Powell Motors is the best! In 2008, our car was totaled & friends referred us to Powell Motors. For their car we were interested in, they showed us the car fax, service records from the previous owner, inspection that they'd had an independent mechanic do, and the repairs that they'd had done before they considered it ready for sale. We were impressed by how much quality they demanded of the car before they'd sell it, the lengths that they went to to ensure that it would be reliable, and by their transparent honesty & integrity. At that time, we didn't buy a car from them, though, because we ended up buying our old car back from the insurance company & having it fixed. But we decided that if we ever needed a car in the future, we'd get it from Powell Motors! Fast forward to 2014. It was time for a new vehicle; we needed a pick-up truck. We watched Craigslist and several dealers' stock, including Powell Motors, on-line for several weeks. It was quite overwhelming, and none of the trucks combined all the features we were looking for while still being within our budget! Finally, on a free day when we could see from Powell Motors' on-line inventory that they did not have a truck in stock (that way, we figured, they couldn't push us to buy one that wasn't really what we were looking for - we needn't have worried, we've found out; they wouldn't have done that no matter what!), we went into Powell Motors to ask about trucks. We got a complete education from Vince! He helped us clarify just what we were looking for, and he took careful notes on what we needed, wanted, and didn't want. We thought we'd have to wait for ages until our perfect truck somehow showed up in their lot, but no; Vince said now that he knew what we wanted, he'd be on the look-out for a really good truck just for us when he went to the auctions! It might be a couple of months or a couple of weeks, but he'd be looking for our truck! Now that was a relief right there - no more looking at Craigslist wondering what kind of hidden problems we'd be paying for if we bought from there, no more wondering how we'd know if we spotted a good one on a dealer's website, and no more hours wasted hunting for a truck that we still wouldn't be sure of! We felt confident that Vince would find us a good truck. He had explained that he's had 40 years experience looking for the very highest quality vehicles at the auctions, and he hardly ever makes a mistake. He told us about a mistake a while back (the only one in the last year, as we recall): he bought at the auction what he thought would be a good car, but after he sent it to the independent mechanic for inspection as they do with all their cars, it came back with a list of needed repairs that would have made it too expensive to sell at a reasonable price. Did they put it on the lot anyway & sell it un-repaired to some unsuspecting customer? No - Vince has an 81-year family reputation to uphold! They won't sell anything they know has a problem, and they go above & beyond to make sure their cars are great. It took about 2-1/2 months before Vince found "our" truck. During that time, he did give us a call because he'd found a great one; he said he knew it wasn't exactly what we were looking for but wanted to tell us about it because it was close & really good. We decided to pass on that one. And then, one day, the phone call came that he'd found our truck! Sure enough - only 1 owner; a little older than we'd hoped for but only 23,000 miles, drives like new, on & on! Vince had a couple of things repaired and then got new tires for us! Not because the original tires were worn with only 23,000 miles on them but because, at their age, the sun could have damaged them! And then he put all those receipts into the folder with the rest of the info on our truck. That's the kind of extra mile they go to, to make sure their customers will be happy & safe, with a vehicle that will last! There are so many other things we could also say: it turned out that my uncle had bought cars there; they wanted the name of the friends who had referred us back in 2008 so they could send them a thank you note (and then Vince actually remembered our friends!); the friendly, hand-written cards they sent us; the great 3rd-party warranty they can offer for their cars, since the warranty company knows how reliable Powell Motors cars are . . . We just can't say enough about how well we were treated, how much effort they put into finding just what their customers are looking for, and how friendly, honest, and full of integrity they are at Powell Motors! read more

