Mike thecarguy
Once in a while I get it right and some of my customers and colleagues have been kind enough to share it! In the past 30 years of this there have been a few times when those kind words have been worth recognition themselves, these are a few...
Many Thanks for the amazing kindness shared by all these great folks! :)
Many Thanks for the amazing kindness shared by all these great folks! :)
Robert Ruvacalba - Director of Sales
"Mike theCarGuy is an invaluable resource to any business in need of his services. He understands the importance of online presence and reputation management for dealerships. He continuously invests in himself to stay up to date with trends and technology. I've had the opportunity to work with him directly when I worked at Cars.com and I always appreciated his work ethic and attention to detail as well as his drive to deliver growth and sales. We have kept in touch over the years and I recommend him to any dealership that is looking to reach todays innovative ways of doing business through social platforms and marketing at a higher level.
~ 3/20/2018: Robert Ruvalcaba, Director of Sales Western Region at ADSMOVIL - Hispanic Mobile Advertising Solutions
~ 3/20/2018: Robert Ruvalcaba, Director of Sales Western Region at ADSMOVIL - Hispanic Mobile Advertising Solutions
Pete Hernandez - Automotive Sales Manager
"I have worked hand in hand with Mike The Car Guy. Mike The Car Guy has never been afraid of change, always looking forward to the future of the car business. Understanding how social media is future of interaction between customer and dealer. Keeping the message clear. Thank you Mike for all the doors you have opened and sharing your knowledge to make me better."
~3/01/2018: Pete Hernandez IV
~3/01/2018: Pete Hernandez IV
Mark Chiongson - Automotive Sales Manager
"I've known Mike theCarGuy for almost a decade and I firmly believe he is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the automotive business and social media. He is quite literally a one man team when it comes to social media presence and has impressed many e-commerce directors for major automotive brands on the corporate level. As far as automotive sales and mechanic knowledge, he is equivalent to your own Top Gear, Grand Tour, etc all put together. Mike is the best professional I know of and there are still many who wish they were still under his management. In my honest opinion, if you choose someone else over Mike you are making a conscious decision towards less quality."
~ 02/28/2018: Mark Chiongson
~ 02/28/2018: Mark Chiongson
Kathi Kruse - Kruse Control, Inc.
“Mike is one of the best dealership managers I've ever known. His talent lies in his 25 years of auto retail (both Sales and Fixed Ops) coupled with his adaptation to and prowess in Social Media marketing. Mike understands on an intuitive level, how today's customer shops for and purchases their vehicle. He inherently knows how to capture their attention and develop lasting sales relationships. He's been present and active on every Social platform: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Yelp, Google (just to name a few) for 6 years. He is a master blogger and can teach the technique of blogging to others, thereby enhancing the store's online reputation. He motivates his staff and gives them the tools they need to succeed. Mike would be a valuable asset to any store who wants to increase sales and develop a community of advocates who spread the good word to their friends and family.” January 20, 2017 Kathi Kruse, President, Kruse Control Inc.
