Written by: Christella Morris | Mills Motors Buick GMC Ltd | Oshawa | Whitby | Clarington

In this new feature on Skidmarx, Meet You At Mills, we take a closer look at members of the Mills Motors team, from our sales staff to the admin team and into the service department. Each member of our team plays an integral role in staying true to the concept of “Whatever It Takes” and we’d like for you to get to know them as we have.

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Whenever we buy used cars or get trade-in’s, have service appointments and our customer’s car needs a cleanup, we have a team of vehicle detail specialists who are responsible for making each vehicle look brand new. One of these “Vehicle Preparation Specialists” is Mills’ own Shane Clarke.  We sat down with Shane to chat about the best and worst parts of his job, life at Mills and more!

Mills Motors (MM): How long have you been working at Mills? 

Shane Clarke (SC): I’ve worked here twice! First time I was here for 2 ½ years, this time I’ve been working here for a year so far.

MM: How did you get started in Vehicle Detailing?

SC: My Grandpa, my Dad both loved cars… cars have been a part of my whole life, since I was a kid. I’ve been working on cars since I was 5 years old!

MM: Where did you grow up?

SC: Grew up in Muskoka, moved to Oshawa when I was 12.

MM: What is your favourite vehicle that we sell currently?

SC: I’m really excited for the 2014 GMC Sierra Denali edition! It’s a beautifully made vehicle.

MM: What is your favourite part of being a Vehicle Preparation Specialist?

SC: Making customers happy!

MM: What are two words that most people would think of if asked to describe you?

SC: Energetic and Hard-Working!

MM: How do you think most people see the service departments in car dealerships? Is it accurate?

SC: I think our customers have high expectations of our value, and I always try to meet or surpass them!

MM: What is your favourite part about working at Mills Motors?

SC: I think there is a good solid group of employees here! They’re very skilled at what they do and always do a great job! Both sales and service!

MM: What does the promise of “Whatever It Takes” mean to you?

SC: Whatever it takes to get the job done and make the customer happy! Leaving them with the impression that we did a great job and this is the best place to come for their vehicle maintenance and repairs.

MM: How many vehicles, on average, do you work with daily?

SC: It all depends on sales and service. 12-13 per day is my average, but if sales is busy or has a lot of trades, it can be 20 or more!

MM: We’ve covered the best part, so tell us what the worst part of your job is!

SC: No air conditioning on hot summer days! I’m always in and out so the heat is a lot to handle sometimes! Working in water can also sometimes be aggravating [to my skin.]

MM: If you could be ANY superhero, who would you be?

SC: Superman! He saves the world and I like to think I help save the sales and service teams! Haha.

MM: What’s your best piece of advice for someone who’s trying to keep their vehicle neat & tidy?

SC: Always keep a garbage bag or can in your car and napkins, wipes or a rag for spills.

MM: Tell us an interesting fact about yourself!

SC: I’m a huge UFC fan! My favourite fighter is Rampage Jackson.

Thanks to Shane for sitting down with us! If you’d like to learn more about vehicle detailing or tips and tricks for maintaining your car, visit our website here: http://www.millsbuickgmc.com

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When it comes to the service department here at Mills Motors, we pride ourselves on having a full team of experts here to help our customers. From detailers to body repair specialists to Goodwrench Technicians, we try to meet all of our customer’s service and repair needs. One such Goodwrench Technician is Brandon Cordick! We sat down (beside, really) with Brandon to chat with him a bit about his experience so far at Mills…

Mills Motors (MM): How long have you been working at Mills?
Brandon Cordick (BC): Almost 3 years now.

MM: How did you get started in service/repair?
BC: I got started through doing a program in high school that helps you get an apprenticeship in the trade.

MM: Where did you grow up?
BC: Oshawa

MM: What car do you currently drive?
BC: I actually don’t currently have a car! I live really close to work, so I just walk!

MM: What is your favourite part of being a Goodwrench Technician?
BC: Helping customers who are at their wits end! They can’t do anything else [with their car] and they need someone to help them and I can do it! I like turning horrible days into great ones [for our customers.]

MM: What are two words that most people would think of if asked to describe you?
BC: Reliable and Outgoing!

