Throughout history, humans have designed and created technology to make their lives easier. From the invention of the wheel itself to the eventual creation of the automobile, to today’s computer-integrated vehicles, we are more dependent on technology to improve our experiences than ever before. 

But with that technology comes challenges. Most of us cannot even get our cellphone texts and emails 100% accurate with autocorrect. And the worst case, with cellphones, is that we end up sending an inaccurate or inappropriate text message. However, when it comes to our vehicles, malfunctions can have deadly consequences. Today’s software-and-chip-driven engineering places our lives on the line while traveling 60 miles per hour… and, it seems, we may be relying on technology prematurely, especially automated self-driving technology.

The fact is the roads we traverse daily just are not built for the proposed self-driving cars. What happens when you mix them in with drivers who choose to operate the vehicle themselves?  Between cutting other drivers off, tailgating, and a little road rage from those other drivers, self-driving cars are not programmed to handle these types of issues. Not only are computers operating those self-driving cars, but driver-operated vehicles also have features controlled by computers such as collision avoidance braking or lane correction. The combination of the two modes may be akin to mixing sodium and water… BOOM!

According to a recent article in Automotive News, AAA’s director of automotive engineering and industry relations said that these systems, “do not perform consistently, especially in real-world scenarios.”

I am not suggesting that automated and in-vehicle technology lacks promise, but there could (and probably will be) more complications as they unfold in the real world. People have already died by becoming too dependent on new technologies such as Tesla’s automated driving. The car simply was not programmed to handle the intricacies of real-world driving conditions and drivers/owners were not sufficiently trained to understand the limitations.

It is similar to an iPhone software update. Some people will download it immediately and then discover that some features do not work properly. Some will advise others to wait for future versions and updates before upgrading. The same applies to any technology. But it does pay to be wise – especially if that technology hurtles you and your family through space at 60 miles per hour.

I am certainly not against luxury and relaxing. Wouldn't it be great to just recline the seat, take a nap, and arrive safely at your destination just as you awaken?  But technology will continue to be developed and released, even if it is not perfect. Recalls and the deadly consequences that surround them are inevitable if self-driving vehicles are released prematurely and we do not also introduce seamless methods for software patches and upgrades to vehicles. 

Vehicles are no iPhones. Is there a solution right now? No. I look forward to the day when all manufacturers can reassure consumers that their technologies are sound, and our government ensures that the risk is less than that of our status quo. The march towards self-driving should include a quest for safer cars, not convenience, luxury, or commercial gain.

I will be watching. And rest assured, the whole automotive industry will also.

While traveling through Asia, Alexander the Great fell ill. Everyone was afraid to treat him, as they feared that, if they failed, they would be blamed for the King’s death. However, one physician was willing. While Alexander waited for the physician to prepare the medicine, he received a letter informing him that this physician was not to be trusted and planned to kill him. Alexander told no one. When the physician came into the room with his medicine, the King took the medicine from him while handing the physician the note. As the physician read the note the King drank the medicine. The physician was horrified and threw himself down at the bedside of the King. The King replied calmly that he had complete confidence in the physician. The King recovered within three days.

I share this story because you could draw a parallel to the auto industry and the trust consumers place in the dealer that any vehicle they buy from you is safe. What would have happened if Alexandra’s doctor had bad intentions? I love our auto industry community and know full well that most dealerships have good intentions when selling a vehicle. My message is to ensure current conditions do not force you to make bad decisions when it comes to recalls and vehicle safety.

COVID-19 has had a huge impact on many dealerships across the United States with significant financial damage. Lack of inventory has become a major problem. A recent article in Automotive News shares how dealers are struggling to acquire inventory. In one case, a dealer was literally at a one-day turn and in the article states, “We get 10 off the truck, we sell 10 the next day.” That is a pretty quick turnaround considering service, recon, and detailing for a front-line sale. The article does not mention whether these truck acquisitions are for on or off-brand. However, it would certainly be a tight schedule if a safety recall were involved.

Used vehicles are the money-makers at most dealerships. The ability to buy a vehicle at auction; via trade or from another dealer; and then sell it quickly gets dealerships back into the black quickly.

In my opinion, there are a couple of simple things that may help when choosing which vehicles to buy.

1. Be aware of any open safety recalls on the units you are considering for purchase at auction or at the time of trade-in. Several software options make this process simple or a free search on the Internet. If you are looking for a unit for a quick turn, you may want to pass on those vehicles. Sure, you can legally sell vehicles with open safety recalls, but remember that your reputation is at stake, and you could have financial liability under state laws that govern unsafe products. Currently, consumers can be even more emotional about the purchase than usual and you could, potentially, place your dealership at risk for expensive litigation should something go wrong.

1. If you do acquire a vehicle with an open safety recall, be prepared to complete it before the sale. While there is nothing wrong with buying a vehicle with an open safety recall (especially if it is a bargain), you would be wise to factor in the time it will take to complete that repair. If you are willing to hold the unit for a little while to fix the recall, that’s great!

The moral of this story is that it always makes sense to be responsible for the vehicles you sell to consumers. Your customers will hold you to that standard. It is a great point for customer relations leading to more positive customer reviews, CSI, and increased profitability – a win-win!