To my fellow Independent Dealers and valued Vendor Partners,
This magazine relaunch is a big moment for IADAC After six years, we’re bringing back a publication dedicated to YOU the hardworking dealers and the vendors who support our success
To our vendor partners—thank you. Your support makes this magazine possible, and your commitment to California’s Independent Dealers keeps our industry strong
HUMBERTO BEAS
IADAC President
Independent Dealer
Proud IADAC Member
To my fellow IADAC members you’ve been through some tough years. The world changed, the industry shifted, and challenges kept coming But you never gave up on IADAC, and because of that, we’ve come out stronger.
For me, IADAC has been an incredible source of information and support for my business As a dealer, a father, and someone who understands the demands of running a dealership, I know how important it is to have the right tools and connections That’s why I encourage every California Independent Dealer to join IADAC and take full advantage of the resources, advocacy, and programs available to help you build a profitable business
We’re here for you Let’s move forward, grow stronger, and make the next chapter even better together.
IADAC Past Presidents
FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP Investing in the Future!
The IADAC Foundation Scholarship, founded in 2021 and launched in 2024, provides academic scholarships to support the families and employees of Independent Dealers, recognizing achievement and fostering future industry leaders
Dealer Member Benefit Academic Excellence $2,500 Awards
Only Dealer Members' children, grandchildren, employees, and employees' children qualify
The IADAC Scholarship recognizes and rewards outstanding achievement
Chosen recipients will receive up to $2,500 each
�� Opens: May 1, 2025 ⏳ Deadline: July 31, 2025
Welcome to the Independent Quarterly
BY JOHN FRAPPIER IADAC Executive Director
Today marks the relaunch of IADAC’s magazine, formerly West Coast Dealer nowThe Independent Quarterly. We’re excited to bring you a publication focused on dealer success, industry updates, and resources to help you navigate California’s Independent auto market.
The Strength of IADAC Membership
If you’re an IADAC Member, your support strengthens California’s Independent Dealer community If you’re not yet a member, now is the time to join and take advantage of exclusive dealer benefits, compliance resources, and industry advocacy
Representing California’s Independent Dealers
IADAC is the only association dedicated solely to Independent Dealers, ensuring you have the support you need to succeed
Our Mission:
Advocacy – Fighting for fair regulations & legislation
Education – Providing Continuing Ed & Pre-Licensing Courses Resources – Offering dealer tools, discounts, & industry support
The #1 Dealer Benefit – VIP Auction Card Program
IADAC members receive $3,200+ in Buy Fee Discounts at top auctions, including Adesa, E-Block, Manheim, North Bay Auto Auction, Norwalk Auto Auction, and WSM Auto Auction helping dealers cut costs and maximize profitability.
2025 Events & Community
We’re expanding dealer events and want your input! In addition to Lunch & Learns and Webinars, we’re considering Casino Nights and GolfTournaments to offer more networking and learning opportunities. What events matter most to you? Visit the Events page to share your feedback
Dealer Spotlight: Ben Libby, Highway Motors
A special thank you to Ben Libby of Highway Motors in Chico, CA, our Q1 2025 Dealer Spotlight His journey from restoration expert to successful dealership owner is an inspiring example of growth, customer service, and commitment to the industry
Looking Ahead
This magazine is here to serve Independent Dealers we encourage you to connect with our advertising vendors who support the industry
Next Issue: Q2 Arrives in May – Stay tuned for more insights, updates, and dealer success stories
Thank You to Our Vendor Partners
This publication is made possible by the generous support of our vendor members thank you for investing in California’s Independent Dealer Network.
Here’s to a strong year ahead for Independent Dealers!
SAVE MORE. EARN MORE. GROW MORE.
Join IADAC Today!
Make 2025 your best year yet!
Become an IADAC Member today and start saving over $2,500. For less than $1 a day, gain access to exclusive savings, tools, and benefits designed to help your dealership succeed.
