Overall Experience: 2/5 Stars Here's my experience purchasing a used 2018 vehicle from Gene Pankey Motor Company in Tacoma, broken out by team and overall experience. The Car: 4/5 Stars I purchased a used 2018 vehicle that I genuinely love. One thing I appreciated was being able to take the car to a local dealership for a pre-purchase inspection before buying it. That said, there were several quality control issues that should have been caught before delivery: * The battery still had visible battery acid corrosion on it despite being told by the salesperson it would be cleaned prior to pickup. * Shortly after bringing the vehicle home, I noticed a puddle of oil underneath the car because the oil pan drain plug had not been properly tightened after servicing from S7 Automotive. Thankfully, the oil issue was an easy fix that I handled myself, and overall I'm still happy with the vehicle -- but these are details that should not be missed during inspection and prep. Salesperson Experience: 1/5 Stars The salesperson was helpful initially and I appreciated that the test drive process was low pressure. However, the overall experience left a lot to be desired. I told him upfront that I wanted the vehicle inspected at a dealership of my choosing, and he initially told me that was not allowed and that I needed to use a mechanic they preferred. Later, the sales manager clarified that I absolutely could use any mechanic I wanted. There was also a strong emphasis on closing the deal quickly because the salesperson was going on vacation and wanted the commission finalized before leaving. He repeatedly mentioned not talking to other salespeople because it could impact his commission, which felt unnecessary and unprofessional from a customer perspective. Communication also became pushy at times regarding financing paperwork and getting the check delivered. When I arrived to finalize and pick up the vehicle, the interaction felt very transactional with little appreciation or customer care shown. Sales Manager: 2/5 Stars Mixed experience here. The Sales Manager (salesperson's boss) did ultimately clarify that I could take the vehicle to any mechanic I chose for inspection, which I appreciated. However, he also told me my license plates would be mailed out on a specific Monday, and that never happened. I ultimately had to follow up through the business manager to get the issue resolved. Business Manager: 5/5 Stars The business manager was by far the standout part of this experience and honestly saved the deal from becoming a much worse review. When I arrived to finalize paperwork, there had been internal communication breakdowns with the sales team, which caused delays with my credit union paperwork. He stepped in immediately, worked through the issue professionally, and made sure I didn't have to make another trip. He also personally handled getting the battery corrosion cleaned after I mentioned it had not been done as promised. He also mailed out my license plates as that fell through the cracks on the sales manager's end. He was professional, customer-focused, proactive, and easily the strongest representative of the dealership during this process. Service / S7 Automotive: 2/5 Stars I didn't deal with them directly, but based on the work completed on the vehicle prior to sale, I was not impressed. The brakes squeaked after the brake service, and the loose oil drain plug was concerning. Overall, I like the car and there were some positives about the experience, mainly the Business Manager, but the dealership's communication both with customers and internally needs improvement, and the overall experience with the sales team left a lot to be desired. read more

Bear with this long review as a shorter review just doesn't do Gene Pankey justice.... My wife and I were not expecting to be in the market for a car, but unfortunately she was in a serious car accident and her car was totaled. I looked at hundreds of cars online and was very impressed with Gene Pankey's inventory! My grandfather discovered Gene Pankey back in the 1980's and the only two cars my grandparents owned were purchased here! My grandmother still cruises around in her 1997 baby blue Ford Taurus! My first car was also purchased here. The webpage is user-friendly and doesn't misrepresent the price as many dealership tend to do. I found a 2017 Honda Accord in perfect condition. When we arrived on the lot we were greeted by Kevin. Kevin listened and didn't try to push anything on us that we did not want to see. He was very transparent and made the car buying experience enjoyable. Not wanting to experience buyers remorse, we decided to take some time and have lunch to decide. Kevin let us take the car for an extended test drive to think about it. We stopped by South Tacoma Honda, which we immediately regretted. Unlike Kevin, who actually listened, we were bombarded by an overzealous SALESMAN! This salesman did not listen to a word we said and was just over the top. They had a similar model to the one we were looking at, but a year newer. Despite being a year newer, this car was not nearly as nice as the car from Gene Pankey. We decided to take the car for a test drive to see what the difference was in the 2018 vs the 2017. The salesman at South Tacoma insisted he come with us. He ended up sitting between my father and my son in the back. I ended up cutting the test drive short and we returned to Gene Pankey. Kevin was busy helping another customer but arranged for another salesman to assist them so he could meet with us. Needless to say, Kevin, and the Gene Pankey atmosphere made our decision easy. Kevin shared his experience working in the car sales industry and it is apparent he is in this line of work for the right reasons. It is evident he prides himself on selling a good product and carrying on the Gene Pankey way! Once we reached a number, we met with John, who I later learned is the owner. John was very helpful and informative regarding extended warranties ect. I initially had my mind made up that I was not going to buy an extended warranty. John explained (without pressure) the benefits of the warranty and that Gene Pankey basically sales the warranty at cost, unlike many other dealerships. The reason for this is to ensure customers are not upside down on their previous car due to the warranty; therefore, Gene Pankey is able to make a deal on a new car. Long story short, I could not be more pleased with our car buying experience and would recommend Gene Pankey and Kevin to anyone! Do yourself a favor and check out Gene Pankey before going to a big dealership who only sees dollar sings when you pull up! read more