MM: How do you think most people see the service departments in car dealerships? Is it accurate?
BC: Historically, customers who got work done at a dealership believed they were paying more because they wanted the expertise of the factory trained techs. Today, customers not only get our expertise, but the bonus part is that our rates are competitive with and often lower than independent shops.  At Mills, at least, we’re here to fix a concern, do it right the first time and in the most cost-effective way we can.

MM: What is your favourite part about working at Mills Motors?
BC: The team environment! Also, everyone has a lot of knowledge [in their specialities], everyone knows their area and it flows very well. Of course everyone here is friendly and it’s just a great environment!

MM: What does the promise of “Whatever It Takes” mean to you?
BC: It means that I’m gonna do whatever I can… whatever is needed to get customers in and out in a good time with them leaving very happy. If I have to work through my lunch, work late or come in early, the service advisors know that they can promise that and I will do it every time. I will do what I have to if it means the job gets done right.

MM: How many vehicles, on average, do you work with daily?
BC: I usually work on 15-20 vehicles daily. It depends on how busy we are, but that’s the average.

MM: We’ve covered the best part, so tell us what the worst part of your job is!
BC: Getting covered in oil! Getting dirty is okay, it’s a part of the job, but when you get even dirtier, like when an oil pan spills when I’m taking it off, and SPLAT!  Drenched in oil! That’s the worst part!

MM: If you could be ANY superhero, who would you be?
BC: Spiderman! ‘Cause of the webs! You could do whatever you wanted!

MM: What’s your best piece of advice for someone who’s having their car repaired?
BC: Make sure you are seeing a professional! Those backyard/neighbourhood mechanics, which do it for fun or in their spare time, may not always know what they are talking about. Even if they have the best intentions and you want to save money, it could end up costing more in the long run. Or worse, it could put you or your family’s safety at risk.

MM: Tell us an interesting fact about yourself!
BC:  “I’m single, Ladies!”

Well, there you have it! Another great interview with another GREAT (and single!) employee at Mills Motors.

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Thanks for reading! We hope you stop by again soon!

Want more? Why don’t you visit our website and you can learn more about Mills Motors and our history!

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Meet Dax Wasylyk, Business Manager here at Mills Motors.

Dax Wasylyk helps customers find financing on their vehicles, buy warranties and extended warranties, and more.

Every individual on our Sales and Service teams play an integral role in fulfilling our “Whatever It Takes” promise. One of the key positions in seeing that promise through is as a Business Manager in our finance department. As one of the Business Managers at Mills, Dax Wasylyk is responsible for seeing each customer gets the financing they need to purchase their vehicles, warranties and more. Dax sat down with us to tell us a bit more about his experience at Mills and in the auto industry…

Mills Motors (MM): How long have you been working at Mills? 

Dax Wasylyk (DW): This is my 14^th year at Mills.

MM: How did you get started in finance/business management?

DW: I was previously an insurance agent. The auto industry is definitely more fun!

MM: Where did you grow up?

DW: Oshawa

MM: Tell us an interesting fact about yourself!

DW: I’ve played hockey my whole life. I also enjoy playing guitar.

MM: What car do you currently drive?

DW: 2013 GMC Terrain – It’s very versatile!

MM: What is your favourite part of being a business manager?

DW: Working with the public!

MM: What are two words that most people would think of if asked to describe you?

DW: Motivated/Organized.

MM: How do you think most people see the finance department in car dealerships? Is it accurate?

DW: I think people are skeptical about rates. We give full disclosure every time! In most cases, banks tell customers to deal with us because our rates are better.

MM: What is your favourite part about working at Mills Motors?

DW: It’s a great family-oriented environment.

MM: What does the promise of “Whatever It Takes” mean to you?

DW: When I’m working to get people approved financing for their vehicles, going the extra mile to ensure we can secure financing for all customers.

MM: How many people, on average, do you work with daily?

DW: It varies, on average there can be 5-10 people in my office on any given day. Sometimes more!

MM: We’ve covered the best part, so tell us what the worst part of your job is!

DW: When I’m unable to get a customer financed, that’s the worst part. Sometimes even after you’ve explored every option it just doesn’t work.

