Like us on FACEBOOK: TN Independent Auto Dealers Assoc. -#organicallygrown
Like us on FACEBOOK: TN Independent Auto Dealers Assoc. -#organicallygrown
TNIADA: (931) 265-6143
TNIADA is a dealer community of forward-thinking professionals dedicated to helping businesses achieve their goals, we are the state affiliate to the National Independent Auto Dealers Association. On July 22, 2025 we announced an education platform to support pre-licensing and our first convention in over 10 years this fall for Independent dealers. The Convention is on November 11 will be piggybacking the National "Buy Here Pay Here Dealer Forum "at the LOEWS VANDERBILT Hotel. Register for the BHPH DEALER FORUM at NIADA.com
Our organization offers mentorship, training, and resources to help you build your skills and improve business. We believe that together, we can create a better future for the culture of Tennessee Independents. Used car dealers make up approximately 86% of Tennessee dealers, and we work for real-time solutions. The network includes dealer-members, vendors, auctions, and the State of Tennessee, and our TNIADA Board of Directors are donating time to help fellow dealers.
SPECIAL ANNOUCEMENT: PRESIDENT JON DAVACHI of The Leader Dealer has been named 2025 Quality Dealer of the Year. The celebration and honors will be on Sept 24th, 2025 at Dealers Auto Auction in Murfreesboro. He will be will be our 2026 National candidate for NQD in Denver, Colorado.
WEBINAR: SECRETS OF DEALER SUCCESS, BENEFITS OF CPI by NATIONAL LENDEERS on 9/10, central
ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QW2beW3cS32NmRub9jSc1w#/registration
WEBINAR: LET'S TALK TITLES by TN DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, VEHICLE SERVICES on 9/18, 10am Central, TEAMS CALL: SEPTEMBER 2025 DEALER TRAINING | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams
Congratulations to Thorpe Automotive, Guy and Stephanie, for being nominated the TN Quality Dealer of 2024 and a National Quality Dealer Nominee for 2025 at the National Convention. Check out their bio video created by National:
*JOIN OR RENEW TNIADA/National, 2 for 1: $395
Please join TNIDA today, scroll down for the link and to learn more.
TENNESSEE CONVENTION REGISTRATION USING THIS LINK:
http://niada.com/tniadaconvention
Tuesday, 11-11-25 on Veterans Day at LOEWS VANDERBIKT, NASHVILLE, TN
If you would like to be a sponsor of the event, please email or reach out to us at 931-265-6143
Karen Brown, Executive Director
See Convention Agenda Below, Registration is 9-11am
TNIADA REGISTRATION: 9-11 am (closing session of NAIDA-BHPH DEAERL FORUM)
MAIN HALL EXP- COFFEE WITH THE VENDORS 10-11:30am
LUNCH AND GENERAL SESSIONS IN SYMPHoNY HALL 11:30-1pm
Track 1 – Cost Savings & Tax Law 1:15-2pm
TITLE: Profit from the New Tax Law: Dealer Strategies for 2026
Learn how to turn recent tax changes into real dollars for your dealership. We’ll cover bonus depreciation, QBI benefits, and new deductions that can keep more money in your pocket.
The Road Ahead: Economic Forecasts for Independent Dealers
Get a clear look at the market forces shaping Tennessee and national auto sales. Understand trends, interest rate outlooks, and inventory forecasts so you can plan with confidence.
Track 2 – Federal Laws & Compliance 2:15- 3 pm
Title: Is This Safe: Navigating FTC Rules Without Sinking Your Dealership-Where You Are and Where you Want to Be
The FTC is watching — make sure your dealership is in the clear. Learn the latest compliance standards, how to set effective policies, and the smart way to implement change.
Speedbumps, Potholes and Legal Myths Busted: Avoiding Costly Dealer Mistakes
Think you know the law? Think again. We’ll break down common legal misconceptions and give you practical ways to protect your business from expensive surprises.
Track 3 – AI & Marketing First Hand from TN Dealers 3:15- 4pm
Topic: AI in the Fast Lane: Smarter Marketing & Stronger Branding
Artificial Intelligence isn’t the future — it’s now. Discover how top dealers are using AI to sharpen their brand, boost engagement, and outpace the competition.
From Clicks to Keys: Using AI to Drive Sales and Brand Loyalty
Go beyond lead generation. Learn how AI can target, nurture, and convert customers — turning online clicks into keys in customers’ hands.
Track 4 – Recon & Service: Efficiency and Operations 1:15- 2pm
Topic: Turning Wrenches into Wins: Recon Strategies That Boost Profits
From intake to front-line ready, learn the fastest, most cost-effective recon methods. Get proven tips from top-performing service departments that maximize every repair dollar.
