Jim Riehl’s Friendly Chrysler Dodge Jeep certified Five Star dealership puts the emphasis on friendly, and relationships are what matters to General Manager Bob Riehl.
In July 2004, Jim Riehl, who also owns a Chrysler-Jeep dealership in Warren, MI, purchased Krane Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep at 1515 S. Lapeer Rd. from Kellie Krane after her husband Mitch passed away.
‘The business has been in the community a long time? Mitch was a phenomenal employer and it’s important to note his employees remained here with us,? Bob Riehl said. ‘I can’t express how welcoming they’ve been.?
Building on the respected reputation of Mitch Krane and his staff, Riehl said his primary goal is continuing to providing a full-service dealership is competitively priced for the community.
‘It’s important to build a long term relationship with the community and with our customers,? he said adding in the future he wants to sponsor ‘Red Wing? signing session to benefit local charities.
Low pressure, knowledgable sales staff are fully certified at Jim Riehl’s Friendly Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep to guide consumers through a showcase of more than 330 new vehicles and on-site financing program.
‘We are on the leading edge of technology (through Chrysler training programs) to make the process simple,? said Riehl. ‘The staff has the freedom and authorization to call the shots. I truly believe the days of running back and forth to the manager is long gone’I believe in giving authority to the sales people.?
In addition, customers have access to an expanded inventory of more than 1,000 vehicles from the Warren dealership, offering more flexibility in choice and competitive pricing.
Reopening the used car department further appeals to the value conscious customers, with a choice of over 60 vehicles on the front lot. Riehl believes offering used cars allows customers a more flexible pricing structure to to purchase a vehicle with.
‘We believe adding the department appeals to the value conscious consumer,? said Riehl. ‘In the long run gaining a happy customer is more important than a large profit.?
Years of experience in used cars allows Department Manager Harry Lewis to scrutinize the vehicles, which are then serviced by certified dealership technicians before being placed on the lot. All of which pass extensive safety inspections and a majority have limited warranties after purchase.
‘Every customer is important and every decision we make is related to what we can do to make the customer happy,? Riehl said. ‘I want to create a long term relationship with every customer.?
Once the Warranty Administrator for Mitch Krane, Connie Kennicott is now manager of the expanded Service Department to make sure customer needs are met throughout the life of their vehicle. Riehl said since Kennicott transferred to the department the entire operation has improved dramatically. Customers will experience faster turnaround times and increased services such as special recall repairs, tune-ups, maintenance, service reminders and lease-end repair, all done by trusted Chrysler technicians.
‘Connie has made a drastic change in climate in the service department,? said Riehl. ‘The employees are phenomenal, so willing to accept the changes and are dedicated to make it grow here.?
The department also offers competitive pricing on diagnosis for repairs, tire rotations, oil changes, break service, axil and transmission services, and transfer case repair. In cooperation Parts Manager Marty Green makes sure shelves are stocked and ready for any consumer needs.
Becoming a Five Star dealer is an impressive achievement Riehl credits to employee qualification and dedication, implementing a rigorous Chrysler program which serves to monitor, track, and adjust customer procedures according to consumer feedback.
‘It’s the best corporate program out there, (to assist in customer satisfaction).?
In addition to the in-house cutomer satisfaction program Riehl said an outside source keeps in contact with customers for up to three years after purchase.
Finally, Riehl credits cooperation and professionalism from the staff to making the dealership a customer friendly environment, admitting he and the staff will do everything they can to satisfy their customers.
‘I’m a hands on manager, here at all times. I do not screen my calls and my door is always wide open.?
Visit Jim Riehl’s Friendly Chrysler Dodge Jeep Monday and Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. or Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information call (810) 664-2900.