MM: If you could be ANY superhero, who would you be?

DW: The Invisible Man! I like helping people, but I don’t need the accolades for doing so.

MM: What’s your best piece of advice for someone who’s starting the buying process?

DW: Make sure you know what it is you’re looking for from a vehicle, and drive it. No matter what a car looks like, the most important thing is knowing you’re comfortable driving it.

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Thanks for reading! We hope you stop by again soon!

Want more? Why don’t you visit our website and you can learn more about Mills Motors and our history!

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Meet Sara Jobb-Jenkins, Sales Assistant here at Mills Motors. Sara is part of the Jobb family here at Mills, which includes her brother, her uncle and her father. We will meet each of them in later editions of Meet You At Mills. For now, let’s get to know Sara a little bit more, shall we?

We asked Sara to answer a few questions for us about her job and what she enjoys about working at Mills! Read below!

Mills Motors (MM): How long have you been working at Mills? 

Sara Jobb-Jenkins (SJ): 2.5 Years, but my family (my Dad) has been working with Mills since 1995!

MM: How did you get started in the automotive industry?

SJ: I was hired to assist my Dad in everyday sales. Over time the opportunity to work in the business/financing side of things presented itself, so it made it easier to create our own team.

MM: Where did you grow up?

SJ: Oshawa and Bowmanville

MM: What car do you currently drive?

SJ: 2013 GMC Terrain! I have to say that the back seat has SO MUCH ROOM! I have 3 daughters and we all fit comfortably and it’s great on fuel, too!

MM: What is your favourite part of being a Sales Assistant?

SJ: I get to work with my family every day!

MM: What are two words that most people would think of if asked to describe you?

SJ: My brother (Ryan) says I’m patient. I’d like to think that I’m a good multi-tasker.

MM: How do you think most people see sales departments in car dealerships? Is it accurate?

SJ: Most customers are nervous to enter a business office, but they shouldn’t be! We’re here to help you and can likely assist you with a ton of things, like your credit score for instance. We try to educate our customers about different financing options, warranties and anything else we can help with!

MM: What is your favourite part about working at Mills Motors?

SJ: It’s a great team environment! I love the staff. You can be your own person here, for sure!

MM: What does the Mills Motors promise of “Whatever It Takes” mean to you?

SJ: It means getting the customer the BEST price and the BEST service every time!

MM: How many people, on average, do you work with daily?

SJ: My Dad may sell up to 20-30 cars per month, so between financing, customer service and sales, it can be A LOT.

MM: We’ve covered the best part, so tell us what the worst part of your job is!

SJ: Not being able to finance someone. Letting a customer down when we can’t come through with their financing feels terrible!

MM: If you could be ANY superhero, who would you be?

SJ: Jem from Jem and the Holograms!

MM: What’s your best piece of advice for someone who’s having their car serviced or repaired? / thinking about buying a car?

SJ: Know what you’re looking for! You can shop online and figure out exactly what you need and what you want before you ever step in the store.

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Thanks for reading! We hope you stop by again soon!

Want more? Why don’t you visit our website and you can learn more about Mills Motors and our history!

 Mills Motors Buick GMC Ltd. | Oshawa, On

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Thanks for stopping by the Blog! Our newest team member to hit the pages of Skidmarx is Service Advisor Jeremy Oliver. Jeremy spends his time at Mills Motors working in our Service Drive Thru where he assists our customers with regular maintenance services, repairs and a variety of other things. Jeremy is one of the first people you see upon entering our service department and our customers love him!

We asked Jeremy to answer a few questions about himself so you could get to know him better. Next time you pull into the service department, let him know you read the blog!

Mills Motors (MM): How long have you been working at Mills? 

Jeremy Oliver (JO): I’ve been working here for 4 years.

MM: How did you get started in the service industry?

JO: Plain luck! 15 years ago I was offered a job at another dealership. I have always enjoyed working with people.

MM: Where did you grow up?

JO: Bowmanville

MM: What car do you currently drive?

JO: We have two! A 2009 Pontiac SV6 and a 2005 Chevy Cavalier

MM: What is your favourite part of being a service advisor?

JO: Working with people. Every day is different!

