia Optima at First Kia in Simi Valley at the end of June. We felt we got a great deal, and everyone at this dealership seems to really care about customer service. I couldn't be happier with Marlin (the sales associate) and everyone else at Team First Kia. I just brought my Optima in for its first oil change, and the service was ridiculously good. They got the car finished in less than 45 minutes when I told them I was in a hurry, and I waited in the insanely comfortable customer lounge. I would suggest that they offer free coffee though. That's my only complaint. Everything else was great. They washed the car, and gave me a free LCD flashlight keychain. Plus, they make it really easy to know when to come back with the sticker in the upper part of my windshield. I have never had service like that before at a dealer and I tell you, I'm going to be a First Kia customer for life! read more

Just got a 2015 Kia Optima at this dealership and I'm very satisfied with the service this dealership provided. I knew exactly what I wanted in a car and these guys, especially the salesman Cory, made it happen. Cory is great to work with and actually cares about customers, very personable and understanding in regards to what you want in a car. I drove from the San Fernando Valley to this dealership, just because of the many positive reviews from other satisfied customers. You can find the greatest car with the lowest price on the internet, but if it's located at a shady dealership with people you don't trust, you're better off walking away. Never picked up any indication of that at this dealership (compared to other dealerships I've tried to do business with). I recommend anyone interested in a Kia to pay First Kia a visit - you might leave with a great deal on a car!! read more