How to Improve Service Profit Margins in Dealerships
Discover practical strategies to improve service profit margins in dealerships through better pricing, technician productivity, upselling, and streamlined workflows.
High Performing Service Advisors: 7 Traits That Drive Results
In SDR #348, Chris Collins explains why systems in Fixed Ops matter more than individual personalities. Discover how leadership structure—not just great people—determines profitability and long-term service department success.
Auto Dealership Budget Hacks for Financial Success 2026
Learn how to build a profitable auto dealership budget by managing cash flow, controlling inventory costs, reducing overhead, and leveraging technology for growth.
Why Dealerships Struggle with Service Bay Utilization
Service bay utilization determines how efficiently your dealership converts shop space into revenue. Discover practical strategies to reduce idle time and increase throughput.
How to Reset a Toxic Shop Culture and Get Your Technicians Back on Your Team
Struggling with negative tech attitudes or a chaotic shop environment? Learn the exact six-step process Chris Collins recommends for rebuilding shop culture, restoring respect for management, and boosting technician productivity.
Auto Dealership Consolidation Trends Reshaping the Market
Auto dealership consolidation is transforming the automotive retail landscape. Learn how mergers and acquisitions, financial pressures, and digital transformation are driving this $100 billion shift. Discover what it means for large dealer groups, independent stores, and the future of buying and servicing vehicles in an evolving market.
Success Boost: Finance Office as Dealership Leadership Hub
Discover how transforming your dealership’s finance office into a true leadership hub can boost profitability, strengthen operations, and drive sustainable growth. Learn why the F&I department is more than just paperwork—it’s the strategic core that unites data, leadership, and performance across every department.
Extended-Range Electric Vehicles Growth and Global Interest
Extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) are gaining global momentum as they solve key barriers slowing EV adoption—range anxiety, charging limitations, and high battery costs. By pairing electric driving with an onboard gasoline generator, EREVs offer long-range capability, lower production costs, and greater accessibility for drivers in charging-scarce areas. Surging sales in major markets, increasing OEM investment, and regulatory incentives suggest EREVs may serve as a critical bridge technology in the transition from gas-powered vehicles to full electrification.
Data Risks in Dealerships: Protecting Customer Information
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.
Service Department Leadership: How to Survive Bad Bosses, Bias & Broken Systems in Fixed Ops
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.
Why Dealers Are Shifting to AI-Powered Infotainment in Vehicles
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.
Service Department Roundtable: What’s Changed in Fixed Ops Leadership
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.
