Former New York Police Department detective buys 18 cars from Findlay Automotive Group since 1991

Retired 20-year New York Police Department detective Stu Michaels is more than your typical customer when he’s visiting Findlay Acura in the Valley Automall.

Michaels, a great storyteller and author who wrote the book “You Can’t Make This Up! Cops, Crooks and Celebrities from Brooklyn to Las Vegas,” published by Stephens Press, has bought 18 new and preowned vehicles from Findlay Automotive Group dealerships since 1991.

The 72-year-old Michaels has bought most of his vehicles from Findlay Acura Sales Manager Matt Nichol during Nichol’s years at Findlay dealerships. Over the years, Michaels’ purchases have included many Saturns, a Mustang convertible, a Honda, a Ford Explorer and a Dodge Charger, to name a few.

“This all started when my wife and I bought our first Saturn at Saturn of Henderson in 1991,” Michaels said. “I’m a people person who loves mixing with people and I can make a pretty quick appraisal of people. From the first day, I knew that the dealerships were good people. They’re honest, they’re fair, and from that day on, I knew that these guys were the ones I wanted to deal with.”

Considering his past years in law enforcement, Michaels knows how to read body language and sincerity.

“Once I trust someone and feel comfortable with someone, there’s no reason to go anywhere else. I never felt pressured at all when shopping at Findlay stores and I know if they say I need something done on a vehicle, I don’t even ask questions. I just tell them to do it. Everything is about service whether it’s sales or service.”

Michaels’ last purchase was a 2006 Honda Accord, bought from Nichol.

“I am not afraid to buy a used car here either,” he said. “In fact, I’m not afraid to buy anything here. We have become friends. They make you comfortable. There is no nonsense and I feel comfortable.”

General Manager Kevin Hicks heads Findlay Acura at 315 Automall Drive.

Findlay Automotive Group was founded more than 50 years ago by the late Pete Findlay, whose son Cliff leads automobile dealerships in Nevada, Oregon, Arizona, Utah and Idaho. Further information is at www.findlayauto.com.