Driving Solutions with Jim Fitzpatrick, powered by CBT News

Car buyer satisfaction has reached record highs as dealerships focus on every segment of the consumer journey, embracing AI and personalization to meet customer expectations. Four key factors driving this improvement include better-informed consumers, transparent communication, knowledgeable staff acting as partners rather than adversaries, and customers feeling more in control of their purchasing...

Amberly Allen from Dealer Merchant Services explains how dealerships can save significant money by properly implementing credit card surcharge programs while staying compliant with regulations. • Working with 1,000 dealers in 45 states and endorsed by 14 state associations • Finding hidden fees and rate increases in 26-page confusing credit card statements  • Providing on-site implementation with...

Commercial vehicles represent a significant profit opportunity for dealers as OEMs shift focus from cars to trucks and commercial fleets, creating an avenue for business-to-business relationships built on loyalty and repeat sales. • Detroit 3 automakers increasingly relying on trucks and SUVs after eliminating less profitable product lines • Commercial customers lose $2,000-$5,000 daily when vehic...

The automotive retail landscape is shifting dramatically, and smart dealers are focusing on what they can control: fixed operations. In this eye-opening conversation with Ryan Maher, CEO of Busy Car and third-generation dealer, we uncover how properly managed recall campaigns have become a secret weapon for driving both revenue and retention during uncertain times. Did you know there are 70 millio...

Chase Abbott explores the surprising disconnect between dealer awareness and implementation of consumer behavior insights, revealing how quality, first-party data can transform customer experiences and increase sales. • Over 90% of dealers know about customer behavior insights, yet fewer than 20% actually use them • Outdated or inaccurate data creates poor customer experiences and missed sales opp...

The automotive buy-sell market is experiencing a slight slowdown with transaction activity down 14% in Q1 2025 compared to 2024, though still running 70% above pre-pandemic levels. The current market shows interesting shifts with single-store sellers dominating transactions while multi-dealership deals decline amid financial market volatility. • Buy-sell market annualizing at about 375 transaction...

Dave Steinberg, President and CEO of FourEyes, reveals powerful strategies for dealerships navigating today's challenging economic environment. As tariffs and market uncertainty shake consumer confidence, Steinberg explains why dealerships need a fresh approach to measuring performance and managing sales expectations. Drawing from FourEyes' analysis of 40,000+ salespeople nationwide, Ste...

The data revolution has arrived at automotive dealerships' doorsteps, and those who harness it effectively are seeing remarkable results. Customer Data Platforms (CDPs) have quickly evolved from industry jargon to essential technology that's transforming how dealerships connect with car shoppers and owners. In this illuminating conversation, Cox Automotive executives Jade Teraberry and S...

Ever wonder why some dealerships are saving $10,000+ monthly while others get hit with compliance violations for their credit card practices? The answer lies in understanding the complex web of federal laws, state regulations, and card brand rules governing credit card surcharging in automotive retail. Amberlee Allen, founder and managing partner of Dealer Merchant Services, reveals how her compan...

The automotive retail landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, with dealerships facing a sobering 30% decline in profitability compared to 2022 highs. Market volatility, rising floor plan expenses, and increasing advertising costs are squeezing margins like never before. But amidst these challenges, forward-thinking dealers are discovering pathways to sustainable success. In this eye-ope...