I got put in a pretty rough sticky situation after I got rearended on 167 and my car got totaled. I had no car to get to work, i had injuries i was trying to recover from, i had nothing to give, my credit was terrible, my situation sucked, and as a single mom, i had very little money to put forward for another car. Lot after lot after lot for over a week I was denied. Kevin, Travis, Jason, and Craig down at Gene Pankey worked magic for me. They got me into a 2023 nissan versa with all the bells and whistles. Sure it wasnt the car i really wanted to try for, but it was reliable for my needs and they new that. It wasnt easy for them or for me, but they made it happen! The best part was, after working with Jason with my unique situation on the table, he really listened and heard my story, he felt my heartache and saw my desperation in trying to find a car to get back to work with so i can take care of my family, and with that, he really stuck his neck out for me and put his trust in me and went above and beyond to get me on the road when I needed it most, THAT DAY. I hope he felt relief and my gratitude in the hug I gave him afterwards. They really are wonderful, caring, compassionate, and hard working people who care more about helping you than making that $ selling a car. I will forever be grateful for Jason for doing what he did for me and for Craig for working hard to get things together and ready for everything to run as smoothly as possible, and for travis for finding me a lender willing to see me, and for kevin for getting things started for me. I will never forget them, especially Jason! If I ever need another car (lets pray i wont for a long time), or I come across anyone who needs pointed in the right direction for a car, they are my go to place! They have no idea how much appreciation and gratitude I have for them when I had very little hope left to give, when i felt most alone and noone to help me. Thank you Gene Pankey for being the best people to work with and for doing everything you did for me!!! You need a car, go see them! read more

I recently recently purchased my third vehicle from Gene Pankey, a 2020 Jeep Gladiator. The crew was very patient with me while trying to make a decision on my next vehicle. I must have test drove 5 different things before Dominic sent me a text with one he thought fit not only my taste, but my budget as well.I have to be honest, when I purchased my first car there a 2006 Honda Civic my credit situation was not in the greatest shape. I was going back to school, took out loans to pay for it, and was spread pretty thin. They never tried to get me into something I didn't want or couldn't afford. I felt like they were really trying to help me for the long term. Shortly after I finished school I was ready to move into a nicer vehicle. I did the same thing. Drove a bunch of vehicles, couldn't decide what I wanted and then I happened. I fell in love with a 2016 c300. By this time my credit had bounced back and got a way better interest rate with low down payment and a monthly budget which was totally affordable. Same outstanding service from the guys, full transparency and easy purchase. I bought the Jeep about three months ago now and have made numerous upgrades. Wheels, tires, stereo... (its a Jeep thing I guess lol). It has by far been my favorite vehicle that I have ever purchased. Yet again I got an better rate and even more confidence in where I purchase my vehicles. To sum up my experience, I will never buy another used vehicle from anywhere else. Gene Pankey is the only way to go. They helped me, a middle aged guy with less than stellar credit move from a high mileage commuter car to a $40,000 dream rig. They did it with patience, integrity, and a true passion for helping people drive reliable cars. Thank you Gene Pankey. Y'all are the best. read more

