In today’s digital-first world, automotive customers expect service experiences as seamless, transparent, and convenient as their favorite apps. Xtime, an advanced automotive service experience platform from Cox Automotive, delivers exactly that. By integrating scheduling, customer engagement, digital inspections, and targeted marketing into one unified ecosystem, Xtime transforms dealership fixed operations into a modern, trust-building, profit-generating powerhouse.
An Ecosystem of Four Powerfully Integrated Modules
Xtime consists of four deeply connected modules, each addressing key stages of the customer journey and dealership workflow:
1. Schedule
Offer 24/7 online and mobile booking with real-time availability, tailored service menus, recall/warranty prompts, and direct rideshare integration with Lyft—building convenience and trust right from the start. Dealers enjoy staggering ROI, with scheduling generating up to 27× return on the cost of auto shop management software.
Features include:
- Capacity management to optimize technician allocation
- Customizable menus and multimedia attachments during booking
- Recall integration to streamline customer reassurance
2. Engage
Redesign the service lane experience with:
- Self check-in and tablet reception for personalized greetings and faster write-ups
- Real-time texting and online payments for swift, seamless interactions
- Intelligent diagnostics and service financing options to accelerate approvals
These features collectively nurture customer trust, advisor efficiency, and genuine upselling opportunities.
3. Inspect
Create trust through visibility with:
- Mobile-capable digital multipoint inspection software
- Enhanced Multi‑Media: capture and send photos/videos directly to customers
- Tools like Intra‑Dealer Chat and Service Tracker for efficiency and real-time updates
- Financing options via FlexPay for easier approvals
Data shows ASR approval in as little as 6 minutes when accompanied by video.
4. Invite
Boost demand and fill empty shop slots with smart, personalized outreach:
- Target customers with previously declined services
- Launch campaigns via text or email with links to schedule appointments
- Manage special-order part alerts to speed service completion
- Advanced segmentation to reach the right customers at the right time
This module supports strategic re-engagement and shop utilization.
Quantifiable Wins: Efficiency and Revenue Gains
Between August 2023 and July 2024, dealerships using Xtime achieved:
- Nearly 50% increase in revenue per repair order—indicating better upsell results and service precision
- A compelling 27× ROI from scheduling efficiencies alone
- Efficient ASR approvals—especially with video-enabled communication
These figures underscore Xtime’s power to pivot fixed ops toward performance rather than just cost center functionality.
Multimedia communication also delivers real results:
- Photos increase ASR close rates by 6%, videos by 26%
- 54% of consumers are willing to pay more when media is included
- RO dollars per order rise by 70% with multimedia transparency
This evidence shows how transparency accelerates trust and revenue.
Robust Integrations: Xtime at the Center of Your Ecosystem
Xtime seamlessly connects with leading dealership and third-party systems:
- Dealertrack DMS: parts on appointment, repair order syncing, and parts/labor writeback
- VinSolutions CRM: schedule first service during delivery, unify records
- Dealer.com: integrate web-based scheduling and targeted service ads
- Kelley Blue Book: leverage service-ready traffic via Featured Repair Center and instant offers
- vAuto: mine service drive data for high-demand inventory
- Plus integrations with Autosoft, CDK Global, CenPOS, and more
This interoperability ensures data continuity and operational harmony.
Voices from the Field: Success and Honest Feedback
Dealer Testimonials: Real Impact
- Chapman Honda Tucson: Courtesy ride waits reduced from over an hour to just 3–4 minutes through Lyft integration.
- Ferman Volvo: “I wouldn’t want to work at a dealership that doesn’t use Xtime.”—a compliment to its operational uplift.
- Vaden Automotive Group: Engage enhanced their write-up process with personalized and efficient customer interactions.
- Manly Honda: Consolidated systems effectively by centralizing operations around Xtime.
Industry Feedback: Honest Insights
Reddit users offer authentic perspectives, including both praise and critique:
“Interface itself isn’t bad… user friendly. But… many issues on the parts side… feels really buggy… every time you click ‘Add’, it scrolls to top.”
“Messaging doesn’t work. The RO tracking is a nightmare… quoting doesn’t include labor or taxes… API errors 50% of the time.”
Still, implementation and training often make the difference:
“We had a team come onsite… setup was rough… worked great by day 4 or 5. Training is essential.”
These candid experiences emphasize the importance of thoughtful onboarding and support.
Support and Resources to Drive Impact
Success with Xtime is supported by robust training and consulting:
- Client Resource Center: includes webinars, best-practice articles, and product updates
- Xtime University & Performance Managers: offer role-based training, on-site coaching, and campaign assistance
- Expert guidance ensures the technology doesn’t just deploy—it transforms.
Why Xtime Wins: Summary of Key Differentiators
| Feature | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Complete Integration | Schedule → Engage → Inspect → Invite—one platform, all workflows |
| Proven ROI | ~50% more $/RO, 27× schedule ROI, quick video-enabled ASR approvals |
| Multimedia Communication | Builds trust, fast approvals, higher spend per RO |
| Rich Integrations | Works seamlessly with DMS, CRM, advertising, inventory platforms |
| Real Dealer Success | Stories reflect operational gains and cultural uplift |
| Ongoing Support | Training, consulting, client resources ensure continuous improvement |
| Transparent Feedback Loop | Dealer forums provide actionable insights for evolution |
The Future of Fixed Ops is Now
In today’s automotive retail climate, customers expect the convenience and transparency they see in consumer apps. Xtime delivers that modern experience—and more. From online booking to multimedia approvals to smart re-engagement campaigns, the platform transforms fixed ops into a seamless, profitable, and trusted operation.
With real-world ROI data, dealership testimonials, integrated tech, and robust support, Xtime is more than software—it’s the future of automotive service.