Navigating Changes in California’s Automotive Industry
BY THE IADAC LEGISLATIVE TEAM
As we progress through 2025, several legislative developments are poised to impact California’s automotive sector, particularly affecting Independent Used Car Dealers and their sales operations. IADAC works tirelessly to ensure that dealers' voices are heard in Sacramento, advocating for fair policies and regulatory clarity to support the success of Independent Dealerships
Revisions to the Lemon Law
California’s lemon law, designed to protect consumers from defective vehicles, has undergone significant changes Recent amendments introduce a two-tier system, allowing certain automakers to opt out of dispute resolution processes This shift aims to reduce judicial system burdens but has raised concerns about consumer protections and how warranty claims for resold vehicles are handled.
⚠ What This Means for Dealers:
Certain manufacturers may no longer be obligated to honor warranties on resold vehicles.
Expect potential changes in arbitration and dispute resolution processes
Stay informed on compliance updates through IADAC’s legislative advocacy efforts �� More info: calmatters.org
Proposed Right-to-Cancel Legislation
Senate Bill 766 proposes a 10-day cancellation period for used vehicle purchases or leases, expanding consumer rights
If enacted, dealers would be required to:
Provide clear disclosures about the cancellation right.
Maintain compliance records for seven years. Avoid misrepresentation of vehicle information or unnecessary add-on charges.
Status:This bill is currently under legislative review, with IADAC monitoring its progress to ensure it balances consumer protection with dealer fairness �� More info: legiscan.com
Tax Payment Procedures for Used Vehicle Dealers
Effective January 1, 2025 – Dealers conducting 300 or fewer retail sales in 2023 must remit sales taxes directly to the DMV when submitting registration applications.
⚠ Why This Matters:
Changes how and when sales tax payments are processed
Non-compliance could result in penalties or registration delays
IADAC is working to ensure a smooth transition and dealer education on the new tax process
�� More info: cdtfa.ca.gov
Minimum Wage Increase & Business Impact
New California Minimum Wage: $16.50/hour for all employers, effective January 1, 2025.
Potential Impact on Dealerships:
Increased operational costs, particularly for hourly workers. Necessity for adjusting financial planning to accommodate rising wages
Potential changes in hiring strategies and workforce management
�� More info: aftermarketmatters.com
WhyThis Matters & How IADAC Protects Dealers
Regulations change fast in California IADAC’s LegislativeTeam actively monitors these developments, fights against burdensome regulations, and ensures Independent Dealers are represented in policy discussions.
✅ Stay Ahead of Regulatory Changes
✅ Gain Exclusive Access to Compliance Resources
✅ Get Direct Support for Dealer Challenges
Want to be part of the conversation? Join IADAC today and ensure your dealership stays compliant, competitive, and protected
�� Learn More & Get Involved: www.IADAC.org
Industry Webinars & Training Sessions for Used Car Dealers
March 2025
Motor Vehicle Dealers Webinar (CDTFA)
�� March 12, 2025 | ⏰ 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PDT
Covers leasing, repossessions, trade-ins, DMV requirements, and tax updates
�� Register Here
Introduction to VehicleTitling & Registration – Part 1 (RMP)
�� March 11, 2025 | ⏰ 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM PDT
Covers fundamentals of vehicle titling and registration in California.
�� Register Here
Introduction to VehicleTitling & Registration – Part 2 (RMP)
�� March 13, 2025 | ⏰ 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM PDT
Continuation of Part 1 with deeper insights into title processing.
�� Register Here
April 2025
Used Car DealersTax Return Preparation Webinar (CDTFA)
�� April 29, 2025 | ⏰ 10:30 AM – 11:45 AM PDT
Step-by-step guide on sales & use tax return filing, ROS requirements, and out-of-state sales.
