Newsletter + Article Archives

Everything You Need to Know to Be a Successful and Competitive Automotive Dealer in Virginia.

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Barrie: FTC Crackdown on Deceptive Pricing Practices: What this Means for Auto Dealers

September 21, 2026

September 21, 2026 By Barrie Charapp Beaty Charapp & Weiss, LLP bbeaty@cwattorneys.com On August 19, 2026, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the State of Connecticut secured a $4 million

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Barrie: An Open Letter to Manufacturers

September 21, 2026

As you are aware, in March 2026, the FTC issued a warning to every dealer in the nation that the price advertised must include all fees but for government fees. On September 15,
2026, the FTC confirmed that not only the dealers are responsible, but the manufacturers.

Barrie: Dealers Need to be Training… Consistently and Often

August 20, 2026

Dealers constantly face the challenge of managing and training employees to work steadily and uniformly to reach the dealership’s goals. Employees may resist mandated training, but ignoring the need for such consistent efforts, especially on compliance, can be costly.

Barrie: With Aftermarket Products, Does the Vehicle Warranty Still Apply?

August 20, 2026

In the age of AI, consumers have looked to the internet to make certain claims against dealers. So there has become an uptick in questions around whether certain aftermarket products void vehicle warranties.

Dealers Shifting Gears for Good: August

August 20, 2026

As summer draws to a close across the Commonwealth, Virginia’s auto dealers continue to show their communities that their commitment runs deeper than the sale. From bringing comfort to young

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A fair shot at the American dream

August 19, 2026

Everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed in this business. And the more our dealerships reflect the people and communities they serve, the stronger our industry will be.

Barrie: Dealer Myths

July 21, 2026

Occasionally, we discuss dealership myths — things that “everyone knows”, even though they may not be true. Here are some you should consider.

Barrie: Insurance Coverages: Do You Have Proper Coverage for Everyday Issues?

July 21, 2026

Understanding and maintaining adequate insurance coverage is not merely the best practice; it is a critical component of sound management and compliance.

Barrie: Buyers Guides and FTC Used Car Rule Compliance

July 21, 2026

The original Used Car Rule was promulgated by the Federal Trade Commission in 1985. While there are few dealership employees who were active before the Rule was put in place, there is still some confusion surrounding the completion of the buyers guide. This was caused in part in early 2017 when the Rule was revised, and the buyers guide was redesigned.