In this episode of the Independent Dealer Podcast, Jeff Watson and Luke Godwin sit down with Patrick O'Brien, Director of Government Relations and Compliance at NIADA, for a straight-shooting breakdown of the FTC's 97 warning letters to dealerships — what they mean, why they were sent, and what every dealer needs to do right now. From the vacated CARS rule to out-the-door pricing, Patrick pulls back the curtain on what Washington is actually doing to police market conduct in 2026.

What You'll Learn:

Why the FTC issued 97 warning letters to dealerships — and what happens next if they don't clean up their act

How the Lindsay Auto Group consent agreement is a preview of what enforcement actually looks like

What "out-the-door price" really means under Section 5 of the FTC Act — and why doc fees can no longer be hidden

Whether independent dealers can (or should) report franchise stores that are still doing it wrongHow NIADA and NADA are working together — and where they disagree — on right to repair and safety recall legislation

Why the NIADA Convention in Denver (June 21–24) is the place to get compliant and get ahead

If you're an independent or BHPH dealer trying to navigate the FTC's crackdown on deceptive pricing, this episode is required listening.

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Buckeye Risk Services - Reinsurance and wealth strategies for independent dealers.

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Follow & Connect:

Website: www.theindependentdealer.com

Facebook Group: @independentautogroup

Luke Godwin: @lukegodwin

Jeff Watson: /sendtojeffw

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