Vince Powell of Powell Motors, Inc. and his family really treated us right! We paid a little bit more than we'd hoped, but since we were looking for a unicorn of a vehicle (a-less-than-10-year-old Honda Element with perfect service records & a clean bill of health, bonus points for no cladding and a kick-ass color), we felt the price was fair. We had called ahead on the car and half expected it to be sold by the time we'd be able to go see it. Vince called us to let us know it was still there the night before we were scheduled to come. (We were driving from Salem.) From the minute we walked in, we were warmly greeted... not in that schmoozy fake "I see dollar signs on your forehead and need to make my quota" way... It was more like when you go to your first sleep-over at your best friend's house and their parents make you feel like you're a welcome part of their miraculously-not-dysfunctional family. After close inspection, we took a nice long test drive. He offered to go with us, but let us go on our own. We had planned to get a mobile mechanic to come check it out for us, but they had already had an inspection and tune up done by the highly rated Same Day Auto Service of Clackamas, and shared the full records. So we felt we didn't need to get our own inspection done. When we came back and were still not sure, he held it for us while we took a walk and had a long lunch at the Burgerville (there were about a hundred little cheerleaders in front of us). It started pouring and he actually sent his son out to come see if he could find us to give us a ride back, though we missed him since we were already on our way. When Vince saw the super-worn key for our old Subaru, he let us know the info we'd gotten originally that if it breaks we have to rekey was incorrect, and he set us up to get a new one cut based on the VIN number at the shop down the block. He let them know we we'd be coming after we finished buying the car so that they would stay open for us in case we were a few minutes late, and he also offered to show me how to get there. He was able to take a card rather than just a check for our downpayment, and didn't charge any processing fees, which can be pretty high for major purchases. And he held the car for us for four days until we could get back to bring the credit union check. We had noticed a few minor condition issues - dinged paint on the door, a broken air vent, missing rubber bit on a seat, and broken vanity mirror), all of which they fixed for us. When we arrived to pick up the car there was a cute hand-lettered sign in the window. Everything was as agreed and then some. Since they are Carfax members we have the one year lemon/severe damage/odometer guarantee. I'll let you know how it holds up, but I'm pretty sure I can safely say we had a great experience with good people, buying a vehicle I'm pretty sure we're going to love. read more

My oldest daughter purchased a Subaru from Powell Motors in April...she was so impressed by the customer service from Israel who took the time to tell her everything about the car she would be purchasing. They are a top notch car dealer. My husband and I are from Washington and were also looking for a car for our youngest daughter to drive. We decided to check out Powell motors and were so happy to find her a great safe car. Vince and Israel were very thorough and spent a lot of time with us in helping us get the car we wanted. We only had a few days in Portland to accomplish this and tie up the loose ends. She ended up with a wonderful Kia Spectra with low mileage and in such great shape...we had the confidence in this car getting her through the next few years. Vince takes great pride in selling you a car that you will love! The customer service is the best thing about Powell motors besides the caring staff that work there...they go above and beyond and answered all of our questions...very very thorough on everything when you purchase a car from them. It is an immaculate dealership and very professional..they make you feel at home and don't pressure you into anything and help you stay within your budget! I would recommend Powell Motors to anyone looking to buy a used car...integrity and honesty is the utmost important thing for us and Powell Motors rates a 10 in that area. Thank you Vince, Israel and Josh for the wonderful customer service. We will be back in the future! read more

Powell Motors was the best used car experience I've ever had! Quality used vehicles you can trust. Sold by a team who (you can tell) loves their work, trust their vehicles, and take pride in their business. Recently purchased a 2008 Jeep Patriot Limited 4x4 (almost on the spot) from PM. Vince took time to go through not only the car-fax, but their own service report/vehicle inspection with me in detail. Very reassuring to see all the issues that were addressed by PM before putting the Jeep out for sale. In my opinion, there were service items addressed that I don't think most used dealerships would take the time to consider before selling. I was very impressed by the quality of work/consideration they put into the Jeep prior to deeming the vehicle ready for sale. I definitely think that I drove off the lot with the best quality used vehicle for the price in the city of Portland. And I get the distinct feeling that Vince, Israel, and Josh would happily drive anyone of their cars as their own if they weren't on the lot to be sold. It's that kind of pride that will bring me back next time I am looking for a used vehicle. Honestly cannot say enough about these guys at PM. Thanks again, Love the the Jeep! read more

