Customer Testimonials

Welcome to Universal Toyota's customer testimonial page!  This page is designed to recognize our sales associates as well as introduce our new customers to the way Universal Toyota does business.

(scroll down to see all staff members)

If you would like to contact one of the salespeople, simply click on the image to send an email or call 654-1515.  If you would like to leave a testimonial about your salesperson, please email Brittney Dupaul at bdupaul@redmac.net.

(full names have been ommitted in order to protect our customer's privacy)

 Curt Johnson: has been with Universal Toyota for over 15 years, prior to that, he had his own automotive-related business in Las Vegas, Nevada for 15 years.  He is the most knowledgable and professional person you will ever meet, which is exemplified by his large following of repeat and referral customers. Besides sales, he is also the Fleet/Inventory Control Manager--so if you are looking to order a Toyota for yourself or your business, he is the best man to contact.  He is a Toyota "Master Certifed" salesperson and manager with a solid green Toyota "Customer Service Index."  Curt lives in San Antonio with his wife Debi who owns her own travel busines that caters to many popular rock groups from the 1970's and 80's.  Curt and Debi often spend time at Canyon Lake with friends and enjoy yearly vacations in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. 

CJohnson@redmac.net

(210) 967-2171

• "Working with Curt to get exactly what I wanted and needed was a fantastic experience!  I never felt pressured but did feel like customer satisfaction was a prority.  I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience with Universal Toyota and especially with Curt Johnson." (TH)
• "We give Curt Johnson very high marks for salesmanship. We are senior citizens and are not impressed with the razzle dazzle techniques used by some car salesmen. He listened to our request and found the car we wanted with the equipment we asked for and gave us a fair price on our trade-in. He helped us set up the Bluetooth feature on our car and showed us how to use the GPS. We are happy with the car and would recommend him to our friends and relatives." (FG)
• "My wife and I would like to go on record stating tht as far as we are concerned, Mr. Red McCombs has an outstanding employee in Mr. Curt Johnson. Throughout the entire purchase process Mr. Johnson was most professional, helping us decide on the many choices of purchase plans, vehicle colors, accessories, etc. We soon realized that Mr. Johnson's knowledge of the new Toyota Prius was outstanding. He took the time to explain the many new innovations in the 2010 model as compared to the 2005 Prius which we previously purchased through Universal Toyota. At no time did we feel pressured or rushed into making a hasty decision but were given ample opportunity to ask questions before making our final decision. It was obvious from the beginning of the purchase process that customer satisfaction was Mr. Johnson't #1 priority and ultimate goal. To this end he ranks at the very top. After making our decision on the Prius of our choice, Mr. Johnson stated he would do his very best to have the Prius delivered as soon as possible. Mr. Johnson notified us that OUR PRIUS had arrived and would be ready for us. Upon our arrival, Mr. Johnson showed us our new Prius and went over every detail, including both the basics--like how the new keyless start system works, to the use of the new Bluetooth technology. After having driven our Prius for two weeks we could not be more satisfied. We cannot say enough about both Mr. Curt Johnson and our new 2010 Toyota Prius. Both Mr. Johnson and the 2010 Toyota Prius are winners. You can count on our continued support of Universal Toyota." (CB, RB)
• "Our recent experience with Curt Johnson was the most pleasurable car buying experience we have ever had. He is the utmost professional who painlessly led us step-by-step through the process. His demeanor was quite comforting and we are more than pleased with him and fully expect to buy more vehicles from him in years to come." (RL)
• "Curt was wonderful. My daughter is 16 and she had the best time joking around with him. He answered all of our questions, and really helped me to make an informed decision. He worked very hard to allow us to get this car for her and she LOVES it! She told him he was a superhero! Thanks Curt!" (SB)
• "my experience was quite positive. When I flew down from Dallas to pick up the car, eveything was exactly as Curt said it would be... No surprises. The paperwork was ready to go, and the transaction was flawless. I felt like I was getting the "executive" treatment." (SL)
• "My purchase of a Prius at Universal Toyota was a positive experince, largely due to the efforts of Kevin Rumsey and Curt Johnson. Thier knowledge of their product was exceptional. They answered many questions with patience and thoroughness, guiding me through the purchase process with ease. I would not hesitate to recommend these two individuals to my friends and acquaintaces."(PM)
• "We would like to take this opportunity to let the entire management staff at Universal Toyota know just how pleased we are with the purchase of our new 2010 Toyota Prius and the outstanding service provided to us by Mr. Curt Johnson. It was a Saturday morning and we had come in for service to our previous car. While waiting for this service we decided to check out the cars on the showroom floor. To our surprise we saw a beautiful silver Toyota Prius with all the features we ever wanted. Mr.Johnson willingly made himself available to us and explained the many new features of this Prius. We made an appointment with Curt for the following Monday and when we arrived he had the car outside waiting for us to test drive. We were sold immediately. Mr.Johnson was most eager to work with us in assuring the car had just what we wanted and worked diligently to formulate a sales plan that would benefit both us and Universal Toyota. We highly recommend Curt Johnson to anyone interested in purchasing a vehicle. He is definite asset tot he Universal Toyota team.' (C & R B)
• "I have bought 6 new Toyotas over the years from Curt Johnson, he is always willing to give me the very best deal possible. More importanly he is a true professional that cares about his customers. He always treats you with the up most respect and is very much informed about the Toyota product you are about to buy. He is willing ti answer all questions no matter how insignificant they may seem. It has been a pleasure having a long trusting business relationship with Curt. He is with no doubt the most important part of the Universal Toyota sales team and it is always a pleasure doiong business with him." (JWK)