Terry Lancaster
"It's not often that you get to meet someone that has both decades of experience in the car business AND a keen DNA level understanding of the new sales funnel. Mike is that Car Guy. He combines the best of the old and new schools. He's battle proven without being battle weary. Mike exudes a genuine love for cars, the car business and for people. If you're in sales, you're in the making friends business and Mike is a master at the making friends in the digital era whether they're across the street or across the continent. His unique skill set makes him an invaluable team member." Terry Lancaster. #1 Best Selling Author | Keynote Speaker | The VP of Making Sh!t Happen. April 14, 2017
Michael Dukes
"Mike "The Car Guy" Correra is one of the finest individuals I've met in the car business over the last 20 years. I am often impressed with Mike's skill sets with the sales process, digital marketing awareness, and wealth of knowledge within the auto industry. His ability to apply this knowledge, to run a dealerships business like the old car dogs want their business run, is quite remarkable." Michael Dukes, Vice President Business Development at Hype Media Group. February 12, 2016
Mark Chupeyda aka New Car Mark
"Mike has exceptional knowledge of the Automotive Industry as well as top level Sales Management, Digital Marketing and Business Development experience. I am impressed with his willingness and up front positive attitude. Mike takes all necessary steps to accomplish success and is serious about the success of his company and all of the people around him. Mike is a TruePro; Progressive, Intelligent and a Thoughtful Leader." Mark Chupeyda, Process Improvement Consultant. October 22, 2015
Gary Watts, Franchise Account Manager
"I was privileged to work with Mike. I was amazed at his constant "High Gear" energy. His talent to see an opportunity to improve a department, process, or a singular car deal is unsurpassed. Mike expects excellence from his team and himself but only coached and led from a upbeat and positive direction. I have sat through many a manager meeting with pounding fists and expletives regarding performance, and NEVER with Mike. His record of success can be quantified, his skills evaluated but Mike's eternal optimism is the intrinsic "It Factor" that will make him one if your companies most valued assets!
Thanks Mike! " Gary Watts August 17, 2012
Thanks Mike! " Gary Watts August 17, 2012
Jim Radogna - Dealer Compliance Consultants, Inc.
“In my many years working in the automotive industry, I've had the opportunity to observe thousands of sales and management professionals. Mike really is at the head of the pack. His commitment to exemplary customer service and passion for excellence is beyond impressive. I first got to know Mike by reading his insightful blogs and appreciated his sharing of his vast knowledge and experience. Unlike many veterans who are happy doing things the way "they've always been done", Mike is constantly seeking to better himself and find more ways to serve his customers. I never hestitate to recommend Mike to anyone in the market for a new or used vehicle, or to any automotive professional seeking to learn a better way of doing business. He exemplifies all that is good in the auto industry.” September 3, 2011 Jim Radogna, President, Dealer Compliance Consultants, Inc.
Johnny R. 2010 Forte
"Allstar Kia is a beacon of light in an otherwise dark auto center! When looking for a graduation gift for our daughter we decided the Forte would be a great car and headed all the way out to Riverside to look at one. We loved the car but not the deal and came back to S.B. thinking we would settle on a Sentra and drove to the local auto center, low and behold there's a new Kia dealer here in town! They had the exact Forte she wanted and Mike made the deal unbelievable! The staff at Allstar far and away exceeds the level of professionalism I have ever encountered at a car dealership and we will surely tell everyone about our experience at Allstar. They live up to their name! Thanks Mike!"
Posted at MerchantCircle.com
Posted at MerchantCircle.com
Chuck C
“Mike is a dedicated professional. He strives for 100% customer satisfaction and I dare say he achieves it. If you need it, he will help make it happen if it is within his power. I have worked for him, bought cars from him, and taken close friends to buy cars from him and I recommend him to all of my family and friends.” February 23, 2011
Posted at LinkedIn.com
Posted at LinkedIn.com
Amber and Dan J. 2010 Forte
"Thanks for all your help Mike, we are so happy with our new Forte, I might just keep it for myself and not let Dan drive it at all!"
Joe Sayles - Automotive Sales Professional
“Mike is an awesome package of Knowledge, Energy, and Action. His extensive knowledge of the automotive industry is fascinating. His efforts in Social Media and Internet Marketing are unrivaled and inspiring. Mike is a go-getter who is constantly exploring the reaches of the latest technologies to make gains in his automotive pursuits. He uses his knowledge of IM techniques and analytics to improve the Internet Departments where ever his is employed. Mike is truly an inspiration to any staff he is leading and he will always be an incredible asset to those who value his skills.” November 19, 2011 Joe Sayles, Sales Representative, Allstar Kia
Brook D. Dodge Caliber, First Car!