I can't believe that I am giving a positive review to a car dealership! I've worked at one. They are notorious for all things I do not admire. This one of different. I bought my current (pristine) Honda from Mr. Powell on Christmas Eve two years ago. He was the only one working. Everyone else had the day off. It was a hard holiday season for me. But he was so kind and attentive. I mentioned to him that I'd bought from James, that I'd liked talking to him, and Mr. Powell called James (now living across the country) so I could say hello. (Sounds odd, but you have to know how much they are family to each other.) All of their cars are in great shape, as Mr. Powell takes great pride in his ethics and quality, and in his investment in the community. He quite sincerely wants to serve you. I have (over many years) bought three cars from them. They have even helped me decide what to buy after I told them that I would not be buying there. *Take a camera if you visit. They have so much great nostalgic memorabilia from past decades. read more

You would be hard-pressed to find a better used car dealer than Powell Motors! The staff is friendly and not pushy or oily/slimy like so many lots. They want to be sure you will buy from them again and again. The vehicles they sell are 99% clean-titled (they will be upfront when the title is not, and it is rare that they have one that isn't). They give their vehicles a thorough inspection, and make sure any and all repairs are done before putting it on the lot for sale. The price of the vehicles is fixed - they give you the best price they can. No haggling! I have purchased two or three cars from Vince and Israel and have never had any trouble with anything I bought there. When I am in the market for another car, this is ALWAYS the first place I check. Their inventory is small, so I don't always find what I'm looking for, but I always check with them first, and I always recommend them to friends looking to buy a vehicle. read more

We had pretty much given up on the idea of finding an honest car dealer until we stepped into Powell Motors. First of all, the place looks immaculate, and shows real pride of ownership. Vince sat down with us and we gave him an idea what it was that we were looking for. He had a file for each car, and was able to show us the inspection, and work that had been done on the vehicle. Vince buys only cars with clean Carfax history. We saw a Honda Civic that we liked a lot, and decided to buy it. The next day we returned to finalize the sale. Israel worked with us to fill out the paper work. He patiently answered all our questions. He took so much pride in giving us a gleaming car and made sure it was in tiptop shape. At Powell's you get treated with the utmost respect: You're not a walking ATM machine, but a human being. I recommend everyone I meet to buy their next vehicle from Powell Motors. Thank you Vince, Israel and Pam! read more

Paige K. A friend, a smart business woman, recommended Powell Motors to me. Israel and Vince were warm, friendly and over the few days that I looked at the cars in stock, they talked with me enough to get a strong sense of my needs and what was of value to me. Their listening and questions helped me clarify what it was I wanted. I test drove 7 cars, debated their merits and drawbacks. Israel and Vince were very patient and laid back in all of this. I felt no pressure, unlike dealing with car dealers of the past. They had a complete portfolio on the car and the work that they had had done to bring it up to its best. I drove home a week later in a squeaky clean car, shined and spiffed. I loved the honesty of Israel and Vince; I especially value that they really cared and were invested in their cars, but with no pressure. I love my new car (only 6,000 miles on it) and know I got the best deal in town!!! read more

I highly recommend Powell Motors! Vince is extremely communicative, thorough, and trustworthy, and just an overall pleasure to interact with. I went in and test drove a few cars on two separate occasions, and was very interested in a Corolla that still needed some repairs and body work done, and Vince kept me updated on the status of the car at every step in the process. I ultimately bought a car elsewhere due to a unique circumstance, but I felt compelled to leave a review here because I had such a positive experience with Powell. I'll be recommending them to friends and will certainly return to them if/when I'm in need of another vehicle! read more