 Jose Otero: has been with Universal Toyota for 15 years and he is not only a great salesperson, but our Scion Manager as well.  Jose has received Toyota's top honor with a "Master Certification"--meaning he can answer any question you have about the Toyota line of vehicles!  He is also part of Toyota's "Silver Sales Society" and has a solid "Green" rating in Toyota's "Customer Service Index."  He is part of the internet new car sales team.  Jose lives in San Antonio with his wife and three kids.  When he is not selling cars, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and boating.

jotero@redmac.net

(210)967-2106

• "I traded my Scion in for a Tundra with Jose Otero.  This is our third new Toyota in 16 months using Jose. He is fantastic!  Great customer service.  We will be back to use Jose again; we will also recommend him to friends and family.  Thank you." (Z)
• "We thoroghly enjoyed dealing with Jose when we bought our new Scion.  It is the second one we have owned and really love it.  Jose was very helpful and we think he is a great guy--don't let him get away!" (TS/JS)
• "We have now purchased two vehicles from Jose in the space of two years. Our experience with him has been fantastic!  Most of our dealings with Jose have been over the phone since our time is precious.  He is knowledgable over the entire product line and give you the straight story.  Another of Jose's strong points is his service after the sale.  When our son turns 16 in a couple of years we intend to be calling Jose again." (GV)
• "Our new car purchase experience with Jose was exceptionally pleasurable. His customer service was flawless. The effort he expended to satisfy our requests and questions was thorough, but not overdone." (RB,TB)
• "Jose Otero went beyond providing great customer service. Not many employees will stay two hours after the dealership has closed to make a sale and during the entire experience make the customer feel at ease. Each time we made note of the late hour, his response was 'it does not matter.' This was our first experience buying a Toyota and we can guarantee it will not be the last. We feel fortunate Jose was our salersperson." (JC/JC)
• "I bought another new Toyota the other day, my third from Universal Toyota in less than a year and a half. Jose did a great job in explaining the differences between all of the models and he was patient with our test drives. He stayed until after 9pm just to complete the process. We will do business with Jose again." (JN)
• "Jose was attentive and professional. My experience was very positive. Thanks." (DR)
• "Jose Otero has ALWAYS given us excellent service. My wife and I have now purchased two vehicles from Jose and would recommend him to anyone. My wife in particular dislikes hard-sell and at one time walked out of a dealership when a different salesperson contrived to trap us in his office for an extended period of time. She vowed she would never return until I convinced her that Jose didn't behave in that 'cheesy' fashion. We both respect Jose's commitment to his customers and his genuine friendliness and knowledge of his products." (JP)
• "My experience at Universal Toyota was satisfying as Jose Otero provided me with the information needed to make the right decision on choosing my vehicle. Mr Otero had the right personality/attitude to make me feel comfortable, which is not common in most car salesman. I would recommend Mr. Otero to any friends and family members when choosing to buy a vehicle. Thanks for your excellent service Jose!" (JD)