I rarely write reviews for online purchases because I do most of my shopping online and I'm constantly being solicited for reviews. In Gene Pankeys case I thought I'd make an exception. I purchased a 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee for my grandson in late February. We live in Yakima and on the way back home. a check engine light came on. I took it to the Jeep dealership after learning that the check engine light was for a misfiring third cylinder. I immediately called Gene Panke about my warranty because the dealership wanted $500 just to diagnose the misfire. I talked with Mark who handles warranty claims and he said they would cover the cost of the diagnosis and up to $1000 more per their warranty. After the diagnosis we learned that the problem was a blown head gasket and the repair cost were somewhere in excess of $4000. Within 30 minutes of talking to Mark I received a call from Dominic, the general manager, who advised me that the dealership would cover up to $4000 in repair expenses. I readily agreed and Dominic called the Jeep dealership and had the repair put on their credit card. Dominic communicated with the dealership and kept us in the loop. Although the repair took a day or two longer than expected all we had to do was show up to pick up the car. The bill was taken care of. Our salesman was Craig who made the online buying experience seamless. I have several other grandchildren and will not hesitate to make the drive to Tacoma the next time one of them need a reliable vehicle. read more

We recently purchased a 2004 F150 from Craig Wilson, and the experience was outstanding from start to finish. Craig greeted us with a friendly and approachable demeanor, instantly putting us at ease. He demonstrated extensive knowledge about the truck, walking us through its features, history, and maintenance records in detail.What impressed us most was Craig's honesty and transparency throughout the process. He made sure we understood every aspect of the sale, from the truck's performance to the financing options available. There was no pressure to rush into a decision, and he patiently answered all our questions, ensuring we felt completely comfortable before proceeding. The truck itself was in fantastic condition, just as Craig had described. He clearly takes pride in offering quality vehicles and ensuring his customers drive away satisfied. Beyond that, his dedication to exceptional customer service shone through, as he even followed up with us after the purchase to make sure everything was going well. If you're looking for someone trustworthy, professional, and genuinely committed to helping you find the right vehicle, we can't recommend Craig Wilson enough. Our 2004 F150 has been a fantastic purchase, and the experience was one of the best we've had in buying a vehicle. Thank you, Craig & thank you Gene pankey!! read more

Today, I had the most impressive and professional experience, buying a vehicle, in my 52 years! I have purchased many cars in the past and it has always been a, "brace yourself," experience! Not at Gene Pankey Motors! I went in at close to the end of their business day; in fact I think they had closed but still had a couple of people in the office. James came out, after seeing me looking at one of the mini vans and joyfully greeted me and my friend! I told him I had looked at a car about 4years prior with another salesman and he helped me identify who it was. Then he helped me pick out a van, find it on the lot, choose pricing and then invited me to come back when Kevin would be there! WOW, what team work! I came back the next day, worked with Kevin, who allowed me to take the car to my mechanic, the following day, for a diagnostic! The car was in great condition! However, after talking about my family needs the sales manager, Randy, came in the office with a, better than I could have imagined, offer for a similar and upgraded van! We started the paperwork and 1.25 hours later I drove off with an almost brand new van with a 3.5 yr factory warranty! And it was my Birthday, which they didn't know until the end of the sale! Kevin, and Randy gave me a wonderful gift! Thank you Gene Pankey Motors! read more

When I found Gene Pankey Motor company online, I was amazed how much different they appeared than the other dealers in the area. I read all the reviews, and found all positive things. I thought it had to be too good to be true. But when I started emailing Kevin, I was amazed by the professionalism and did not feel pressured whatsoever. It was so nice to finally talk to somebody that would actually listen to what I was looking for and not just try to push me into something I didn't want. Kevin was so incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, I almost forgot I was in a used car dealership. Before I found Gene Pankey, I began my process by looking at a lot of dealers around the area. What I was finding was that there are a lot of shady dealers around. So many will try and up sell you and talk down to you or even completely ignore your presence on the lot. I am so incredibly thankful for Kevin. He made the process so much easier. I am over 3 hours away from there but I will always go there and will always recommend Kevin and Gene Pankey Motor as a whole because of the ease of experience, the helpful staff, the kind words, and the welcoming, non-pushy atmosphere. Do your research people, these reviews are the real deal. You will not be disappointed. read more