MM: What are two words that most people would think of if asked to describe you?

JO: Depends on who you ask! Funny and Friendly, probably.

MM: How do you think most people see the service departments in car dealerships? Is it accurate?

JO: I think often people are unfairly attached to myths of the past. We’re a lot different now! People assume we’re more expensive, but most of the time we’re not.

MM: What is your favourite part about working at Mills Motors?

JO: I like working the drive thru! My old dealership didn’t have one. The staff is also really fun.

MM: What does the phrase “Whatever It Takes” mean to you?

JO: That no customer leaves unhappy at any time! I do as much as I can to fulfill that, I’ll work with them however I can to make sure that happens! Bringing your car in for service or repairs can be stressful and we try to make it as easy as possible.

MM: How many people, on average, do you work with daily?

JO: During the day shift, usually 30 or 40 different customers.

MM: We’ve covered the best part, so tell us what the worst part of your job is!

JO: The worst part, really, is breaking bad news to customers. I hate having to tell them they have an expensive repair, ’cause I really feel for them!

MM: If you could be ANY superhero, who would you be?

JO: I have about 10 Superman T-shirts, so I’d

probably be him!

MM: What’s your best piece of advice for someone who’s having their car serviced or repaired?

JO: Make sure your regular maintenance is always done. That will usually help avoid costly repairs in the future.

Thanks for reading!
You can see Jeremy most days at the Mills Motors Service Drive Thru!

Click here to Book an Appointment now!

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Our first team member we’d like to introduce you to is also one of our newest! Kheneil Black, part of our Used Sales Team as well as Assistant Merchandiser to Used Sales Manager Chris VandenThillart, Kheneil was happy to answer a few of our questions.

Mills Motors (MM): How long have you been working at Mills?

Kheneil Black (KB): Since December, 2012.

MM: How did you get started in Auto Sales?

KB: The idea was introduced to me through a friend who was already working in the industry. It wasn’t too long before I joined in on the fun.

 
MM: Where did you grow up?

KB: I was born in Kingston, Jamaica and now I live in Pickering, Ontario! But there is a lot in between that plays a big part in who I am today.

MM: What car do you currently drive?

KB: A Carbon-Black Metallic 2013 Buick Verano, I love it!

MM: What is your favourite part of selling cars?

KB: Definitely has to be interacting with people! I enjoy meeting new people every day!

MM: What are two words that most people would think of if asked to describe you?

KB: Probably “Funny” and “Positive”.

MM:  How do you feel about the “used car salesman” stereotype?

KB: I feel as though there is a cycle in place already, and it can sometimes make it difficult from the start. Maybe a customer begins without disclosing one or two things, because they think the sales person isn’t being honest, or they’ve had a bad experience before. The situation is doomed from the start because of something perceived. I just try to always be completely upfront with my customers, build a trust because that’s how those opinions are going to change!

MM: What is your favourite part about working at Mills Motors?

KB: When a customer drives away happy with their new (or new to them) vehicle purchase!

MM: Who is the most important person in the world to you?

KB: Just one?! I can’t pick just one! I’m going to say my parents!

MM: What does the phrase “Whatever It Takes” mean to you?

KB: Being creative in fulfilling customer needs and requests so ultimately, in the end, they’re happy!

MM: How many cars do you think you’ve sold in your career?

KB: 130 or so, I’m still pretty new!

MM: We’ve covered the best part, so tell us what the worst part of your job is!

KB: I’d say that losing a customer is the worst feeling. You’ve done all you can do, but it’s just out of your hands. You just always hope the customer leaves with a good impression and maybe, one day, comes back.

MM: If you could be ANY Superhero, who would you be?

KB: Wolverine! He’s pretty bad-a$$!

MM: What’s your best piece of advice for someone who’s thinking about buying a new (or new to them) car?

KB: Always be completely upfront with your sales person! It will make the whole process a lot easier, and we’ll probably be able to work with you even more. Oh, and stay within your budget!

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Want to chat with Kheneil?
Follow him on twitter @kheneilblack and maybe he’ll tell you what his favourite TV show is (It’s Community!)