• "Jose Otero is a caring and patient man. Jose called and e-mailed us concerning our "wish list" in a Camry. He came through with all of the items we wanted. He took the time to explain all of the features of the Camry XLE with navigation system and backup camera. He understood our need to get everything done quickly, as I am undergoing chemo and tire easily. He got someone to take care of our financing quickly and efficiently. Jose truly made buying a Camry a stress-free experience." (JLW/JEW)
• "This is the third car we have purchasedfrom Universal Toyota and Jose Otero has been the salesman on all of them. We are VERY happy with his service. Thanks Jose." (BS) 
• "I have owned my Toyota Tacoma for four years now and I couldn't be happier with my truck. Jose Otero and Universal Toyota did a wonderful job finding the perfect truck for me. This is my second Toyota Truck and definitely not my last. I can't believe I have my vehicle for this long and still haven't had a single maintenance issue with it. Jose has also done a GREAT job of keeping in touch with me over the years, which is why I will be back to Universal for my next Toyota purchase!"(SB)
• "I had a great purchase experience with Mr.Otero, he answered all my questions, always returned my calls very promptly.I will definitly refer him an dUniversal TOyota to anyone who asks about my new car. It is very hadr to find a dealership who will treat you with respect."(DM)
• "I have ben working with Jose Otero and did purchase a 2010 Highlander. Jose has been outstanding working with us. I had worked with him on a purchase in 2008 also. I could not have asked for a more pleasant, professional experience. I am 110% satisfied!! Based on my experience with Universal Toyota now and in 2008, I believe I'll be a long-time customer." (WH)
• "Jose Otero made our buying experience just great, no push, no pressure, just personable, calm and professional. Jose focused on getting us the vehicle we wanted at a great price. He worked to make sure our needs were met and that we were 100% happy with our car. This is my second experience purchasing with Jose and I'm sure I'll be back to see him next time. Jose Otero and Universal Toyota are top notch and I highly recommend them to you!!" (HWH)
• "Jose Otero has now sold my wife and I three cars in the last year. He has been every part of courteous, patient, and proffessional. Jose has never been pushy and he always allowed us time to make an informed decision. I highly recommend anyone shopping for a new Toyota contact Jose Otero."(MT)
• "Jose Otero was most accommodating on our several visits to Universal Toyota. He was tireless in his efforts to ensure our satisfaction with our new Highlander. This is the first time we have bought a Toyota but we received such excellent service from Jose Otero and Universal Toyota that we expect to be back again. Anyone who wants a recommendation, this is definately the place and the man." (CSH)
• "I first want to thank Mr.Otero for making our purchase a seamless experience. Universal Toyota was about the 4th Toyota dealership I had visited in about 3 weeks which includes Austin, San Marcos, and San Antonio. Mr/Otero's professionalism and willingness to make a sale that I was comfortable with made the difference. Once again Thank you." (JDG)

Shannon Witherow: has been with Universal Toyota for over 7 years. He has had several awards from Toyota for high volume and high customer satisfaction ratings. He has been salesperson of the year for 3 years and the other 3 years he was a sales manager here and helped us obtain the “Presidents Award” which is one of the highest awards given from Toyota for great customer service and volume to go along with it.  He has been in the automotive industry for over 17 years and has done almost everything you can do from General Sales Manager, Finance, Parts, and Service etc. He is married and has two beautiful children and when he is not working he is having fun with them.

