Dealer Information

In 1914, Emmett and Leo McEleney opened an automobile dealership at 21 Main Avenue on the riverfront in Clinton, Iowa.  That began a tradition of leadership in the community, pride in quality products and of service customers can depend upon. 

The first franchise held by the McEleney brothers was the Jeffrey automobile. After World War I, the dealership added franchises including Oakland, Rickenbacker and Rio.

1926    First expansion took place with the 5,000 square foot addition to the west of the original structure.  The Oldsmobile franchise was added, marking the beginning of the firm’s association with General Motors.

1942    During World War II, a six-lane bowling alley was installed in the former showroom area for the duration of the War, as automobile production was halted.

1958    Chevrolet and Cadillac franchises were acquired in a downtown Clinton location.

1964    The fiftieth anniversary of the Dealership was commemorated - - a rare event in the automotive industry.  McEleney Motors and McEleney Chevrolet are merged into one operation, franchised with Chevrolet, Oldsmobile and Cadillac.

1973    Recognizing the growth and significance of the import vehicle market, the Toyota franchise was added.

1976    McEleney Motors celebrated fifty years association with General Motors.

1988    Franchises for Buick, Pontiac and GMC Truck were added making McEleney Motors one of the United States largest full-line General Motors dealers.

2001/2002       Construction of a new facility was begun in a location at the junction of Highways 30 and 67, the main southwest entrance to the city of Clinton.  The new “state of the art” facility, complete with the most modern Collision Center techniques, separate Toyota building, and Pre-Owned sales building is more convenient to area traffic local and to the south.  This area is undergoing rapid growth of many other retail businesses and the relocation is in keeping with our commitment to our customers and the community to have the finest automotive accommodations available in eastern Iowa and western Illinois.  The move was completed on June1st, 2002.

2011    Brand New Toyota Dealership Facility
Significant Toyota sales increase has caused us to outgrow existing Toyota facility new facility now provides an exclusive Toyota sales/service experience with a 4 vehicle showroom, state of art electronics, Toyota dedicated service reception, exclusive dedicated Toyota new vehicle delivery area.

2011    Remodeled Chevy-Buick-GMC Sales-Service Facility
New sales & finance offices, totally remodeled customer service reception area, new vehicle delivery area, GM specific aluminum exterior cladding, Chevrolet entry portal. Both facilities featured expanded customer lounge area including: flat screen TV entertainment, coffee-refreshment bar, WIFI, quiet area, children's play area, "Living Room" type feel - furnishings/finishes

"The McEleney family has served the Clinton area for nearly 100 years and we are please to provide our customers with the most attractive, comfortable, efficient facility and experience possible as we embark on our next 100 years. Although our dealership facility is only 9 years old, we are committed to long term growth and increased vehicle sales & service. Faced with rapidly changing technology has prompted us to keep our facility as current and cutting edge as possible. This building expansion and enhancement will allow us to do just that. We will provide a more attractive environment for our customers as well as our employees. We are excited about making this investment." - John McEleney