Why Is My Check Engine Light On?: The Top 5 Tips from our Automotive Experts

By: Christella Morris, Digital Marketing Manager, Mills Motors Buick GMC Ltd

Mills Motors Buick GMC Ltd. | Oshawa | Whitby | Bowmanville | Repair & Service FAQ

Save & Print this Coupon for a FREE Diagnostic Check

We’ve all been there once or twice, you start your car on your way to work in the morning and the little engine light comes on with a warning beep.  At first, you panic “Oh my GOSH! What’s wrong with my car?”, you think to yourself.  Hopefully the second thing you do is either: a) fish the manual out of your glove compartment, or b) Google It!

If you’ve looked it up and have found yourself here, you’re in luck, because we’ve got some great tips from our Mills Experts and we’re here to help!

We did an informal survey of our top automotive experts here at Mills Motors and they’ve got some great tips for you on what to do when your check engine light comes on!

Here is what the experts had to say:

“Check your Gas Cap!”

-         Kim Matthews, Service Advisor

Kim Matthews, Mills Service Advisor says “Check your gas cap!” It seems that the most common reason for your check engine light coming on without warning is forgetting to put your gas cap back on after a stop at the pump, or even just not tightly securing it before returning to your car. Kim continues, “If your drive-ability changes, call roadside assistance, do NOT continue to drive it!”

We can’t agree more on that one! If you’ve covered the basics and can’t find a problem, make sure that you call roadside assistance. Trying to drive a vehicle that’s in distress can cause further problems or potentially ruin your car.

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“Double check your manual to make sure it’s your check engine light and not low fluids like Washer Fluid or Lube Oil.”

-         Don Jollymore, Service Technician

One of our main Service Technicians here at Mills, Don Jollymore, suggests that often people mix up their low fluid warnings and their check engine light. He says “You should double check your manual  to make sure it’s your check engine light and not low fluids like your Washer Fluid or Lube Oil” as is often the case when people stop by to have their car serviced after a warning light comes on. It’s easy to mix up your warning indicators, so make sure you check the legend and make yourself aware of which light means what. Don continues, “If it is your check engine light, get it checked out by your dealer right away!”

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“If the light is solid that usually means it’s driveable…”

-         Jackie Watling, Service Advisor

Another great tip we received was from one our Service Advisor, Jackie Watling. She suggests that what your warning signal is doing is a good way to determine your vehicle’s driveability. “If the light is solid that usually means it’s driveable, whereas if it’s blinking or flashing that would mean it’s not driveable and should be towed to your dealership’s service centre.” Jackie recommends having your vehicle towed in this situation, even if it costs you money, because it could save you from causing further, more expensive problems to your car down the road.

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“Stop and check your gauges; make sure there are no leaks.”

-         Chris Vissers, Service Manager

The most important rule of thumb to remember is once your warning light comes on, stop right away (if you are driving) and make sure you’re in a safe area for getting out of the car. Then check all around your car to determine whether or not you can see, smell or hear the problem.  Chris Vissers, our Service Manager here at Mills says, “Stop and check your gauges; make sure there are no leaks under your car (gas tank, washer fluid, oil etc.) and listen for any odd sounds. Check for odd smells coming from your car and lift your hood to check if you can see any visible indicators like smoke or steam.”

Knowing your car is important to driving your car. Make sure you know where your gas tank and other fluids are held so if you see a leak you can figure out where it’s coming from.  If you do see a leak bring it in to get serviced immediately.

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“Push the OnStar button and ask the advisor to do a diagnostic on your car.”

-         Brenda Niedermaier, Internet Sales Mgr.

If you recently purchased your car from Mills Motors in Oshawa, then chances are you are connected to the OnStar system, if this is the case then you can push your OnStar button and request for the advisor to run a diagnostic on your car, or for them to call the closest tow to where you are. The OnStar advisor can assist you in this situation in more ways than one, so if you have this service don’t panic and remember to use it when it’s available to you.

One or more of these tips may come in handy for you one day, so keep them in mind when you see that Check Engine light turn on in your vehicle. As always if you have any questions regarding your vehicle you can contact our helpful service department any time.

Like Mills Motors on Facebook for more Helpful Tips!

