What Wickstrom Auto Group Is
Wickstrom Auto Group is a network of car dealerships operating across multiple locations, primarily in the upper Midwest. The group sells new and used vehicles from various manufacturers and offers financing, trade-in services, and after-sale maintenance. When you visit a Wickstrom location, you are working with a dealership that is part of this larger corporate structure, though each location operates with its own sales and service teams.
The dealerships under the Wickstrom name handle the same core transactions as independent dealerships: vehicle selection, price negotiation, financing arrangements, and service scheduling. Understanding how the group is organized and what each department does will help you move through the buying or service process more efficiently.
Key Takeaways
- Wickstrom Auto Group operates multiple dealership locations, each with separate sales, financing, and service departments.
- You can purchase new or used vehicles and arrange financing directly through the dealership, or bring your own lender.
- Trade-in vehicles are evaluated on-site, and the value offered depends on the vehicle's condition, mileage, and current market demand.
- Service departments handle routine maintenance, repairs, and warranty work, and you can schedule appointments online or by phone.
- Prices and inventory vary by location, so contacting your nearest dealership directly will give you accurate information for your specific needs.
Finding Your Nearest Wickstrom Location
Wickstrom Auto Group operates dealerships in several cities across the region. To find the location closest to you, search online for "Wickstrom Auto Group" followed by your city name, or visit the main Wickstrom website to see a list of all operating dealerships. Each location has its own phone number, hours, and inventory.
Calling ahead before you visit saves time. You can ask whether a specific vehicle is in stock, confirm current hours, or schedule a test drive. Many locations also have online inventory tools where you can browse available vehicles and filter by price, mileage, color, and features before you arrive.
How the Sales Process Works
When you arrive at a Wickstrom dealership to buy a vehicle, a sales representative will greet you and ask what you are looking for. Be clear about your budget, the type of vehicle you need, and any must-have features. The salesperson will show you available options and answer questions about each vehicle's history, features, and condition.
If you find a vehicle you want to test drive, the dealership will verify your driver's license and insurance, then hand you the keys. Test drives typically last 15 to 30 minutes. After you return, if you are interested in moving forward, the sales team will discuss price. This is where negotiation happens — the initial asking price is not always the final price. Be prepared to discuss trade-in value if you are bringing a vehicle, and ask about current promotions or incentives the dealership is running.
Once you agree on a price, you will move to the finance office to arrange payment. You can finance through the dealership's lenders, bring your own financing from a bank or credit union, or pay cash. The finance manager will explain loan terms, interest rates, and any add-ons like extended warranties or service packages. Read all documents carefully before signing.
Understanding Trade-In and Financing Options
If you are trading in a vehicle, the dealership will inspect it and offer a value based on its condition, mileage, service history, and current market demand. This offer is separate from the price of the vehicle you are buying. The trade-in value reduces the amount you owe on your new purchase. You can accept the offer, decline it, or negotiate — just as you would with the sale price itself.
For financing, Wickstrom dealerships work with multiple lenders and can present you with several loan options. Compare the interest rates, loan terms (typically 36 to 84 months), and monthly payments across all offers before choosing. If you have already secured financing elsewhere, tell the dealership upfront — they will work with your lender to complete the paperwork. Bringing your own financing sometimes gives you better rates, especially if you have good credit.
What to Bring When You Visit
Bring your driver's license and proof of insurance before you test drive any vehicle. If you are trading in a car, bring the title, registration, and keys. If you plan to finance through the dealership, have recent pay stubs, tax returns, and proof of residence available — the finance office will ask for these to verify income and process your loan.
If you are bringing your own financing, contact your lender beforehand to confirm they will work with the dealership and understand what paperwork they need. Some credit unions and banks have specific requirements or may need to verify the vehicle before approving the loan. Having this sorted before you arrive at the dealership speeds up the final paperwork.
Service and Maintenance After Purchase
After you buy a vehicle from Wickstrom, you can use the dealership's service department for maintenance, repairs, and warranty work. Schedule appointments online through the dealership's website or call the service line directly. Most locations offer convenient hours, including early morning and evening slots, and some offer loaner vehicles while yours is being serviced.
Bring your vehicle's keys and explain what needs attention. The service advisor will write up a work order, inspect the vehicle, and provide an estimate before work begins. If your vehicle is still under warranty, warranty coverage may explore to certain repairs at no cost to you. Ask the service advisor which repairs are covered before authorizing any work.
Common Questions About Pricing and Policies
Prices at Wickstrom dealerships are set by each individual location and reflect current market conditions, vehicle demand, and inventory levels. This means the same model may be priced differently at different Wickstrom locations. Call or visit the specific dealership to get accurate pricing for the vehicle you want.
Return policies, warranty terms, and service guarantees vary by location and by the vehicle itself. New vehicles typically come with a manufacturer's warranty, while used vehicles may have a dealership warranty or be sold as-is. Ask about the specific warranty on any vehicle before you buy, and request a copy of all warranty terms in writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a vehicle online from Wickstrom Auto Group?
Most Wickstrom locations do not offer fully online purchases, but many allow you to reserve a vehicle online or arrange financing pre-approval before you visit. Contact your nearest dealership to ask what online options they offer. Some locations may deliver vehicles to your home after purchase, though this varies by location.
What if I have bad credit or no credit history?
Wickstrom dealerships work with multiple lenders, including those who specialize in financing for people with lower credit scores. The interest rate you receive will depend on your credit profile, income, and the vehicle you are buying. Be honest with the finance manager about your situation — they can present options that may work for you.
Do I have to buy a vehicle the same day I visit?
No. You can visit to look around, test drive, and ask questions without any obligation to purchase. If you want time to think or compare options at other dealerships, you can leave and return later. However, if you find a vehicle you want, the dealership may hold it for a short time if you ask — confirm the hold period and any conditions.
What happens if something goes wrong with my vehicle after I buy it?
If the vehicle is still under warranty, contact the service department to schedule a repair. Warranty coverage depends on the terms of your specific warranty and the type of repair needed. If the vehicle is no longer under warranty, you can still use the service department for repairs, though you will pay for parts and labor. Ask about service guarantees or warranties on any repair work performed.
Can I negotiate the price of a used vehicle?
Yes. The asking price is a starting point, not a final offer. Research the vehicle's market value using tools like Kelley Blue Book or NADA Guides before you visit, then use that information in your negotiation. Be respectful and realistic — dealerships have limits on how far they can move on price, but most expect some back-and-forth.