How much does a car sales manager make and what does a car dealership sales manager salary look like? The answers to these questions can be complicated due to the variations in dealership compensation plans. Since not all sales managers’ salaries are based on performance, it can be difficult to put a set number next to their wages.

The good news is that we can look at information concerning the average automotive sales manager salary.

In general, the average auto sales manager pay plan ranges between $55,000 and $65,000 per year. But others claim that the salaries for these managers can range between $80,000 to $120,000. So why is there such a large gap in the salary ranges?

A car sales manager has a lot of say when it comes to the profitability of a car dealership. In fact, it’s one of the most influential positions in this line of business. That’s why dealerships are constantly looking for experienced and skilled managers who can move the needle in the store.

Car Dealer Sales Manager Salary Pay Plans

The salary of a sales manager at a car dealership is often based on a percentage of the total revenue the business generates in terms of car sales. This involves the front gross which is the profit for the sale of a vehicle and the back gross which is the profit concerning finance products.

One can expect several variations concerning these pay plans such as having a base plus a lower percentage. But the variations in pay plans usually stem from the dealership’s business model and what the store is looking to achieve.

Some car sales managers who receive flat salaries may be less inclined to perform at higher levels than those who are incentivized based on profit.

Is It Possible to Make More Than $100,000 Yearly as a Car Sales Manager?

YES! It’s absolutely possible to earn more than $100,000 per year as a car sales manager. However, it’s important to consider all aspects of a dealership’s pay plan, particularly the percentage you’ll receive from the total sales.

Next, you’ll need to consider how many vehicles per month you’ll need to help sell in order to achieve your desired salary. By doing thorough research on a store’s volume and pay plan, you can get a sense of the kind of revenue that is likely to be generated.

There are also creative ways in which you can help your staff increase sales volume and profits per unit sold. One such way is by engaging your team in daily skill development training. As your team sharpens their skills in lead management, transparent sales practices and a focus on customer satisfaction, revenue will increase. To do this effectively without having to make a significant time investment, look for a proven, self-contained online training program like the ones offered at the College of Automotive Management (CAM).

The Right Training Program Can be a Game-Changer for a Dealership

The greatest challenges sales managers face when considering training for their teams are the investments of time and money. Finding a highly effective training program in which their salespeople can engage without taking time off work is paramount to the success of the training. It’s also essential for the training to be cost effective, giving them a good return on their investment.

That’s why the College of Automotive Management developed a completely online training program that can be accessed from any device, 24/7. CAM has been training automotive salespeople, finance managers and car sales managers since 1992 with unparalleled success rates of their graduates. And by delivering training to car salespeople and managers via private-labeled SOAR LMS platforms, salespeople can train easily without taking time away from sales managers.

Could Training be Right For You or Your Dealership?

Car Sales Managers certainly have the ability to make over $100,000 annually, especially when they have the right skill sets and a good compensation plan. This is also true for used car sales managers when they know what to do.

However, it’s also important to have the proper knowledge, skill sets and credentials for you to reach your goals. You can learn how to become a top sales manager for your dealership by investing in a proven Sales Management program like the one offered at the College of Automotive Management. This program is designed for those looking to earn a six-figure income as a car sales manager. And since automotive employers prefer to hire CAM-Trained Graduates, this can open a world of opportunity for you!

Perhaps this kind of investment in yourself and your career can transform the way you approach your job. Or if you are already in a dealership management position, consider how this kind of training can improve sales and operations in your store. In fact, CAM offers special pricing to dealerships looking to train their team!

Visit our website to learn more!