If you’ve lived in the Mid-Columbia area for a while, the name Griffith Toyota The Dalles Oregon probably brings up a specific image. Maybe it’s the old sign on West 6th Street or the memory of David Griffith himself walking the lot. For decades, it wasn’t just a place to swap a used Camry; it was a local institution.
But things have changed. A lot.
If you drive down to 1900 W 6th St today, you won’t actually see "Griffith" on the main marquee anymore. It’s now Columbia Gorge Toyota. While the name on the building swapped out, the DNA of the place—the way they handle oil changes and the faces in the service bays—carries a lot of that old-school history.
The Big Switch: From Griffith to Columbia Gorge
In 2019, David Griffith decided it was time to "shift gears," as he put it. He’d been running the show since 2001 after taking over from the Thomas family. Selling a dealership in a small town like The Dalles isn't like selling a Starbucks in Portland. It’s personal.
Griffith ended up selling to Mario Hernandez and the BVMH Auto Group. Shortly after, Aaron and Rachel Carter stepped in to lead the charge. They didn't just want the franchise; they wanted the legacy. Honestly, it was a smart move. They kept the community-first vibe that Griffith spent twenty years building.
The transition wasn't just a corporate handshake. It meant keeping the "Griffy’s Quick Lube" spirit alive while modernizing the tech. They still do the Easter egg hunts. They still give away free oil changes to Veterans on Veteran's Day. It’s that weird, small-town blend of high-volume sales and "hey, I know your cousin" service.
What’s Actually on the Lot in 2026?
People often ask if a smaller dealership in The Dalles can keep up with the massive lots in Portland or Vancouver. The answer is usually in the inventory mix. Because we’re right at the edge of the Gorge, the inventory at Griffith Toyota The Dalles Oregon (now Columbia Gorge Toyota) leans heavily into what people actually drive here.
✨ Don't miss: Why the Tractor Supply Company Survey Actually Matters for Your Next Visit
Think hybrids and trucks. Lots of trucks.
The 2026 Lineup
The 2026 Toyota Camry LE and the newest RAV4 XLE are the bread and butter right now. You’ll see plenty of AWD configurations because, let’s be real, nobody wants to get stuck on Sevenmile Hill when the ice hits in January.
The Tundra and Tacoma still dominate the back lot.
One thing that surprises people is the "internet price" strategy they’ve leaned into. You can often find a used 2024 or 2025 Corolla SE for significantly less than MSRP just by checking their digital inventory before you show up. They’ve also kept a surprisingly robust selection of older, "budget" Toyotas—think 2012 Camrys or 2015 RAV4s—which are gold for local commuters.
The Service Department Reality Check
You can’t talk about this place without talking about the service bays. It’s where most people interact with the brand.
Names like Larry Slemp and Bo Andersen pop up constantly in local conversations. They’re known for being the guys who actually explain why your brake pads are wearing unevenly instead of just handing you a $1,200 bill.
🔗 Read more: Why the Elon Musk Doge Treasury Block Injunction is Shaking Up Washington
However, it’s not always perfect. Honestly, they’ve had their growing pains. As they’ve grown, scheduling has occasionally become a headache. In late 2025, some customers reported waiting over a month just for a diagnostic code check because they only had one "master tech" available.
They also introduced a first-class video inspection report. Now, the mechanic sends a video of your actual car to your phone. They show you the leaky gasket or the thinning tread in real-time. It’s hard to argue with a repair when you can literally see the oil dripping on camera.
Common Services Offered:
- Comprehensive auto maintenance
- Specialized tire rotation for Gorge terrain
- Express oil changes (the old Griffy’s legacy)
- Factory recall repairs (usually handled in under 30 minutes if you time it right)
Why This Location Specifically?
The Dalles is a "jumping-off spot." It’s been that way for ten thousand years, from Native fishing grounds to pioneer trails.
The dealership sits right at the gateway. If you’re heading out to fish at Horsethief Lake or heading up to Mount Hood, you’re passing right by. That’s why their "Why Buy Here" program includes things like local pickup and delivery. They know their customers aren't just in town; they're in Hood River, Goldendale, and Dufur.
They even identifies as veteran-owned now, which resonates deeply in Wasco County.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
If you're planning to head down to the old Griffith Toyota The Dalles Oregon location, don't just wing it.
💡 You might also like: Why Saying Sorry We Are Closed on Friday is Actually Good for Your Business
First, check the "Specials" tab on the Columbia Gorge Toyota website. They frequently run service coupons that the staff might not mention unless you ask.
Second, if you’re looking for a specific model like a Tacoma i-FORCE MAX or a Prius Plug-in Hybrid, call the sales line at 541-827-3555 before driving in. They often have vehicles in transit that aren't listed on the front lot yet.
Third, ask for a video inspection. If you’re getting service, make sure they send you the link. It’s the best way to ensure transparency and keep a record of your vehicle’s health for when you eventually want to trade it in.
Finally, give yourself a buffer. The shop is busy, and while they strive for speed, the "small town" pace means sometimes an oil change takes two hours instead of forty minutes. Grab a coffee, use their fast Wi-Fi (it’s good enough for Zoom calls), and relax.
You’re in the Gorge, after all. There’s no need to rush.