Gene Pankey Motor Company didn't have the car my husband and I wanted and they actually searched and found the car we wanted! I couldn't believe it! The car they found was perfect and exactly what we were looking for! I drove all the way from north Idaho to pick up our new car. I was so exhausted when I got there and was greeted at my car by Gene Pankey staff. They immediately offered me water and coffee. I told them I was kind of hungry and they said they didn't know if they had anything but then came back with coffee and a snack for me! Wow! What great customer service! Was an absolute pleasure working with Dominic and Garrett, they were so friendly and gave me straight up advice. When it came down to buying the extended warranty Garrett was totally honest with me and said it probably wasn't worth getting. I felt safe knowing he wasn't trying to sell me something i didn't need. This is the second car I've bought from this dealer, originally I lived in the Seattle area. I was so happy with my service the first time, I will continue to buy from them even though I've moved 6 hours away. Totally worth it! Thank you! read more

Better late than never, I suppose, that I write this review. I purchased a 2015 BMW from Gene Pankey in July, and I am most grateful and impressed for the service I received from Craig Wilson and the rest of the staff. As a single woman buying a car from a dealership for the first time, I came armored with as much information as possible and was prepared to play hardball. However, every question I had was answered readily, and Craig graciously fielded my push time and time again. I was given plenty of time with the car to make my decision. When I came back from my second ride with my soon-to-be wheels, I pushed some more. Dominic, the man in charge, came out and answered more of my questions. I was thoroughly impressed by their professionalism and simultaneous humanity. Their transparency allowed me to feel more comfortable than I had anticipated, and eventually I agreed to purchase the car. With confidence, sans armor. I can't say enough good things about my experience here. While I believe I'll be loving my new car for some years to come, I will most definitely be back. read more

I came into the Dealership from Salem, OR to look at a 2015 Ford police interceptor. After test driving it I realized it was an interesting SUV, handled great, and met my expectations...it was just not what I wanted. Kevin asked me what I was looking for and took my family around the lot showing us multiple cars and SUV's. Very curtious, helpful, and patient with no pressure. My last car was a Subaru WRX with many upgrades and 370 hp. I say that because I left in a 2017 Kia Optima hybrid EX and couldn't be more pleased with my purchase. Fuel economy, heated seats and streering wheel, sound system... just an excellent package for me with the needs I asked for and was looking to have. The entire team there was very helpful and I never felt pressured to buy anything, but they listened to my wants, needs, expectations, and fit me into a car I wouldn't have ever thought I wanted. I again couldn't be more pleased with the car, the staff, the experience, and the drive back to Salem OR! Thank you again Kevin and the entire team of Gene Pankey Motor! Luke Pritchett read more

I can honestly say I had the best experience here than other dealerships I've purchased from. Right away we were acknowledged and helped by Kevin! The whole time we were looking I never once felt pressured by him or felt like he was trying to make a quick sale. He showed me exactly what I asked for. He was honest about car history and any questions we had. when I found the car I wanted he did his best to make it possible for us to get it at a monthly payment we were comfortable with! We also met Garret! He was amazing too! Gave me and my husband some honest advice that would benefit US instead of them. They were very understanding and helpful throughout the whole process. They worked with us until I think 9 pm and they close at 7pm lol . I am so happy and in love with my new car and feel confident in my choice! No shady business and you won't have any regrets after you drive off. And did I mention they have a 30 day warranty? I'm so glad I went with Pankey motors! read more

Great Experience. I recently had the pleasure of working with Kevin, and I have to say, it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. Kevin was knowledgeable, patient, and incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. He took the time to listen to my needs and preferences, and he was able to recommend several options that fit my budget and requirements. What really stood out to me about Kevin was his professionalism and dedication to customer service. He was always available to answer my questions and address any concerns I had, and he went above and beyond to ensure that I was completely satisfied. I never felt pressured or rushed during the process, and Kevin made sure that I understood all of the details and options available to me. Thanks Kevin! read more