"To whom it may concern,
I recently purchased a used vehicle from Mike Correra, and it was a great experience! I'm a college student and was looking for an affordable, but cute, used vehicle. I let Mr. Correra know what I wanted and he did the rest! He went above and beyond in finding me excellent financing at an affordable rate, and also found me a "cute" car! I was a little anxious about looking for a car at first because I had never done anything like this on my own, but Mike made it as easy as tying my shoes! Not only was the buying of the vehicle easy and nice, but everything after has been just as smooth. Everything has worked out the way he said it would and there have been no bad surprises with my vehicle. Everyone in my family owns a car sold by Mr. Correra, including my grandparents and all of us are happy as can be. I would and will always recommend Mr. Correra to anyone I know who is looking for a new or used car."
Thank you Brook, I very much appreciate you AND your families trust and value your business! :)
I recently purchased a used vehicle from Mike Correra, and it was a great experience! I'm a college student and was looking for an affordable, but cute, used vehicle. I let Mr. Correra know what I wanted and he did the rest! He went above and beyond in finding me excellent financing at an affordable rate, and also found me a "cute" car! I was a little anxious about looking for a car at first because I had never done anything like this on my own, but Mike made it as easy as tying my shoes! Not only was the buying of the vehicle easy and nice, but everything after has been just as smooth. Everything has worked out the way he said it would and there have been no bad surprises with my vehicle. Everyone in my family owns a car sold by Mr. Correra, including my grandparents and all of us are happy as can be. I would and will always recommend Mr. Correra to anyone I know who is looking for a new or used car."
Thank you Brook, I very much appreciate you AND your families trust and value your business! :)
Jason Cliff, Direct Marketing Copywriter - Online Sales Marketing Expert
"Michael has consistently been thoughtful, diligent and committed to the project he is working on. Michael is a great trainer and is committed to the success of the people who with and for him." March 13, 2010
Stephanie N. 2009 Rio
"woo my car! :)
All Star Kia is amazing and I recommend them to all :)
thanks mike!"
Good luck at college Stephanie!
All Star Kia is amazing and I recommend them to all :)
thanks mike!"
Good luck at college Stephanie!
Dianna S. 2010 Sentra 2.0S (her first NEW car!)
Dianna was so torn between the Aspen White and the Magnetic Gray that she had her sister take a picture of both and send it to their mom and family for their help making the decision! After many hours of deliberation she went with the Gray and LOVES IT! Its always great to help folks get their very first new car and it didnt take Dianna but a day to write me with this;
"I was working with a lot of dealers trying to find the most competitive deal and Raceway offered the best. Many of the dealers that I working with made my first car buying experience a nightmare, however, Mike Correra, put me at ease and made the experience of buying a car a pleasure. Thank you."
Thank YOU Dianna! :)
"I was working with a lot of dealers trying to find the most competitive deal and Raceway offered the best. Many of the dealers that I working with made my first car buying experience a nightmare, however, Mike Correra, put me at ease and made the experience of buying a car a pleasure. Thank you."
Thank YOU Dianna! :)
Heather Kane - Dealix
"Michael is exceptional to work with. He is extremely educated in marketing for dealers as well as managing and handling customers and other employees with the utmost respect. Michael is a great person to turn opportunities into closed sales. I would recommend Michael for any person who was looking to complete and close business.” October 28, 2009 Heather Kane, Territory Sales Executive, Dealix
Arthur K. 2009 Altima 2.5S (loaded!)
My good friend and longtime customer (see him also below) Arthur just picked up a really nice Altima for him and his wonderful family. As I always do after my folks drive off in a new car I sent him a lil thank you email and got this as a reply:
"No, thank you! You are a real stand-up guy, a quality human being, and by far the best at what you do. I will never buy a car from anyone else until you are dead, or retired!"
WOW, thanks for the very kind words Arthur!
"No, thank you! You are a real stand-up guy, a quality human being, and by far the best at what you do. I will never buy a car from anyone else until you are dead, or retired!"