Last Friday I purchased an auto (a convertible) from Powell Motors. It was the best purchase experience I have had in the past 40 years. Vince and Israel are terrific! Their attention to detail of the auto, from detailed service records since new, spotless inside (including under the hood) and out, to complete records of all the auto checks (from, e.g., brakes, engine seals, engine cylinder compression, and much more) that validate the mechanical condition and safety. The car is really fun to drive especially on a sunny day, and the wonderful purchase experience certainly adds to the fun! D Baker, PDX read more

I bought my car from these guys back in November - sorry it's taken so long to review! I highly recommend this company, They asked what I needed and wanted in a vehicle, and my price range. And they listened - and showed me what they had that fitted with my criteria. They showed me all the paperwork related to the car I was interested in: they did all the paperwork necessary for the purchase and registration - and they were all so pleasant and helpful! There was absolutely no pushing, no pressure. And the car I bought is great! read more

Just bought a used Ranger from Vince. This is an honest, well run company that takes real pride in their inventory and even more pride in their service. I simply can't say enough about this company. They walk their talk in a quiet and low key way that gets the customer into a great vehicle with no pressure and extraordinary efficiency. If all dealers were like Vince, Israel and Josh the used car market would have a much better reputation. I love my new (to me) truck and when it's time for the next one, Powell gets the business. read more

This is an exceptionally high quality and honest dealership that gives incredible customer service. I'm new to the area and they were recommended by my cousin and I am so very happy with the car I bought. Israel's knowledgeable and low key approach made my decision easy and I've never regretted it. I went in to pick up my license plate, which they installed, and Josh also voluntarily washed my car and checked my tire pressure! Check out the other reviews and you will never go wrong with Powell Motors! read more

I have been very impressed with the quality of the cars that are at Powell Motors. In my recent search of a quality SUV, I found Vince, Israel and the staff to be very friendly and allowed me the time to review the options of the SUV's on the lot. Once I selected the vehicle to test drive and purchase, it was a very pleasant experience to complete the buying of the vehicle. I was offered additional seat covers at no charge for the vehicle. I will certainly return to Powell's for my next car purchase. read more

My experience with Powell Motors was excellent! It was the first time I bought a car from a dealer, so I entered the process with trepidation...which was completely unfounded. Israel walked and talked me through the process of getting a great deal on just the right used car. I was treated with courtesy and respect and was impressed that he car was impeccably clean in every detail. I would certainly recommend Powell Motors for anyone looking for a quality used car and the best possible service. read more

Purchased a 2006 Hyundai Elantra from Powell Motors in January. They came highly recommended and more than met our expectations. These folks are the real thing. The vehicles they sell are all good quality models, have been throughly checked out, and all needed service taken care of. Vehicles are spotless inside and out and ready to drive. Customer service is outstanding. We have purchased close to 10 used cars over the years for ourselves or our kids as teens, so we speak from experience. read more

AMAZING is the first word which comes to mind. I'm 69 years old and have bought a slew of used cars in my time. But I'm here to tell you that I have NEVER had such a pleasurable experience as I had here. The owner is just FANTASTIC. Extremely kind, honest and very personable. Within 10 minutes, it felt as though I was dealing with a close friend. I wish I could list all the great things that occurred as my wife and I chose and bought our car. Suffice it to say, it was AWESOME! read more

The best place to buy a pre-owned car, by far! Israel and Vince are very friendly and informative and not pushy at all. We had been looking for a car and found one on Powell's lot. We had to wait an excessively long time for the insurance company to pay out (don't get hit by a FedEx truck, EVER!) and they were very patient and even replaced the windshield because it wasn't up to their high standards. I could go on and on, but just be sure to check out their cars first! read more

My family has purchased two cars from Powell Motors and were treated exceptionally well both times. The cars are clean, problem free and reasonably priced. The entire transaction is transparent and all of the existing repair records and Carfax reports are provided. The service is outstanding. Vince and Israel go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction. HIghly recommended! read more