Automate to Elevate: Streamlining Service for Maximum ROI
Leverage automation tools to speed up service, reduce costs, and improve accuracy. See how the right partners can turn your service department into a profit engine.
Track 5 – SALES: Dealer Success Stories from Perspective of End Users 2:15 -3pm
Title: Back in Black: Real-World Dealer Playbooks for Growth
Hear from dealers who turned challenges into record-breaking years. Get actionable strategies you can implement immediately in sales, F&I, and beyond.
From Leads to Loyalty: Converting Opportunities into Sold Units
Stop letting hot prospects cool off. This session reveals proven systems for following up, closing faster, and turning first-time buyers into lifelong customers.
Track 6 – Title & Inventory Tools 3:15-4pm
Title: Trouble No More: Tools & Tips for Faster, Cleaner Deals
Avoid title delays, verification errors, and costly mistakes. Learn how to streamline your title process so deals close smoother and faster.
Paperwork to Profits: Title & Inventory Tactics That Save Time
Master the tools and vendors that keep your inventory moving and your back office humming — all while cutting down on wasted time and headaches
4-5:30 pm EXPO HALL
EVENING ACTIVITES
Register Now for the 7th New and Active Dealer Education Session:
https://www.jotform.com/build/250716523564053
This is Wednesday Afternoon Aug 27, Preview Day
DAA Chat Sale is Thursday Morning Aug 28-Attend both, affordable hotel rates available
See you at Dealers Auto Auction of Chattanooga
***FREE TEAMS WEBINAR: Thursday September 18, 2025 10AM EASTERN
with the TN Dept of Revenue, Vehicle. Make sure someone is on the call from your car lot.
TNIADA welcomed 5 new 2025 board members:
EAST TN:
MIDDLE TN:
WEST TN:
VENDOR/ASSOCIATE:
SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN: NIADA MASTERCARD OFFER KICKOFF FEB 2025
FOR MEMBERS ONLY!
Up to 2.1% unlimited cash back on all purchases
→ 5% cash back on auto parts†
→ We can cover 100% of your NIADA membership dues every year
→ No annual fees
→ Unlimited employee cards with no additional fees
→ QuickBooks integration
→ No effect on personal credit when you apply
→ Generate business expense reports for tax savings
→ Dedicated vendor negotiation specialist
→ No registered business entity required
→ Available to sole proprietors, independent contractors (anyone who files a 1099-NEC/MISC), or anyone who owns a business entity
Let us know if you apply and use, we want your feedback!
NEW RESOURCE: Dealer Manual
State of TN Department of Revenue Released the 2024 Dealer Manual: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/tax_manuals/auto-dealership-guide.pdf
The Department of Revenue is responsible for the administration of state tax laws and motor vehicle title and registration laws and the collection of taxes and fees associated with those laws. The department collects about 87 percent of total state revenue. To learn more about the department, visit www.tn.gov/revenue.
Congratulations to 2025 TENNESSEE Quality Dealer of the year, JON DAVACHI, THE LEADER DEALER and will represent Tennessee at the 2025 NIADA Convention as a National Quality Dealer Nominee.
SAVED THE DATE: 2026 NIADA Convention: Gaylord, Denver Colorado on June 21-23, 2026
TNIADA Economic Development Partners: THANK YOU
MANHEIM NASHVILLE for being an economic development sponsor in 2025 to TNIADA, fostering new education capabilities with technology. We are working on the buildout of a DEALER education platform.
National Lenders General Agency Expands Services – Rolls Out Full Suite of F&I Products for Independent Dealers
Houston, TX – July 8, 2025 — National Lenders General Agency, LLC, a leading provider of Collateral Protection Insurance (CPI) for independent automotive dealers, proudly announces the launch of a full suite of retail F&I products designed to enhance profitability, customer satisfaction, and dealership performance.
Building on its success with CPI and Limited Warranty programs, National Lenders now offers a full range of products including Vehicle Service Contracts, GAP programs, and more. These offerings mark a strategic evolution—positioning National Lenders as a true one-stop F&I partner for the independent retail space.
“Our expansion into the retail F&I product segment is a direct response to dealer demand,” said Ken Terkel, President of National Lenders. “Dealers are looking for flexible, high-quality products that can be easily integrated into their operations. With this new lineup, we’re giving them the tools to drive revenue, protect customers, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.”
