A Family Owned and Operated Local Business, The Preferred Auto Story

Spotlight of ford models for sale here at Preferred Auto Sales and Service

Preferred Automotive Group was started in 1989 by Jay Leonard, as a small lot on Speedway Drive in Fort Wayne, Indiana. From a small beginning with just 3 employees and 6 vehicles, Preferred Automotive Group grew to 7 sales locations spanning much of Northeast Indiana in the early 2000s. As their success continued, and the region began to recognize the high-quality vehicles with the Preferred sticker on the back, Preferred Automotive Group’s reputation took hold in the greater Fort Wayne community. While they have won multiple awards over the years, they are most proud of one: The "Business of Integrity" given by the Better Business Bureau, of NE Indiana. This is not only a huge professional achievement, but a personal one as well. Jay Leonard always prided himself and his business in providing the community with the best possible vehicle, at the best price. One of his personal mottos was, “Anyone can sell you one car. It’s our goal to sell you cars for a lifetime.”, and is why we aim to make sure that each and every customer is treated as family during and after the sale.

Today, with the ease and importance of online shopping, having a large physical footprint and multiple locations is no longer necessary, so the Preferred Automotive Group has consolidated their focus and their best people into one Super Store in Fort Wayne, as well as a state-of-the-art service center. All of their vehicles are handpicked, and many are one-owner with zero accidents. Prior to being offered for sale, the Service Department inspects every vehicle and makes the necessary repairs to ensure the most value for their customers.

In 2010, Jay Leonard had his son join him in the family business. His son, Jake, has grown up around the business and knew at an early age he wanted to carry on the legacy that his father had built. Jake takes great pride in the family business, and works hard to maintain the A+ Accredited rating that the dealership has with the Better Business Bureau. Since Jay’s passing from brain cancer in 2023, the Leonard family is continuing to make sure that Preferred Automotive Group keeps the reputation that has been established since 1989.

The Preferred Auto team have found a couple keys to their success; they keep their priorities in order, and have a simple philosophy, “God, Family, and Work, in that order.”

“Our goal is to treat each employee and customer as family.” - Jay Leonard

We hope to welcome you to the Preferred Automotive Group Family, and thank you for visiting us today. 

Stellar Selection and Low Prices That More Than Meet Your Needs

Serving our friends in Fort Wayne starts with access to an impressive array of used vehicles. Whether you are hunting for the perfect pre-owned pickup or a quality used sport utility vehicle (SUV), odds are we have exactly what you are looking for on our lot. If an eco-friendly sedan that takes it easy at the pump or a minivan fit for the whole family is more you speed, then you are in luck on this front as well.

The only thing better than our copious selection of reliable, clean used cars? How about the fact that Preferred Auto Sales and Service always goes above and beyond to keep our prices as low as possible. We understand completely that staying on budget is a big deal, so our goal is to always bring you the best prices possible on each used car, truck, or SUV found in our inventory. This way, you can shop with confidence knowing that the deal that works for you is always waiting at our nearby Fort Wayne location.

Fast, Friendly Financing Is Always Available

Another way that our team rises above the competition is by making the process of getting the loan you need to drive home in your dream car as easy as possible. Regardless of your current credit situation, Preferred Auto Sales and Service is here to work hard on your behalf and deliver a great loan with a low interest rate that pairs up perfectly with our already low vehicle prices. This way, you can shop with confidence knowing you'll be happy with your decision to honor us with your business both now and long into the future thanks to an outstanding loan that continues to save you money for years and years to come.

Service with a Smile Is Our Standard

The final piece of the puzzle that puts Preferred Auto Sales and Service over the top when comparing us with other used car dealers in Fort Wayne comes in the form of our unending commitment to stellar customer service. From the moment you step foot onto our used car lot, you can expect to be greeted by friendly, trusted professionals who are always willing to offer up guidance and support during this exciting life event.

If you need some extra time and space to consider your options, that is okay too. Only when you are ready to take the next step in this process will our team be there to ensure you get the best deal possible and come to a decision that suits you. In other words, peace of mind is never in short supply when you take advantage of Preferred Auto Sales and Service's stress-free shopping experience.

Now that you understand this, isn't it time to stop by for a visit with one of our friendly used car experts to discuss the best ways to upgrade your automotive future with a great pre-owned vehicle? If this sounds like a great idea to you, contact us today to schedule a time that works best for you and we will do the rest.