Three of Four Auto Firms Climb on Fortune’s ‘Best Companies’ List

Health benefits, flexible work schedules, and high bonuses made four auto and auto finance firms among the best companies to work for in 2010, according to a ranking by Fortune magazine.

Mercedes-Benz USA, JM Family Enterprises, and USAA climbed the ranks this year to take the 15th, 16th, and 17th spots, respectively. CarMax, meanwhile, fell 25 notches to No. 81.

Here’s the list, along with Fortune’s rationale:

Mercedes-Benz USA

Rank: 15 (previous rank: 49)
What makes it so great?
The sales and marketing arm of the German car maker offers flexible work schedules, compressed workweeks, and a generous telecommuting policy — as well as a gym with two personal trainers and an on-site car wash, of course.

JM Family Enterprises

Rank: 16 (previous rank: 28)

What makes it so great?
The Toyota distributor reinstated benefits that had been cut to cope with the financial crisis (and the Toyota recall). The company also has seven health centers with doctors, nurses, and physical therapists — and an on-site pharmacy.

USAA

Rank: 17 (previous rank: 45)

What makes it so great?
The provider of financial services to members of the U.S. military extended employee health benefits to domestic partners this year. Its 31-acre campus has walking trails, jogging trails, and three state-of-the-art fitness centers.

CarMax

Rank: 81 (Previous rank: 56)

What makes it so great?
After two tough years the used-car retailer rebounded in 2010, hiring 1,200 new employees and awarding the highest bonuses in its history.

What other auto finance companies should be added to the list? Cast a vote for your company in the Comments section below.

Click the links below to read more about each of the auto-related firms in Fortune’s ranking, along with feedback from employees:
Mercedes-Benz USA
JM Family
USAA
CarMax