OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE Illinois Automobile Dealers Association

2026 Pub. 16 Issue 1​

Executive Director’s Message: Powered by Partnership

Group of professionals putting hands together in huddle

In this edition of Illinois Automobile Dealer News, we’re pleased to feature valuable insights from one of IADA’s long-standing partners, CVR. As we often emphasize, IADA does not merely “endorse” CVR — we are an integral part of the process. Our dedicated staff works directly on your customer applications, processing and auditing all paperwork while managing inventory to ensure accuracy and compliance.

When dealers partner with CVR through IADA, the resulting revenue provides a critical funding source that enables IADA to advocate on your behalf — defending the franchise system for Illinois dealers at both the legislative and legal levels.

Thanks to this partnership, in 2026, IADA will once again advance legislation to further strengthen the Illinois Motor Vehicle Franchise Act as we continually address emerging challenges posed by vehicle manufacturers.

Direct Sales

Legislation will explicitly prohibit manufacturers from bypassing franchised dealers through newly created subsidiaries or entities commonly controlled by the manufacturer. It will also prevent OEMs from spinning off affiliates or brands that sell vehicles directly to consumers, thereby ensuring the continued survival of the franchised dealer model.

Warranty & Recall Repair

IADA plans to introduce legislation to strengthen Illinois law governing manufacturer warranty and recall repairs. This proposal will simplify the warranty submission process by clarifying the exclusion of routine maintenance operations that drag down warranty reimbursement rates. The proposal also reinforces the position of franchised dealers as the primary authorized providers of warranty and recall repairs.

Documentation Fee

IADA will also pursue legislation to increase the allowable documentation fee on vehicle transactions. Currently, two or three doc fees cover more than the full-year membership for IADA.

We hope our diligent efforts on your behalf continue to earn both your membership and, just as importantly, your partnership in our Association programs. As always, we sincerely appreciate your ongoing support of the Illinois Automobile Dealers Association. Our strength and success are, and will always be, a direct reflection of the commitment and engagement of our dealer members.

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