For decades, car dealerships across the United States have operated within the boundaries set by OEMs when it comes to warranty reimbursement. Yet many fail to realize they’re potentially leaving hundreds of thousands of dollars on the table each year. With shrinking margins on vehicle sales and growing competition in service departments, maximizing every revenue stream is more critical than ever. One area ripe for opportunity? Warranty reimbursement.

That’s where Wooden Automotive Consultants LLC comes in. With 35 years of dealership experience spanning every role from technician to General Manager, Robert Wooden leads the firm with unmatched industry insight. He understands your pain points—because he’s lived them—and knows exactly how to turn fixed operations from a cost center into a profit-driving engine.

The Reimbursement Gap: What Dealerships Don’t Know Could Hurt Them

OEMs typically reimburse dealerships for warranty parts and labor at a rate lower than customer-pay retail. Many dealerships accept this as an unchangeable fact of business, unaware that state laws allow them to file for retail warranty reimbursement—which could mean 30% to 50% more revenue for the same work.

Unfortunately, navigating the legal language, data compilation, and submission process to secure these rates can be confusing and time-consuming. One error could delay approval or lead to rejection. That’s why working with a seasoned expert like Robert Wooden is not just smart—it’s essential.

Why Choose Wooden Automotive Consultants LLC?

Unlike generic consultants who offer one-size-fits-all strategies, Wooden Automotive Consultants LLC brings deep operational knowledge and customized solutions for every dealership type—urban, rural, large groups, and family-owned independents.

Here’s what sets them apart:

• Firsthand Dealership Experience: Robert Wooden has worked as a Service Manager, Parts Manager, Fixed Ops Director, and even DMS Administrator. He knows the systems, bottlenecks, and nuances of your workflow.
• Turnkey Retail Reimbursement Submissions: From pulling the right repair orders to compiling the necessary documentation, the firm handles everything—from A to Z.
• Legal Compliance Expertise: With ever-changing state-specific laws, compliance is critical. Robert ensures that submissions align with all regulatory requirements.
• Strategic Dealership Insight: Because Robert has also been on the sales side—as a Salesperson, Sales Manager, and General Manager—he understands how to align service revenue goals with overall dealership growth strategies.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

The average dealership performs thousands of warranty repairs annually. If you're being reimbursed $80 per labor hour but could legally receive $110 or more, the difference adds up fast. For a medium-sized dealership, this can translate into six figures of additional profit per year—without adding new staff or expanding the shop.

Parts markup tells a similar story. Many OEMs reimburse at cost plus 40%, while your customer pay retail might be 70% or more. Submitting for retail parts markup can dramatically increase your gross parts profit without lifting a wrench.

Streamlining the Process: What to Expect When You Partner with Wooden Automotive Consultants

Step 1: Discovery Call
Robert personally connects with you to understand your current reimbursement situation and dealership structure.

Step 2: Data Review & RO Selection
His team identifies the best repair orders to build a compelling case that reflects your true retail rates.

Step 3: Submission Preparation
All documents, legal citations, and rate calculations are prepared for your state’s specific requirements.

Step 4: Filing & Follow-up
The team submits your request to the OEM and monitors the process, responding to any queries or pushback.

Step 5: Approval & Implementation
Once approved, your new reimbursement rates are implemented—adding significant revenue directly to your bottom line.

Common Misconceptions About Warranty Reimbursement

• “It’s too complicated.”
  That’s why consultants like Robert Wooden exist. You don’t have to tackle this alone.
• “Our rates are already fair.”
  OEMs rarely offer rates close to what you charge your retail customers. Without a formal request, you’re likely underpaid.
• “We’re too small for it to matter.”
  Even small dealerships stand to gain tens of thousands annually. Size doesn’t determine eligibility.

A Trusted Advocate in a Complex Process

Dealerships need more than just compliance—they need someone who understands both the operational and strategic side of fixed ops. Robert Wooden’s unique background bridges both. His firm isn’t about cookie-cutter templates; it’s about personalized consulting backed by decades of real-world experience.

And his results speak volumes. Dealerships that have partnered with Wooden Automotive Consultants LLC often return year after year, not just for warranty consulting, but also for broader fixed operations guidance, IT/DMS strategy alignment, and operational training.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Act Now

The longer you wait to submit for proper warranty reimbursement, the more money you leave on the table. As state laws evolve and OEMs adjust to dealer pushback, there's never been a better time to reclaim what you're rightfully owed.

Choosing Wooden Automotive Consultants LLC means choosing a partner who has walked in your shoes, understands your challenges, and is dedicated to increasing your dealership’s profitability through smart, legal, and effective reimbursement strategies.