Even in difficult times for the auto industry, Auburn’s Scarff Ford continues to make an impression.

Most notably, with its customers.

Scarff Ford, Auburn’s oldest business, recently won the 2008 President’s Award, one of the most prestigious honors Ford Motor Co. annually bestows upon a dealership. Scarff was one of 327 Ford dealers out of 3,900 nationally to receive the award.

“It’s a matter of taking care of our customers and exceeding our sales expectations,” said Way Scarff, third-generation owner and operator of the family business. “It’s something to be proud of. It’s done a lot for the morale of our employees who have done so much and worked so hard for our customers.”

According to Ford Motor Co. executives, Scarff Ford demonstrated leadership among its peers, the community and with customers, representing the best in automotive retailing.

“The community supports us, and we support the community,” Scarff said.

The recession has hit auto and truck sales hard. Across the country, dealerships have consolidated, even closed, and others have made significant cutbacks, from operating expenses to layoffs.

Scarff Motors and its competition along Auburn’s auto row have not been immune.

Still, Scarff Ford continues to persevere.

“We have a real sound future – I’m real happy about that,” Scarff said.

Scarff Ford has a rich history in South King County, ever since Scarff’s grandfather, Wayland Scarff, started the dealership in 1922, a few blocks from its present location.

“We appreciate the legacy of the 86 years and appreciate some of the founding ideas of being honest and doing what’s best for the customers,” Scarff said.

ALSO

Scarff Ford pledged nearly 73,000 pounds of food to the Rotary First Harvest through the dealership’s referral program. … Scarff Ford will hold a “Cruise 4 UR School” fundraiser on May 2. For each person who comes to Auburn Mountainview High School, 28900 124th Ave. SE, and test drives a vehicle, Ford Motor Co. will donate $20 to the school’s booster club. Test drives will be conducted from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no obligation to the customer. One test drive per household. Participants must have a valid driver’s license. Ford Motor Co.’s Randy Ortiz, program director, will be on hand, along with Mayor Pete Lewis and others. For more information, call (253) 833-1500.