The History of Dave Smith Motors

Dave Smith Motors is the largest Jeep RAM dealer in the world - and the Northwest's #1 GM Dealer. Learn why drivers from all 50 states have trusted Dave Smith for 50+ years.

Oct 1965
Chevrolet store in Wallace, ID

Dave Smith buys a small Chevrolet store in Wallace, ID

1970
Interstate-90 frontage in Kellogg, ID

Dealership relocates to nearby Kellogg, ID to gain Interstate-90 frontage.

Early 1980s
Hassle-Free Buying

Amid a regional recession, the Dave Smith starts it's famous one-price, “Hassle-Free Buying” model

1990
Chrysler & Dodge franchises

Adds Chrysler & Dodge franchises.

1994
Jeep franchise

Adds Jeep franchise

1996
Largest RAM/Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep dealer

Dave Smith Auto pioneers Internet sales and earns it's status as the world’s largest RAM/Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep dealer.

2006
Record sales

Dave Smith Motors sets a new record—7,024 Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep units sold in a single year, topping the global sales chart.

2010
Ward’s e-Dealer 100

Ranks #2 on Ward’s e-Dealer 100, cementing its reputation for high-volume online retailing.

2012
Largest local employer

Dave Smith Motors becomes Shoshone County’s largest employer as thousands drive in from across the country

Dec 7 2021
Sonic acquisition

Sonic Automotive (NYSE: SAH) acquires Dave Smith Motors and paves the way for the return of No Hassle Buying + Low, Low, Low Prices

2024
Back-to-roots sales success

As supply challenges from the pandemic ease, buyers visit from all 50 states

2025
First 2025 EV inventory

Dave Smith Motors celebrates 60 years in business