Each product is designed to be modular, dealer-friendly, and profit-driven, allowing retailers to bundle offerings or tailor them to individual customer needs. National Lenders provides white-glove support, seamless onboarding, and dedicated account management to ensure dealers can implement these products without operational disruption.
“This is more than just a product expansion—it’s a commitment to empowering our dealer partners,” said Eric S. Hurst, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President. “Retail dealers today are expected to deliver exceptional service, protect their buyers, and generate margin from every transaction. Our expanded suite is designed to help them do exactly that.”
With this move, National Lenders expands its reach across the independent dealer channel, offering high-impact, customer-focused F&I products that strengthen dealer relationships and elevate the ownership experience.
About National Lenders General Agency LLC: National Lenders General Agency LLC is the premier administrator for Empire Indemnity of Texas, Inc. and Empire Indemnity Insurance Company Risk Retention Group, Inc. We specialize in Collateral Protection Insurance (CPI) and F&I products and services, bringing cost-effective, compliant, streamlined solutions to independent and franchise auto dealers nationwide. For more information, visit: https://nationallenders.com/
CONTACT: Krisahn Williams
EMAIL: kwilliams@nationallenders.com
PHONE:812-327-6156
Eric Hurst, COO and EVP, emphasized the significance of this achievement: “Too many operators offer one-size-fits-all solutions that leave clients vulnerable. In contrast, we’ve embraced the rigorous demands of licensing and certification to ensure our clients get truly expert guidance. This new designation is more than a credential—it’s a clear message to dealers that they have a partner who takes their risks as seriously as they do. We’re not here to blend in; we’re here to lead.”
For more information, visit nationallenders
When you join TNIADA you are also a member of NIADA, the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) has advanced independent automobile dealers since 1946 through advocacy, education and promotion. JOIN/RENEW DUES TODAY:
includes savings for over 50 auctions, dealer support, education and NIADA benefits/ membership
Let us know what auction you would like to see on the auction savings list
JOIN OR RENEW USING LINK
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
Each year we conduct our TNAIDA Board Training and Strategic Planning with Nation and the State of TN in Murfreesboro, TN
TNAIDA CONVENTION: 11-11-25 at the LOEWS VANDERBILT in NASHVILLE, TN
TITLE WEBINAR: STATE OF TN DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE & TN-MVC SEPT 18, 10-11 PM Central Mark your calendar, no pre-registration is required: Ask someone to call into this webinar from your car lot. There is no pre-registration required so don’t forget it is on February 11th. Free TEAMS Webinar hosted by TNIADA and Vehicle Services’ Director, Miranda Kelton: “Let’s Talk Titles” including processes, how to’s, frequently asked questions and mistakes, Q&A
7th NEW &ACTIVE DEALER TRAINING at DAA CHATTAGNOOGA, TN on PREVIEW DAY AUG 27, 1-3pm EST
WASHINGTON D.C. POLICY CONFERENCE: SEPT 15-16
NATIONAL CONVENTION IS JUNE 23-26, 2025 in LAS VEGAS- Register at NIADA.com
Over 50 attending from TNIADA - Still time to JOIN US. Call Karen, 931-265-6143
TNIADA Webinar: LEAN INTO IT presents 2025 OUTLOOK by Accounting Partner HHM Dealer Services
Scheduled for June 19th, 2pm Central/ 3pm Eastern
Thursday, April 29th Dealers Night Mix and Mingle at 865 Autos, LLC Knoxville, TN
Also attending ADESA KNOXVILLE Auto Auction Friday, April 30th
Thursday, March 20th New and Active Dealer Education Session at Thoroughbred Auto Auction 9-11:30,
Lunch provided at 11:30 and Sale starts at 1:30. This is Free, invite your team to attend.
Tuesday, Feb 11th Tennessee Title TEAMS Webinar: “Let’s Talk Titles” by the State of TN’s Dept of Revenue, Vehicle Services
Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb 18th and 19th
West TN Buy Here Pay Here Bizapoolza at United Auto Exchange
RSVP appreciated: https://form.jotform.com/250145079096156
Be our guest for a FREE Lunch and Learn is on Tuesday Feb 18th Preview Day from noon-2:30 pm central with BHPH tips, updates and education provided by: United Auto Exchange, United Recovery and Remarketing, Buckeye Dealer Consulting/BHPH United, NIADA 20 Group, American Recovery Assoc, NVP Warranty and many other amazing partners.
Feb 24th National Lenders CPI and Reinsurance Webinar
TNIADA’S Lean Into It Webinar Series: Please go ahead and Register Today using link below for a Monday afternoon, February 24th at 2pm central/3 pm eastern.
