If you’ve lived in Union County for any length of time, you probably know the Chapman name. It wasn't just a sign on a building; it was basically a landmark. Since 1913, Chapman Ford Marysville Ohio stood as the oldest Ford dealership in the entire state. That’s 112 years of history. Honestly, it’s hard to wrap your head around a business lasting through the Model T era, the Great Depression, and the supply chain nightmares of the 2020s.
But things changed recently.
In the summer of 2025, Joe Chapman, the fourth-generation owner, made the heavy decision to sell the family legacy. It wasn't some snap judgment. He retired. Transitioning a century-old family business is emotional, and Joe didn't hide that. He sold the operation to the Coughlin Automotive Group, and the lot at 1255 Columbus Avenue now officially operates as Coughlin Ford of Marysville.
What Happened to Chapman Ford Marysville Ohio?
You might be wondering why such a staple would suddenly swap names. Business is business, but this felt personal for a lot of locals. Joe Chapman mentioned that selling was one of the most difficult choices of his life. After four generations, the "Chapman" era reached its natural conclusion.
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The deal was finalized around June 30, 2025.
Coughlin Automotive isn't exactly a stranger to the area. They already had a massive footprint in Marysville with their Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, and Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram franchises. Buying the Ford store was basically the final piece of their local puzzle. They took over the 28,000-square-foot facility, the 24 service bays, and the Ford Quick Lane setup.
The good news? They kept the staff.
The Legacy of the Century Award
Before the sale, the dealership received the NADA Century Award. That’s a big deal. Only nine dealerships in the whole country got profiled for it that year. It’s a nod to businesses that survived the "historic highs and lows" of the American auto industry. Chapman Ford Marysville Ohio was one of the few that could say they sold cars to people's great-great-grandparents.
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People in Marysville remember the dealership for more than just F-150s. They sponsored "Friday Nights Uptown" and events like Rocktoberfest and Country Jam at Partners Park. It’s that kinda community glue that people worry about losing when a big group buys out a family shop.
Is the Service Still the Same?
This is where the conversation gets a bit mixed. If you check Reddit or local forums, you’ll see the "Coughlin vs. Chapman" debate. Some folks are fiercely loyal to the old ways.
One regular mentioned on a local thread that they’d been going to Chapman for years because of the near-perfect five-star reputation. After the transition, some customers reported a shift in the "vibe." There have been complaints about service delays or communication hiccups during the handover. It’s sorta expected when a huge organization takes over a small-town icon.
However, many of the same faces are still behind the counter. The mechanics who knew your truck’s history didn't just disappear. Coughlin has promised to maintain that "hometown pride" while bringing in more resources.
- Inventory: It’s actually bigger now. Being part of a 17-franchise group means they can pull cars from all over Ohio.
- Facility: It’s staying "Ford image-compliant." No major renovations are planned because the building was already top-tier.
- Service: The 24 service bays are still humming, though wait times can be hit or miss depending on the season.
Honest Advice for Local Owners
If you’ve got a Ford and you’re used to the old Chapman way, don't panic. But maybe change your strategy a little.
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- Check the Tech: If you have a specialty vehicle like a Shelby or a high-end EV, ask if your specific preferred technician is still there.
- Verify Quotes: Some users noted that the new management might be more aggressive with maintenance recommendations. It’s always smart to get a second opinion if a "simple fix" suddenly turns into a $5,000 estimate.
- Use the Quick Lane: For oil changes and tires, the Quick Lane at 1255 Columbus Ave is still one of the fastest spots in town.
The Reality of Buying There Now
Buying a car at the former Chapman Ford Marysville Ohio location feels different now. It’s more corporate, for better or worse. You get the benefits of a larger network—meaning better financing options and a massive used car inventory—but you might lose that "handshake deal" feel that Joe Chapman was known for.
The dealership is still a pillar of the Marysville economy. It provides dozens of local jobs and keeps the tax revenue in Union County. While the name on the sign changed, the 112-year-old foundation of the building hasn't.
Actionable Next Steps
If you need service or a new ride in Marysville, here is how to handle the "new" dealership:
- Call Ahead: Don't just show up for service. The transition has made the schedule tighter. Call their main line at (888) 522-3612 to confirm they have the parts for your specific recall or repair.
- Request a History Report: If you're buying used, ask for the full internal service history. Since they’ve been at that location for decades, they often have records that don't show up on a standard Carfax.
- Be Patient with the Staff: Many of these employees have been through a massive professional upheaval. Treating them like the neighbors they are usually goes a long way in getting better service.
- Follow the Community Boards: Keep an eye on Marysville community groups. If there’s a sudden dip in quality or a new "must-see" service advisor, that’s where you’ll hear it first.
The era of Chapman Ford Marysville Ohio as a family-run shop is over, but the legacy of being Ohio's oldest Ford destination continues under the Coughlin banner. It’s a new chapter for 1255 Columbus Avenue, and for most Ford owners in town, it remains the primary hub for keeping their trucks on the road.