WOW, thanks for the very kind words Arthur!
Lucienne A. 2009 Honda Element
Rare is the occasion of such a perfect match of car and customer as is the case with Lucienne and her new Element! A surfing college professor that rides a bike to school equipped with a basket, the Element was the best reflection of her, her lifestyle and the only vehicle that looks so darn cute with a surf rack on top! Here is an excerpt from her letter, she promised me pics of the Element at the beach too so stay tuned...
"Hey Mike!
I took Lulu (that's pearl in Arabic) surfing this weekend up to C Street and Leo Carillo Beach! Although Lulu isn't in the attached picture, this is what the waves were doing on Sunday! Of course, you and Lulu get some credit for this shot too.
Thank you for letting me drive Lulu my style to get a true sense of her talents, and the next shot I send you will have her in it. Nice meeting you and wish you and your family happy travels.
Maybe I'll see you out in the water one day!"
Lucienne A.
"Hey Mike!
I took Lulu (that's pearl in Arabic) surfing this weekend up to C Street and Leo Carillo Beach! Although Lulu isn't in the attached picture, this is what the waves were doing on Sunday! Of course, you and Lulu get some credit for this shot too.
Thank you for letting me drive Lulu my style to get a true sense of her talents, and the next shot I send you will have her in it. Nice meeting you and wish you and your family happy travels.
Maybe I'll see you out in the water one day!"
Lucienne A.
Pete H. 2009 Honda Fit
I actually stumbled on my own review from this customer on DealerRater.com and thought it was worth posting here.
Reason for Visit: Sales (New)
I recommend this dealer: Yes
My Review of Colonial Honda:
a long and nasty email exchange with another honda dealer was turning buying a new car into the worst experience EVER, enter Mike Correra at Colonial Honda, Day Saved and a customer for life found! one email, one call and one hour to a new car! SWEET! so worth the drive and parking hassle, Mike makes car buying a good thing, even fun!
Reason for Visit: Sales (New)
I recommend this dealer: Yes
My Review of Colonial Honda:
a long and nasty email exchange with another honda dealer was turning buying a new car into the worst experience EVER, enter Mike Correra at Colonial Honda, Day Saved and a customer for life found! one email, one call and one hour to a new car! SWEET! so worth the drive and parking hassle, Mike makes car buying a good thing, even fun!
Dan and Jeannie R. 2007 SRT8 Grand Cherokee AND Civic Si
From a letter written to Chrysler Mtr Corp.
To: John D. Pleacha
Director of Jeep Marketing
Dear Mr. Plecha,
The experience I received at Moss Bros. Jeep in Moreno Valley was extraordinary in many ways. I have purchased many vehicles in my life but never have I been treated with such professionalism and out right integrity as I have at this dealership. I would like to mention three outstanding individuals; Dave Oley (GM), Wendell Wright (Service Dir.) and especially Mike A. Correra the Fleet Sales director......... And most importantly, I would like to tell you about the experience I received from Mike Correra, this gentleman is truly an asset to Moss Bros. When I first met Mike I did not expect the level of respect that he held for his customers. I was very impressed with his product knowledge and the thing that sticks out most in my mind is that Mike did not ever over promise and under deliver in fact quite the contrary, he exceeded every expectation possible. And that is the reason I am his lifetime customer, if you dont belive me I even went as far as purchasing another vehicle from him that very same day! Just to let you know, I am the Operations Manager for a top retail tire comapny, so cultivationg relationships with customers is my number one priority, because we all know that word of mouth from happy customers is better than any advertisment money can buy. I close this letter and let you know that I am a customer for life.
Dan R.
