About The Auto Connection

We Connect Buyers and Sellers of Unique Vehicles

We represent the buyer AND the seller. We are simply offering a marketing service that links people who are looking for specific cars with the people who have them. Buying cars online and over the phone is tough, we truly take out the fear and represent the cars and the sellers, making a painless experience for both parties.

Before the Sale

• We interview the seller and go over the vehicle they are selling
• We help clients evaluate the potential value range of their vehicle using multiple sources
• We create a “walk around” ad for the vehicle, complete with 150-250 professional-grade photos. Our text will fully describe the car, inside and out
• We advertise the vehicle on our website and other notable sites and publications. We usually average approximately 3,000 – 10,000 hits (or people who view your vehicle) per car

After the Sale

• We advice on safe, trusty methods of transferring funds from buyer to seller.
• We handle all of the title transfer details, and can mail it to the buyer when all funds clear.
• We can help the buyer obtain shipping quotes and help him choose a transport company.
• If the buyer wants to fly in to inspect the car, or even drive it home himself, we will pick him up at the airport, and drive him right to his new car. We can also advise overnight lodging if necessary.

The People Behind The Auto Connection

Chad Gumpp

For as long as he can remember, Chad loved anything with tires, wheels, and an engine. In the mid ‘60s, he dabbled in go carts, mini bikes, dirt bikes, and even tractors. If it had engine, he was into it. Chad’s father and uncle bought their first Cadillac dealership when he was 12 years old, and naturally he grew up in the business. In the early years, he says he “washed about a million cars”. He moved up to the parts and service department, where he did light maintenance and mechanical repairs. He also prepared cars for delivery, including detailing used inventory. In 1971, Chad’s dad helped him get his first car…a 1969 Chevelle SS 396. He loved drag racing and says this car was probably “one of the most tired 3 year old cars anywhere”. He spent about a year repairing and modifying his car, and believes this experience has helped him throughout his career.

When Chad’s family purchased 2 more dealerships, he worked his way into sales, sales management, and general management. During that time, he had various antique and muscle cars over the years, including a 1972 Corvette 454. In the fall of 1976, Chad married Chris, and had 3 wonderful children Bridget, Charlie, and Katie. He is now a proud grandpa to Cole, Bryce and Cody. In the early days of the internet, Chad developed a new car buying service to help people take the hassle out of buying new cars from dealers. Many of his customers remarked that they also needed help with antique cars. They were having a difficult time with long distance selling (and buying), having cars represented honestly, doing money transfers, etc. Chad ended up brain storming with a friend from NY, and from there, Auto Connection was born.

Chad’s family sold their dealerships in the early 1990s, and at that time, he moved into an building. When asked to tell us a little bit about himself, Chad says he “loves food and eats too much”. He also loves boating, cars, and guns…and spending time with his family, of course. He “hates yard work”, and says he is still “trying to get into shape”.

Katie Himes

I am the youngest daughter of Chad Gumpp, I have been married for 7 years, and have two small boys. I enjoy four wheeling, dirt bikes, bonfires, camping, cars and old trucks. I live on 7 acres in the country. I spend my time outside, with my family, and working with my Dad. I grew up in the car business, and married into a car family. My husband, kids, and I enjoy taking rides in my husband’s 71 Chevelle. We also like to go watch my father in-law drag race. He is known for his car meticulous (a 69 Camaro). My boys love being with my dad on the boat tubing and grilling. We are very much a close family and enjoy our time the most when we can all be together.

Bridget

Bridget, the oldest of Chad’s children, loved hanging around the dealership with him when she was little. After high school, she graduated from Malone College with a degree in business. She worked part time in a doctor’s office in high school, and has continued down the medical path ever since. She is an avid water skier, and loves going boating with Chad and the family. She also went to Nationals with her traveling softball team. She is married to Micah and has a son named Bryce. She works part time in the Auto Connection office doing book-keeping, payroll, and keeping the peace.