Our three areas of focus for TN Independents: Education, Engagement, Efficiency
Let us know what questions you have, we’re happy to help. The next NEW/ACTIVE Dealer Education Session is in March 20th in Clarksville at TAA, more information coming soon.
Use your auction credits at over 50 auctions off buy or sell fees -1 per month, per auction- If you have not downloaded the TNIADA to utilize the savings you are missing out, call and we walk you through it.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: TN DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE Effective: JANUARY 15, 2024
Updated Notice of TN Temp Tags
The Commission may revoke a license for an act or practice involving the sale/ purchase of a motor vehicle that is either false, fraudulent, or deceptive. T.C.A. § 55-17-114 (b) (1) (K). The Commission may take such action against dealerships who have been found in violation of current laws and requirements related to the issuance of temporary tags. Current law provides for the issuance of one (1) temporary plate covering a sixty-day (60 day) period. [T.C.A. § 55-4-226 (c)(4)]Further, any unauthorized use of the temporary tag (EZ Tag), e.g., placing an unauthorized temporary tag on a vehicle for which it is not registered; selling temporary tags for monetary gain, etc. may also result in substantial civil penalties (up to $5,000 per day, per occurrence), suspension, or license revocation.
TENNESSEE DEPT OF REVENUE for RECON
Attention: TN Rebuilders
The Tennessee Department of Revenue is making a change to the rebuilt vehicles application process to ensure compliance with repair requirements and to better serve all rebuilders. Beginning January 15, 2024, the Department will require a picture of the vehicle after repairs have been made. If pictures of both damaged areas and final repairs are not included with your application, approval will be delayed or denied until the information is received. The updated Application for Motor Vehicle Identification Certification for Rebuilt Vehicles is attached and available at:
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/forms/titlereg/f1315401Fill-in.pdf
As a reminder, Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-3-206 requires vehicle repairs to be complete and in accordance with manufacturer’s safety specifications before submitting the application. By signing the Certification Section, you are affirming all repairs were made. If it is determined during the inspection that the vehicle repairs have not been made, the vehicle is not available for inspection, or it was sold prior to the inspection, you could be subject to criminal and civil sanctions. Furthermore, submission of a false application could result in rejection of the application.
If you have any questions about this change, please contact Special Agent Manager Keith Jeffers at keith.jeffers@tn.gov.
2025 TN Department of Revenue
Vehicle Services Dealer Forms and Applications:
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/forms/titlereg/f1311001Fill-in.pdf
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/forms/titlereg/f1317001Fill-in.pdf
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/forms/titlereg/f1310801Fill-in.pdf
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/forms/titlereg/f1310801Fill-in.pdf
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/forms/titlereg/f1313201Fill-in.pdf
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/forms/titlereg/f1310401Fill-in.pdf
https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/revenue/documents/forms/titlereg/f1314401Fill-in.pdf
https://www.tn.gov/revenue/title-and-registration/forms.html
Automotive Dealers have questions,
we have answers!
Call us for problem-solving, 931-265-6143
JOIN- CONNECT-SAVE
In June 2023, FTC passed
Safeguards Compliance requirements.
Solutions:
TIADA (TEXAS) is offering an online class for $75 to the qualified individual (owner/office manager) that can be taken in 1 hour. Your employees can take the 30 minute abbreviated version for $50 each. Group rates apply.
Call Karen, 931-265-6143 for more information or call TEXAS INDEPENDENT AUTO DEALERS ASSOC.
TNIADA HAVE MANY COMPLIANCE PARTNERS that can easily help assess what you need:
Precise Cyber- Nashville, TN
Ignite Consulting
SubRose
Hudson Cook
We advocate for the interests of our members and represent them in legislative and regulatory matters. Join us to have your voice heard and influence policy decisions. Make plans to lobby with NIADA at the 2025 Policy Conference in Washington DC Sept 14-16, Omni
NATIONAL ISSUE: RIGHT TO REPAIR:
Consumers and their designees should have access to their motor vehicle data, critical repair information, tools to repair their vehicles, and not be limited in their choices for the maintenance, service, and repair of their vehicles. Congress should pass H.R. 906, the “Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair Act” (REPAIR Act), as it promotes consumer choice, consumer control and safety. Additionally, Congress should pass H.R. 1707, the “Save Money on Auto Repair Transportation Act (SMART Act), as it would permit alternative parts suppliers to sell aftermarket collision repair parts after a certain time period expires, reducing the consumer’s costs and expenses.