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Christella Morris works at Mills Motors as the Digital Marketing Manager. She loves writing blogs, working with social media and being a brand evangelist. She currently drives a 2013 Buick Verano and is loving the infotainment system and the great gas mileage. Her dream car is a 1971 SS Edition El Camino (her uncle builds them).

You should consider getting a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu!

The Chevrolet Malibu has been around for almost 50 years. That’s eight generations of the Chevrolet Malibu models. That simply means that the vehicle has been the right fit for people who live in Oshawa, Whitby, Bowmanville and the rest of Durham. Over the years, the Chevy Malibu has become a North American staple. The car has been employed as a police cruiser and taxi cab! The Malibu has always been known for its affordability and reliability.  From 2000-2012, GM sold roughly over 2.3M Malibu vehicles in America alone.  Those kinds of sales numbers don’t happen by accident!

8 generations of the Chevrolet Malibu? That’s right, 50 years. You can be the proud owner of your own 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.  A strong list of options include cruise control, ABS brakes, side impact airbags, front bucket seats, power lumbar adjuster, remote keyless entry, and a fuel saving 6-speed automatic transmission. Wrapped in Black Granite Metallic premium paint, the car is elegant and sparkly.

Call us to see this 2012 Chevrolet Malibu today!

Have you heard about the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze?  Of course you have!

For the past 3 years, you can’t be anywhere and not hear about one of Canada’s favorite vehicles!  You can’t listen to a radio station without hearing about the amazing fuel efficiency of a Chevy Cruze.  You can’t walk down the street without seeing a billboard or poster boasting about the affordability of the Cruze.  The awesome hype around the Cruze stems from years of being one of the best vehicles in the international market.  Consumers in Asia, Europe and Australia had the privilege of owning and testing the Cruze years before we did here in Oshawa, Whitby, Bowmanville and North America.

Is the Cruze safe?  You bet!

Upon its arrival, the Chevy  Cruze instantly became the 2011 Canadian Car of the Year.  It is Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) top safety pick for all 3 years it’s been in the market.  It’s no wonder the Cruze was so well received in North America!   Even when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) increased the standards of their testing; making it harder to receive a 5 star rating, the Cruze still achieved a 5 star rating!  In fact, according to NHTSA, the Cruze has the highest safety rating in its class, and in other categories outside its class and outside its price range.  Anti-roll technologies, along with vehicle roll sensors that deploy all the airbags in the event of vehicle rollover AND 10 STANDARD air bags serve to cement the well-deserved title of safest vehicle on the road.  GM has made the Cruze available at 0% financing for the majority of the year.  A base Cruze with automatic transmission and A/C is well-priced at $20,560 plus taxes.  A great price with all that built in value has convinced consumers – that’s why you see so many on the roads.

When was the last time you got more than what you paid for? Get more, from this 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.  It has 10 air bags, Bluetooth, power heated exterior mirrors, 6 way manual adjustable front bucket seats, ABS brakes, a rear seat armrest with built in cup holders and remote keyless entry.  This 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will light up your life in Summit White.  Contact us now at Mills Motors: www.millsbuickgmc.com.

This Pontiac G8 is praised by many to be one the top 5 best Pontiacs ever made. For the Pontiac fan, this vehicle was eagerly awaited and lovingly received.  For those not familiar with Pontiac,  this G8 had heads turning and jaws dropping as they hit the streets of Whitby, Oshawa, Bowmanville!

The G8, designed by GM Australia with the Holden badge, was a rear wheel drive machine that was released in early 2008.  If ever you are looking for a relatively low cost, high performance vehicle, the Pontiac G8 definitely delivers.  The aggressive stance and body lines were indicative of its high performance numbers.  Even the LAPD considered having a fleet of G8′s to chase down street racers!

Do have a need for speed? This 2009 Pontiac G8 GT will deliver in heaps.  Dart from one place to another with features like 6.0L V8, RWD, low profile rear spoiler, power heated leather seats, Blaupunkt 11 speaker premium audio system, power sliding sunroof, 6-CD changer, remote keyless entry and remote start.

Come in, get in, and drive this 2009 Pontiac G8 GT today! You won’t regret it.

Written By: Kheneil Black 

Follow Kheneil: Twitter & Facebook