Posts by
Mike Sebo
EV? Are you IN or Out?
In conversations with various dealers regarding the preparation for the big push on Electric Vehicles is alarming. While all dealers are accustomed to working with expensive regulations and requirements, the Electric Vehicle push is likely to be the most tenuous and expensive adventure ever. As always, it comes down to the question, “Are you in…
Will the Bank Scare Hurt?
Watching the news about several banks failing recently brought up some scary memories of 2008 and 2009. Hearing the reason why it happened didn’t bring much comfort. Regional banks are getting bailout money and that is likely to continue. Markets seem stabilized for now; however, dealerships must take notice of actions needed to protect cash.…
Preparation for 2023 Dealerships
Preparation for 2023 Dealerships It’s that time of year when we start preparations for next year. Next year will likely see the average age of vehicles on the road approaching a record 13 years. The average mileage on these vehicles will increase as well to record levels. This will create the foundation for a record…
Critical Fixed Operations KPI
Fixed Operation results are critical for dealerships, and many are fearful of the future. We are seeing strong growth in fixed operations however a few opportunities remain. The average age of vehicles in the United States is now over 12 years. This trend will continue for the next several years. The question is, why are…
Finding Talent in a Competitive Market
It’s Tougher Than Ever Regardless of the industry you are in, finding the talent you need to fill positions has become increasingly challenging. Shortages of Technicians, Managers, and everything else including Porters, leave very few options. Many dealerships have reduced their employment standards for applicants, hoping to fill the need quickly. Although I understand the sense…
Know Your Numbers
Whenever I’m looking at opportunities for improvement with dealership clients, our discussion involves a lot of numbers. Some common threads in fixed operations should be looked at together. The largest issue starts with a lack of communication. If you don’t inform and train your advisor, parts, and technician staff on correct policy and procedure practices…
Parts Availability Issues
Parts Availability Issues One of the largest concerns in today’s car dealerships isn’t talked about much. We have heard of chip shortages and the effects on new car sales. Take that concern and multiply substantially, and you are in the parts department. Whenever a technician comes to the counter and asks for a part, the…
Your Warranty Audit
Most dealerships are afraid when they hear the words warranty audit and with good reason. Warranty audits are rising, and most dealerships haven’t prepared. Warranty audits shouldn’t matter because your confidence in staff and processes are being done consistently. Trouble begins when compliance with the policy and procedure manual is never looked over and discussed…
Finding Your Target
Our world of automotive dealerships is fast pace with just getting through the day’s issues requires a lot of time. How we spend our time is vital to getting the results everyone desires. The best practice is always be thinking ahead resolving issues before they affect our business. Finding opportunities in your operations requires time…
What the Manufacturers don’t want you to know
Retail pricing on warranty Parts and Labor The laws that enable dealers to get retail pricing on warranty parts and labor have been passed in all 50 states! If you do not take advantage of the new laws, you are literally walking away from thousands of dollars. Why accept less from the manufacturer than you…