BACKGROUND
The REPAIR Act was re-introduced in February 2023. The REPAIR Act is a bi-partisan proposed bill to require original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to provide a vehicle’s owner with certain data generated by the operation of the vehicle related to diagnostics, repair, calibration and service through a standardized access platform. The bill would also prevent OEMs from mandating specific brands of parts, tools or equipment be used on a vehicle (absent a recall). The proposed legislation allows a vehicle’s owner to designate access of vehicle data to any repair shop of their choice or to personally retain the data. The REPAIR Act will prioritize vehicle and data security by requiring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in consultation with the Federal Trade Commission, to establish rules for access to data through the standardized access platform and establish guidance to ensure the security of vehicle-generated data and vehicles within 1 year of its enactment.
SMART ACT is a bi-partisan proposed bill that will narrowly amend patent law to reduce from 15 to 2.5 years the time that automakers can enforce design patents against alternative parts manufacturers on vehicle parts like bumpers, hoods, quarter panels, and side mirrors. The SMART Act will allow alternative parts suppliers to sell aftermarket collision repair parts once 2.5 years have elapsed from the date of the patent. The SMART Act would not alter the 14-year period that OEMs can enforce design patents against other manufacturers; it would impact only aftermarket repair parts.
TNIADA MEMBERSHIP: 2 for 1 membership: TNIADA & NIADA for $395 -12 months EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY + LEGISLATIVE ISSUES + DEALER EDUCATION + CONVENTIONS + AUCTION SAVINGS + ASSOCIATE SUPPORT + STATE OF TN SUPPORTBecome a MEMBER TODAY: Karenbrown@tniada.com or Call: 931-265-6143
Call to join direct or Online: Link to join is below. Pick TN on US Map, it will take you to NIADA site
https://niada.growthzoneapp.com/tennesseeapplicationtojo
Membership includes National and TNIADA, providing a multitude of opportunities and resources. JOIN/RENEW NOW
"WE WANT YOU!" - TNIADA includes:
A TEAM APPROACH: TNIADA's New/Active Dealer Education Training along with TN Motor Vehicle Commission, & Vehicle Services began these classes for Independents in 2022.
1. Chattanooga November 2022
2. Memphis May 10th, 2023
3. Murfreesboro October 3rd, 2023
4. Knoxville May 16th, 2024
5. Nashville October 1, 2024
6. Clarksville March 20th , 2025
7. Chattanooga August 27, 2025
8. WEST TN IN FEBRUARY 2026
Members benefit from training with associate members to provide a solid foundation.
Do you have a question or idea for us?
Let's talk about it.
JOIN- CONNECT- SAVE
931-265-6143
Thanks for supporting the Independent Dealers of TN
Download TNIADA at Google Play/Apple Store
Once you join the Association, you can have access to the savings:
First-time users:
Download for FREE
Tap on "Rewards"-Scroll down to "Register"
Fill out information and tap on "Submit"
Manager will approve your request
Activated dealers:
Go to Log-in, type in username/password
See list of participating auctions credits
Tap on auction "Credit"
Enter last six of VIN & Tap "Submit" an email will be sent to auction to credit dealer
*request credit at counter when shopping inlane while using app so they credit
The Safeguards Rule took effect in 2003, but after public comment, the FTC amended it in 2021 to make sure the Rule keeps pace with current technology. While preserving the flexibility of the original Safeguards Rule, the revised Rule provides more concrete guidance for businesses. It reflects core data security principles that all covered companies need to implement.
This publication serves as the small entity compliance guide under the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. Your best source of information is the text of the Safeguards Rule itself.
In reviewing your obligations under the Safeguards Rule, consider these key compliance questions.
Join fellow independent auto dealers and partners across the state and nation who are making a difference in motor vehicle industry. If you would like more information about joining TNIADA contact: 931-265-6143 or email Karen Brown, Karenbrown@tniada.com
Like us on fb: TN Independent Dealers Association
The Tennessee Independent Automobile Dealers Association, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501 (c)6 organized in 2001 to support the interests of the independent car dealers.
TNIADA is the only state association affiliated and approved by NIADA, The National Independent Auto Dealers Association.
NOTE: The "join today" link below will connect you to the NIADA membership page. "Pick TN!" NIADA will keep $60 and send TNIADA $335, along with your membership information.
You may mail membership check:
TNIADA
3844
TNIADA is the only state association affiliated and approved by NIADA, The National Independent Auto Dealers Association.
NOTE: The "join today" link below will connect you to the NIADA membership page. "Pick TN!" NIADA will keep $60 and send TNIADA $335, along with your membership information.
You may mail membership check:
TNIADA
3844 Dickerson Rd Nashville, TN 37202
https://niada.com/become-a-member/
Or call to process via Square
931-265-6143