Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers on inventory counts, appraisal pricing, certifications, scheduling, and where we travel.
What is a fixed operations consultant?
A fixed operations consultant helps a dealership's parts and service departments run more accurately and profitably. For us, that means physical parts inventories, inventory analysis, buy/sell asset assessments, and training for service managers, advisors, and phone sales teams.
How often should a dealership do a physical parts inventory?
At least once a year. An annual physical parts inventory is essential to fixed operations success, because the NADA reports the average parts inventory is 65% or more inaccurate or inactive.
Why use a third-party service instead of my own staff?
We are licensed, bonded, and insured, so the liability of having non-dealership personnel perform your count rests with us. Our pricing also reveals the true cost of using your own employees, and an independent count gives you a reliable performance rating tool for your parts manager.
How is a buy/sell fixed asset assessment priced?
For dealers with an asset schedule: 1.0% (minimum $7,500 per manufacturer). For dealers without an asset schedule: 1.5% (minimum $7,500 per manufacturer). Travel is billed at net cost. See full buy/sell pricing.
How is a remote buy/sell physical inventory priced?
A pre-inventory analysis (optional) and post-inventory analysis (required) are each 0.50% of counter pad value, with a $1,750 minimum each. Choosing both earns a 10% discount. On-site buy/sell engagements are quoted individually due to their complexity.
What is NEBB MCMEA certification?
MCMEA is the Master Certified Machinery & Equipment Appraiser credential from the NEBB Institute. As certified appraisers, our valuation reports stand up to scrutiny from banks, lenders, the IRS, attorneys, insurers, and CPAs.
How long are appraisals good for?
Appraisals are valid for 180 days.
What does your training program cover?
Service manager development, service advisor standards, and phone sales — phone skills, selling on the drive, parts-to-service collaboration, and culture building — powered by our Mitchell Automotive platform.
Which dealer management systems (DMS) do you work with?
CDK Global, Reynolds & Reynolds, Dealertrack, Tekion, and all major dealer management systems. When a physical inventory is complete your DMS is updated with accurate quantities and correct bin locations.
Will my parts department have to close during a physical inventory?
No. You choose the schedule. We count during normal business hours or after hours and on weekends, whichever is less disruptive and less costly for your store.
Do you travel?
Yes. We are based in Phoenix, Arizona, and travel to dealerships across the United States and Canada.
Do you provide free estimates?
Of course. Please contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.
How long have you been in business?
Mitchell Automotive Service has been guiding dealership fixed operations since 1987, over 30 years.
Still Have a Question?
If your question is not answered here, call (602) 527-6261 and you will reach someone who has actually worked in a parts department. You can also send us a message or read more about our fixed operations services.
Ready to get your fixed operations in shape?
Free, no-obligation quotes. We travel throughout the U.S. and Canada.