Modern dealerships manage massive volumes of sensitive customer information—from CRM records to telematics data—which makes data security more critical than ever. As connected vehicles, third-party integrations, and AI-driven systems expand, new vulnerabilities emerge that can lead to breaches, legal exposure, and operational disruption. By tightening governance, training employees, and deploying layered cybersecurity defenses, dealerships can reduce risk, safeguard customer trust, and prepare for a more connected automotive future.

In today’s dealerships, bad leadership and broken systems are wrecking morale and costing millions in lost revenue. This guide shows Service Advisors and Managers how to survive dysfunctional cultures, overcome bias, and build a stronger Fixed Ops department—no matter who’s running the show.

Automakers are rapidly moving away from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in favor of AI-powered infotainment systems that offer deeper integration, better data control, and a more seamless driving experience. From personalized recommendations to intelligent EV routing, these native systems are redefining how drivers interact with their vehicles—and shaping the future of in-car technology.

Join Chris Collins and the SDR team for a Service Department roundtable on what’s changed in Fixed Ops leadership. Discover timeless lessons, new industry trends, and insights that every Service Manager and Advisor can use to lead stronger teams and drive dealership success.

LOS ANGELES (October 28, 2025) – Amidst one of the retail automotive industry’s roughest markets, renowned Performance Coach Chris “Bulldog” Collins highlights a critical shift: Service and Parts Departments (Fixed Operations) are single-handedly driving dealership profitability. Citing the national rise in average on-road vehicle age to nearly 14 years, Collins asserts that fixed absorption is now the single biggest opportunity for dealership growth in 2025 and beyond.

In this post, Chris Collins and Christian Lafferty uncover the hidden culture killers inside your service department—from toxic habits to leadership blind spots that quietly destroy team performance and profit.

In this post, Chris Collins, Christian Lafferty, and Hogi break down the 7 biggest Service Advisor pay plan mistakes hurting performance—and reveal how smarter structures can boost CSI, retention, and profit in your Fixed Ops department.

In this post, Chris Collins and the team reveal how the Moneyball approach applies to Fixed Ops. From pay plans and hiring practices to separating facts from feelings, learn how Service Managers and Advisors can build a profitable shop with a winning culture.

In this post, Chris Collins and Christian sit down with Clint Pulver to reveal the leadership strategies that actually keep technicians and advisors from leaving. Learn how status interviews, culture, and mentorship turn high turnover into long-term retention.

In this post, Chris Collins and Christian reveal why technician pay isn’t the real reason techs leave—and what Service Managers can do instead. From training advisors to fixing broken systems and protecting shop culture, you’ll learn the leadership moves that keep top technicians loyal and productive.

In this post, Chris Collins and Christian break down the 7 career steps every Service Manager needs to become a General Manager—from mastering Fixed Ops numbers to building a leadership mindset that owners can’t ignore.