Half of public dealership groups hit record F&I profit per vehicle Five of the six largest public new-vehicle dealership groups increased F&I profit per vehicle on a same-store basis in the fourth quarter. Executives pointed to technology in the F&I office, higher customer traffic and training in underperforming stores as profit boosters. (Automotive News)
The only factor I would explain this with is higher vehicle cost thus higher amount financed. I believe most people these days (certainly more than in the past) understand that insurance policies are much cheaper off contract and interest rates are low. It's also gotten more difficult to sell extended service contracts, for new cars at least, as factory warranties have gotten better. Most dales desks "pack" the payment to make it easier for F&I penetration but in a strong store, it's always been that way.
But what about this? https://www.elitetrader.com/et/thre...3-months-behind-on-their-car-payments.329799/
They are not mutually exclusive. Most F&I profits are paper profits, once the cars are repossessed warranties and insurances will be canceled and F&I profits will be prorated ie revised down. That's why good F&I managers try selling non cancelable items eg mop & glow etc..
Public new-vehicle retailers boost F&I profit per vehicle Higher F&I product sales and partnerships with both vendors and lenders bolstered F&I profit per vehicle for the nation's largest public retailers, though a changing sales mix from new to used vehicles could put pressure on F&I profit down the line. (Automotive News)