switherow@redmac.net

(210)967-2114

• "Shannon approached me one afternoon as my son and I walked towards the new Scions.  His welcoming remarks were unlike any I've heard before--he was sincere, kind, and concerned about my desires.  Shannon listened to me, asked appropriate questions, and always provided me clear options.  I came prepared to purchase, received an excellent trade-in offer, paid the balance and departed with my perfect Scion xB.  To top things off, he emailed me a picture of me and my xB (which I proudly shared with family and friends).  Shannon has earned my future business!" (LT)
• "Shannon was the most patient salesman I have ever had the pleasure of doing business with. He made my car buying experience both relaxed and very fun. I asked for sporty and he took me to see the Scion tC. I loved it! It was like he could read my mind. Again, he was very patient and knowledgable. I highly recommend him! My sister and I had a great time shopping!" (PY)
• The new Corolla we just leased is the second one with Shannon. To us, he is the perfect sales representative...good listener, interested, kind and a joy to work with...we just hope he is still there for the next round." (TB)
• "We were very pleased and impressed with both Shannon Witherow and Jasmine DeJesus and the way they handled our sale. So far we love our Venza. Please thank them for us." (LM,PM)
• "Shannon was my salesman he spent a great deal of time with me, and I never felt rushed. Professionally, Shannon is knowledgeable, informative, and honest. Personally, he is very kind, friendly, and patient. All of these qualities made me feel comfortable and confident that I was making the right choice. When the car was ready, Shannon went outside ont the cold (very cold and windy) to explain all the different features. He examined the car bumper to bumper and waxed out each and every tiny spot. I plan on returning to Universal Toyota to purchase any future vehicles with Shannon's help. I traded in a Corolla for another Corolla and I LOVE IT! Thanks for a wonderful car-buying experience!(PS)
• "This is the fourth vehicle I have bought from Shannon. It is always an easy purchase and I end up with the exact car I want."(ML)

Manny Portillo: has been with Universal Toyota for over 10 years and is an absolute professional.  He has his Toyota "Master Certification" in both Toyota and Scion.  He is a member of the new car sales team and has a solid green in Toyota "Customer Satisfaction Index."  Manny has a big heart and is always giving back; If you mention the American Legion, he donates $100 from his own pocket to the Legion's Children's Charity when you purchase of a vehicle from him.  Manny lives in San Antonio with his wife and likes to "catch and release" fish in his spare time.

(210)967-2178

• "I recently purchased a 2009 Highlander Sport from Universal Toyota and Manny Portillo. This is the second Highlander that Manny has sold us and each time the dealing with Manny has been the same.  Manny is a true professional and easy to deal with.  You will get no pressure from Manny trying to sell you something that you do not want.  I have always found him to be honest and straight-talking.  It was a pleasure buying this car from Manny." (MLS)
• "The service was straightforward and curteous. We were able to work out an agreeable deal in no time. Thank you for the new Toyota!" (MS) 

 John Kenney:  has been with Universal Toyota for

jkenney@redmac.net

(210)-967-2193

•  "John Kenney is THE MAN!  He always does a great job and we appreciate him. Hopefully he made a few dollars off of us..." (DH)
• "The 4Runner was bought for my daughter for her 16th birthday!  Our salesman, John Kenney, was absolutely the best!" (BW)
• "I would like to personally thank John Kenney for my sales experience when i bought my 4Runner. I went through USAA to purchase the vehicle. John quickly contacted me and worked with me getting the vehicle that I wanted with accessories that I asked for. He jumped through hoops to get the 4Runner Limited in Blizzard PEarl with tan interior, but was able to do it in remarkable time and hadit delivered the next day. John worked with me through the entire vehicle purchaseprocess making it one of the easiest vehicle purchases I've had. Thank YOu John!! WOuld definitely purchase another Toyota with John as me salesperson." (TP)
• "I am very pleased at the professionalism and courteousness presented durning my experience at Universal Toyota. Not only does Toyota provide excellent products in their vehicles as far as reliabilty, quality, and performance but their service, determination, and hard work are well respected. i have always been a Toyota fan adn will continue to pass it on through generations to come. "Oh what a feeling." (JT)
• "John provided us with professional, prompt and excellent service. He is superb salesman." (G.P & D.P)
• "The purchase of my 2010 Camry Hybrid with John kenney was a pleasure. He provided a honest recommendation for the type of vehicle that met my needs and was very knowledgeable of the vehicle. He has been very pleasant to speak with regarding the passing of his knowledgeof the accessories and has always been eager to assist with some. I would not hesitate to recommend him to my friends."  

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