�� Register Here
May 2025
Dealer Compliance & Digital Marketing Webinar (TBD)
�� Date: May (TBD)
Covers compliance updates, digital marketing, and dealership growth strategies
�� Key Contacts for Dealer Licensing & Compliance
�� DMV Occupational Licensing Unit
☎ (916) 229-3126
�� DMV Occupational Licensing
�� CDTFA Customer Service Center (Tax & Fees for Dealers)
☎ 1-800-400-7115 (CRS:711)
�� CDTFA Motor Vehicle Dealers Guide
�� OL Inspector Field Office Locations (For Licensing & Inspections)
Covina: (626) 974-7140
El Cerrito: (510) 231-7818
Fairfield: (707) 864-4759
Fresno: (559) 445-5304
Hayward: (510) 293-1720
For more updates, visit the DMV and CDTFA websites.
Meta (Facebook & Instagram) ads let you target exactly who’s looking for a car in your area
YouTube pre-roll ads (the ones before videos) are cheap and crazy effective for showcasing inventory
CUSTOMERS WANT“AMAZON-LIKE” SHOP
They’re used to instant info, price comparisons, and online financing.
Dealers who make it stupidly easy to browse inventory an apply online are winning
✅ Action Step: Get a clean, mobile-friendly website with: Real-time inventory updates
Easy financing application “Chat Now” option for quick responses
REVIEWS & REFERRALS = FREE MARKETING
✅ Action Step: Start small $5-$10/day can bring in new leads! THEBOTTOMLINE?GETONLINE,GETSEEN,GETSALES.
92% of customers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. 90% of customers read the reviews before visiting a business
More 5-star reviews = More customers choosing you over the next guy
✅ Action Step: Ask every happy customer to leave a review on Google & Facebook. Bonus: Make it easy by providing a direct link and a quick thank-you message!
A lot full of possibilities Highway Motors keeps California drivers on the road with dependable vehicles and in-house financing.
Ben & Holly Libby – Highway Motors Building trust, delivering quality, and keeping customers connected—on the lot and online. (Holly serves on the Board ofTrue North Housing Alliance, assisting a local homeless shelter.)
CALENDAR
JANUARY
2025 Dealer Resources & Events
�� Monthly Dealer Store Promo Launch
�� Date: January 1
�� Kick off monthly promos for the IADAC Dealer Supply Store, highlighting savings and member-exclusive deals!
FEBRUARY
�� Vendor Membership Drive Launch
�� Dates: February 1–29
��Member Benefits: Listing on website/app/magazine, Ad Platforms, Discounts & Dealer Engagement.
�� February Dealer Store Promo & New Products
MARCH
�� Q1 Digital Magazine Launch
�� Date: March 7
��First edition of the IADAC Digital Magazine for 2025 Showcase resources for members
�� March Dealer Store Promo & New Products
APRIL
�� Dealer Membership Drive Launch
�� Dates: April 1-30
�� Member Benefits: VIP Auction Coupons, Dealer Supply Store, CE Course, Scholarships, Webinars and Events.
�� April Dealer Store Promo & New Products
MAY
�� Webinar Series Launch
�� Date: April (TBD)
�� Educational series on compliance, legislation, digital marketing, and dealership growth strategies
�� Scholarship Applications Open
�� Date: May 1
�� May Dealer Store Promo & New Products
JUNE
�� Q2 Digital Magazine
�� Date: June 6
�� Nor-Cal Micro-Event - Lunch & Learn
�� Date: June (TBD)
�� Exclusive in-person networking event with educationdriven discussions for dealers & vendors.
�� June Dealer Store Promo & New Products
JULY
�� Webinar Series Continues
�� Date: July (TBD)
�� Legal Q&A series on dealership contracts, compliance, and risk management
�� Scholarship Applications Close
�� Date: July 31
�� Final date to submit scholarship applications
�� July Dealer Store Promo & New Products
AUGUST
�� Scholarship Awards Announced
�� Date: by August 31
�� Notify winners and promote their achievements through social media.
