American Automotive Group is a holding company that owns and operates multiple car dealership brands across the United States

American Automotive Group (AAG) is a privately held company that owns and runs a portfolio of automotive dealerships under different brand names. Rather than operating as a single dealership chain, AAG functions as a parent company — each dealership it owns operates under its own name and brand identity, though they share common ownership and back-office operations.

The company primarily focuses on used vehicle sales, though some locations also handle new vehicles and trade-ins. If you are shopping for a car and encounter a dealership that is part of AAG's portfolio, you are working with a dealership owned by this larger corporate entity, even though the storefront and signage may not display the AAG name.

Key Takeaways

  • American Automotive Group owns multiple independent-seeming dealership brands, but they share the same parent company and operational structure.
  • AAG dealerships primarily sell used vehicles, and each location operates under its own local brand name rather than a national chain identity.
  • Understanding that a dealership is part of AAG can help you research the company's reputation and customer service record across all its locations.
  • The company's dealerships are spread across different regions, so the specific location and inventory available depends on which AAG-owned dealership you visit.

How AAG Dealerships Operate

Each AAG-owned dealership functions as a separate retail location with its own management, sales staff, and inventory. From a customer perspective, you may not realize you are working with an AAG dealership unless you research the ownership structure. The dealership will have its own name, website, and local phone number, and staff will represent themselves as part of that specific dealership rather than as representatives of AAG.

Behind the scenes, AAG provides centralized support for financing, inventory management, accounting, and human resources. This structure allows individual dealerships to maintain local identity and customer relationships while benefiting from the resources and systems of a larger organization. Dealerships under AAG ownership typically follow the same sales processes, financing options, and warranty policies across locations, even though each operates independently.

What to Know Before Buying From an AAG Dealership

When you purchase a vehicle from an AAG-owned dealership, the transaction process is similar to buying from any independent used car dealer. You will negotiate price, arrange financing (either through the dealership or your own lender), sign paperwork, and receive the vehicle title. The dealership will handle the sale and any warranties or service agreements offered.

One practical consideration is that AAG dealerships may have access to a larger inventory network across multiple locations. If a specific vehicle you want is not in stock at one dealership, staff may be able to locate it at another AAG location and arrange transfer. This can be an advantage if you are searching for a particular make, model, or price point.

Before purchasing, research the specific dealership's reputation through online reviews, the Better Business Bureau, and state consumer protection records. While all AAG dealerships share the same parent company, individual locations can have different customer service records and sales practices. Reading reviews specific to the location where you plan to buy will give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

Financing and Warranty Options at AAG Dealerships

AAG dealerships typically offer in-house financing, meaning they can arrange a loan directly through their finance department rather than requiring you to find financing elsewhere. This can simplify the purchase process, though you should compare the interest rate and terms they offer against what you could obtain from a bank or credit union. You are never required to use dealership financing — bringing your own pre-approved loan is always an option.

Warranties and service agreements vary by dealership and vehicle. Some AAG locations offer extended warranties, service plans, or guarantees on used vehicles, while others sell vehicles as-is. Ask about what coverage, if any, comes with the vehicle you are considering, and request the terms in writing before you sign any paperwork.

Finding an AAG Dealership Location

Because AAG dealerships operate under individual brand names rather than a national AAG banner, finding them requires knowing which specific dealership names are part of the AAG portfolio. The company does not maintain a single public directory of all its locations. If you want to know whether a dealership you are considering is AAG-owned, you can search online for the dealership name plus "owner" or "parent company," or contact the dealership directly and ask about its ownership structure.

AAG dealerships are located in various states, with concentrations in certain regions. The specific locations, inventory, and services available depend on which dealership you visit. If you are shopping in a particular area, a local internet search for used car dealerships combined with ownership research will help you identify which ones are AAG-owned.

Customer Service and Complaints

If you have a problem with a purchase or service at an AAG dealership, your first step is to contact the dealership's management directly. Most dealerships have a general manager or customer service department that handles complaints and disputes. Document all communications in writing, keep copies of your paperwork, and be specific about what went wrong and what resolution you are seeking.

If the dealership does not resolve your issue, you can file a complaint with your state's attorney general office, the Better Business Bureau, or your state's consumer protection agency. You can also contact your state's motor vehicle department if the issue involves title problems or fraud. Having documentation of your purchase agreement, communications with the dealership, and the specific problem will strengthen any complaint you file.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a dealership is owned by American Automotive Group?

Search the dealership name online combined with "owner" or "parent company." You can also call the dealership and ask directly who owns it. AAG does not use its name on storefronts, so dealerships operate under their own local brand names.

Does buying from an AAG dealership mean I get different protections than buying from an independent dealer?

No. Whether a dealership is independently owned or part of AAG, you have the same legal protections under state consumer protection laws and lemon laws. Your rights depend on your state's regulations, not on the dealership's corporate structure.

Can I return a vehicle I bought from an AAG dealership?

Return policies vary by dealership and state law. Some AAG locations offer short return windows (typically three to seven days), while others sell vehicles as-is with no return option. Check the dealership's specific policy before you buy, and request it in writing.

What if I have a problem with financing after I leave the dealership?

Contact the dealership's finance department first. If the issue involves the loan terms or interest rate, ask for a manager. If you believe you were charged unfairly or given incorrect information, file a complaint with your state's attorney general or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Are AAG dealerships more expensive than independent dealers?

Pricing depends on the specific vehicle, condition, and market demand — not on whether a dealership is part of AAG or independently owned. Compare prices across multiple dealerships in your area, regardless of ownership structure, to find the best deal.