March 20, 2007
To: John D. Pleacha
Director of Jeep Marketing
Dear Mr. Plecha,
The experience I received at Moss Bros. Jeep in Moreno Valley was extraordinary in many ways. I have purchased many vehicles in my life but never have I been treated with such professionalism and out right integrity as I have at this dealership. I would like to mention three outstanding individuals; Dave Oley (GM), Wendell Wright (Service Dir.) and especially Mike A. Correra the Fleet Sales director......... And most importantly, I would like to tell you about the experience I received from Mike Correra, this gentleman is truly an asset to Moss Bros. When I first met Mike I did not expect the level of respect that he held for his customers. I was very impressed with his product knowledge and the thing that sticks out most in my mind is that Mike did not ever over promise and under deliver in fact quite the contrary, he exceeded every expectation possible. And that is the reason I am his lifetime customer, if you dont belive me I even went as far as purchasing another vehicle from him that very same day! Just to let you know, I am the Operations Manager for a top retail tire comapny, so cultivationg relationships with customers is my number one priority, because we all know that word of mouth from happy customers is better than any advertisment money can buy. I close this letter and let you know that I am a customer for life.
Dan R.
March 20, 2007
Christine Haro - The Press Enterprise
“Michael is a highly motivated and dedicated professional. His geniune dedication to providing nothing less than excellence in customer service makes him a terrific sales professional and excellent team leader. I will absolutely continue to send my friends and family to him to be intrusted in his care.” March 24, 2008 Christine Haro, Automotive Account Executive, The Press Enterprise
Ken B. 2006 Charger SXT
From Car Domain.com...
"lemme tell ya mah story. See I had the hottest Stratus here in the Inland Empire, but I finally had to acknowledge that no matter how bitchen it was it was STILL a Stratus! So, called mah man Mike Correra at Moss Bros, he is soooo the shit(!), and he got me SET UP with my new 2006 Charger SXT! 1st and foremost, baam (!) 22's! Yup then had to go see Steve at Sounds Plus in Redlands to get my ears handled, BIG THANX SNDS PLUS!!!!! Next up I had to deck out the deck lid wit dat cool lip spoiler u see here along wit a new grill. All I've had time for yet but dont u worry, theres plenty mo on the way!!!"
See the page for Kens Charger at:
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2386206
"lemme tell ya mah story. See I had the hottest Stratus here in the Inland Empire, but I finally had to acknowledge that no matter how bitchen it was it was STILL a Stratus! So, called mah man Mike Correra at Moss Bros, he is soooo the shit(!), and he got me SET UP with my new 2006 Charger SXT! 1st and foremost, baam (!) 22's! Yup then had to go see Steve at Sounds Plus in Redlands to get my ears handled, BIG THANX SNDS PLUS!!!!! Next up I had to deck out the deck lid wit dat cool lip spoiler u see here along wit a new grill. All I've had time for yet but dont u worry, theres plenty mo on the way!!!"
See the page for Kens Charger at:
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2386206
Vic R. 2006 Charger R/T
From Car Domain.com...
Just got her back and had to show her off! I have been waiting for this car for a long time, yes there are faster, yes there may be cleaner rides, but this one is MINE! The guy I bought from is very cool, Mike Correra, if ANYONE is looking for a car call him (or e-mail em, no1dodgeboy@hotmail.com), he put so much effort into helping me it was like HE was getting HIS dream car! First thing first I had a rear deck spoiler painted and installed, agian with Mike's help and his employee discount! Then we had to make sure she's riding pretty on these SWEET 22's!"
See the page Vic has for his Charger here;
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2385675
Just got her back and had to show her off! I have been waiting for this car for a long time, yes there are faster, yes there may be cleaner rides, but this one is MINE! The guy I bought from is very cool, Mike Correra, if ANYONE is looking for a car call him (or e-mail em, no1dodgeboy@hotmail.com), he put so much effort into helping me it was like HE was getting HIS dream car! First thing first I had a rear deck spoiler painted and installed, agian with Mike's help and his employee discount! Then we had to make sure she's riding pretty on these SWEET 22's!"
See the page Vic has for his Charger here;
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2385675
Chris S. 2006 Caliber SXT
From Car Domain.com...