�� August Dealer Store Promo & New Products
SEPTEMBER
�� Q3 Digital Magazine
�� Date: September 5
�� Webinar Series Continues
�� Date: July (TBD)
�� Educational & Legal Q&A SeriesTBA
�� September Dealer Store Promo & New Products
OCTOBER
�� So-Cal Micro-Event - Lunch & Learn
�� Date: October (TBD)
�� Exclusive in-person networking event with educationdriven discussions for dealers & vendors.
�� October Dealer Store Promo & New Products
NOVEMBER
�� Foundation Drive Launch
�� Dates: November 1–December 31
�� Fundraising campaign for the IADAC Foundation
�� November Dealer Store Promo & New Products
DECEMBER
�� Q4 Digital Magazine
�� Date: December 5
�� End of Year Dealer Store Promo & Extra Savings
Tell Us the EventsYouWant!
We’re building our 2025 event lineup and want to make sure it delivers real value to California’s Independent Dealers
Would you prefer legal insights over lunch, industry networking meetups, or quick webinars packed with essential updates? Let us know!
Events We Are Planning:
Webinars – Quick, high-impact 1-hour sessions featuring industry vendors and legal experts covering compliance, dealership best practices, and industry trends
Lunch & Learn – In-depth, 4-hour sessions with California industry leaders (DMV, legal specialists, compliance experts) focused on mustknow dealership knowledge
Casino Night or Golf Invitational– Relaxed networking events designed to build dealer-todealer and vendor relationships.
SPECIAL EVENTS
IADAC Foundation Campaign – A year-end fundraising event supporting dealer education, scholarships, and industry advocacy
Tell Us What You Want!
✅ What events would you attend?
✅ What topics matter most to you?
Scan the QR code or visit [Feedback Link] to take a quick survey and share your thoughts!
Let’s build an event calendar that truly supports the success of California’s Independent Dealer community!
ACCOUNTING SERVICES
Kho & Patel, CPA’s
Roger Rossmeisl, CPA (714) 325-0442
roger@khopatel com
Your Go-To Resource for Trusted Solutions
Looking for vendors who know your business and have your back? Start here
Auto Legal Group Ali Rakhsanifar (408) 357-4014 alir@autolegalgroup.com
Anthony Wood (804) 426-8182 anthonygwood@gmail com
ASN Software Marketing Team (559) 324-6360 info@asnsoftware com TECHNOLOGY
VehiclesNETWORK
Kevin Cunningham (208) 818-5302 kevin@vehiclesnetwork com
California CARS Act - What Dealers Need to Know
Overview of CA Senate Bill 766
BY IADAC DEALER PROTECTION TEAM
The California Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Act (Senate Bill 766) presented on February 21, 2025, introduces stricter regulations for dealers, focusing on pricing transparency, add-ons, and consumer protections.
Key Provisions:
No misleading pricing, financing, or add-on sales
Mandatory clear disclosures for pricing, fees, and optional add-ons
Prohibits charging for add-ons that offer no consumer benefit
Introduces a 10-day cancellation right for used car purchases
Dealers must retain compliance records for seven years
HowThis Affects California Independent Dealers
The CARS Act mirrors many elements of the FTC’s nowvacated CARS Rule, meaning California dealers may need to adjust policies and procedures to stay compliant.
Potential Impact on Dealerships
Stricter enforcement on advertised pricing
Closer scrutiny on F&I sales practices
New requirements for consumer protection & recordkeeping
Steps to Strengthen Compliance
✅ Audit your pricing & advertising – Ensure all ads match actual sale prices.
✅ Strengthen compliance documentation – Maintain detailed records of sales, add-ons, and disclosures for 7 yrs.
✅ Train your sales & F&I teams – Educate staff on full disclosure practices & regulatory updates.
✅ Monitor legislative updates – IADAC is tracking this bill and will provide resources & webinars.
For ongoing legal updates and compliance resources, visit www iadac org
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In 2024, a small to mid-size California dealer spent $4,800 on supplies. With IADAC’s member discount, you could save $480 every year!
