Thousand Oaks Auto Mall is in survival mode, according to Silver Star Automotive Group Vice President Susan Murata.

“We’re down 30 percent from what we were two years ago,” Murata said.

But although sales are down and the dealerships are cutting back on expenses, Murata said, auto mall dealers are looking on the bright side.

Silver Star opened a Chevrolet dealership last weekend at Thousand Oaks Boulevard and Auto Mall Drive, where the Saturn dealership had been.

The new dealership will take the place of Courtesy Chevrolet, which closed its doors in February after serving Thousand Oaks for 41 years. Westoaks Chrysler Dodge also closed its doors that month.

“We’re excited to have all the remaining GM franchises,” Murata said.

Silver Star also has Acura, Honda, Mercedes, Jaguar, Lotus, Cadillac, Land Rover and Lexus. Pontiac, Saab and Hummer are leaving, Murata said.

“We’re fortunate to be in Thousand Oaks, an affluent community. It’s much worse in some places,” Murata said.

—Nancy Needham