"First of all, the guy I bought from, Mike Correra is the BEST(!). This is the 3rd car I have got from him and I wont ever buy from anyone else, having said that (Happy Mike?!) Now that its mine, just got my payment book in the mail (whew!), I can start makin her look GOOOOOD! Yes as a matter of fact those are 20's!"
See the page Chris has for his car here:
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2385672
"First of all, the guy I bought from, Mike Correra is the BEST(!). This is the 3rd car I have got from him and I wont ever buy from anyone else, having said that (Happy Mike?!) Now that its mine, just got my payment book in the mail (whew!), I can start makin her look GOOOOOD! Yes as a matter of fact those are 20's!"
See the page Chris has for his car here:
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2385672
Aurthur K. 2005 Accord EX
A letter written to the GM
Mr. McCarty, (General Mngr, Penske Honda)
I usually don't take time to write letters to people, but I thought because of my unique experience at Penske Honda it would be the right thing to do.I bought my first new car when I turned 18, and since then I have owned two Toyota's, three Nissan's, a Volkswagen, and three Honda's. In my 13 years as an automobile purchaser and owner, I have never had a better experience than I did at Penske Honda. I began my search for a new car more out of curiosity than need. And it was just by luck that I e-mailed Penske Honda about a quote for a 5-speed Honda Accord EX. I received quotes from three dealerships (Rock & Carson being the other two) and Penske had the most competitive price. Over the next several weeks I received correspondence from Michael Correra. He was always professional, never pushy, and ALWAYS went above and beyond to answer every question I presented him with. When the fateful day came to purchase my new car, I met Michael for the first time. He was polite, friendly, and made me feel like family. There was no pressure, no tricks, and in the end, no reason not to buy a car from Penske Honda! Michael was the best salesperson I have ever worked with, and my experience at Penske was the best ever. I am writing this letter to you for two reasons. The first is that I think too often when people do a good job they aren't recognized, and Michael Correra deserves to be recognized for his outstanding demeanor. The second reason is because I want you to know that not only will I buy all my future cars at Penske Honda, but I have gone out of my way to rave about how wonderful the experience was to everybody I know. It is with sincerity that I recommend your dealership to anybody that will listen to me!
I just wanted to thank you, and Michael, for the great experience.
Best Regards,
Arthur K
Oct, 2005
Mr. McCarty, (General Mngr, Penske Honda)
I usually don't take time to write letters to people, but I thought because of my unique experience at Penske Honda it would be the right thing to do.I bought my first new car when I turned 18, and since then I have owned two Toyota's, three Nissan's, a Volkswagen, and three Honda's. In my 13 years as an automobile purchaser and owner, I have never had a better experience than I did at Penske Honda. I began my search for a new car more out of curiosity than need. And it was just by luck that I e-mailed Penske Honda about a quote for a 5-speed Honda Accord EX. I received quotes from three dealerships (Rock & Carson being the other two) and Penske had the most competitive price. Over the next several weeks I received correspondence from Michael Correra. He was always professional, never pushy, and ALWAYS went above and beyond to answer every question I presented him with. When the fateful day came to purchase my new car, I met Michael for the first time. He was polite, friendly, and made me feel like family. There was no pressure, no tricks, and in the end, no reason not to buy a car from Penske Honda! Michael was the best salesperson I have ever worked with, and my experience at Penske was the best ever. I am writing this letter to you for two reasons. The first is that I think too often when people do a good job they aren't recognized, and Michael Correra deserves to be recognized for his outstanding demeanor. The second reason is because I want you to know that not only will I buy all my future cars at Penske Honda, but I have gone out of my way to rave about how wonderful the experience was to everybody I know. It is with sincerity that I recommend your dealership to anybody that will listen to me!
I just wanted to thank you, and Michael, for the great experience.
Best Regards,
Arthur K
Oct, 2005
