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Tuesday, October 27, 2026 · 4-minute read
Good morning. A system can keep running while a data investigation remains open. Today, we’re separating what Cox has confirmed about VinSolutions from what remains unknown, then looking at a used-car market moving in different directions and an unchanged EV price sheet. Let’s get into it.
AT THE DESK
VinSolutions: contained activity, open questions
Cox Automotive says it detected suspicious activity limited to VinSolutions, quickly contained it and brought in outside cyber experts to investigate the nature and scope of any data involved. In a statement published October 26, the company said the activity did not affect its other solutions or platforms (Auto Remarketing).
Two details matter for the dealership: Cox reported no encrypting malware and no disruption to customers’ ability to use VinSolutions. It said customers could continue using its solutions normally, while investigators worked to determine what data might have been involved (Auto Remarketing).
The company said its investigation so far suggested a limited subset of VinSolutions dealers was affected and that it would notify affected parties directly. That statement does not establish a final affected-dealer count or resolve the data-exposure question; it is the company’s account of an investigation still underway (Auto Remarketing).
For a store using the platform, our suggestion is straightforward: put one person in charge of monitoring official vendor communications, confirm the right IT and leadership contacts are reachable, and preserve any incident notices received. If a notice identifies your store, bring the specific facts to your security team and counsel rather than drawing conclusions from online claims.
The useful distinction is between continued service and a completed investigation. Keep customer-facing language tied to confirmed information, with one internal owner responsible for updating the team.
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THE BIG PICTURE
Used inventory is not moving as one market
CARFAX’s October 26 report puts average used-SUV asking prices above $25,000 for the first time in its index, with vans and minivans above $24,000. Meanwhile, the combined hybrid-and-EV category’s average asking price fell more than $230 in its October update (CARFAX).
There is a useful regional detail for Florida dealers: CARFAX places Florida in its six-state South region, where used-car asking prices rose more than $370 while the combined hybrid-and-EV category fell more than $340. Those are regional figures, not Florida-only results (CARFAX).
These are average prices of listings on CARFAX, not completed retail transactions or auction values. The report’s hybrid-and-EV category also combines two different powertrain markets rather than isolating battery-electric vehicles (CARFAX).
The inventory implication is to look below the headline. Our suggestion: review acquisition targets and aging by segment, then compare like-for-like vehicles on trim, mileage and condition before changing an appraisal or asking price. A family SUV and an aging electric vehicle do not need the same pricing conversation.
ON THE LOT
Kia keeps the EV6 price sheet steady
Kia’s posted 2027 EV6 pricing keeps MSRP unchanged across seven trims, with the Light Standard Range rear-wheel-drive model starting at $37,900 before $1,545 destination. That makes the starting MSRP plus destination $39,445, before taxes, title, licensing, options and other applicable charges (Kia America).
For stores comparing new and used EV inventory, the unchanged new-car price is a useful reference point, not a guarantee about transaction prices or resale values. Compare the actual trim and equipment, and keep destination visible when discussing the starting price. Kia says actual retail prices are set by retailers and may vary (Kia America).
SERVICE LANE
Tire standards enter negotiations
NHTSA announced negotiated rulemaking on October 26 covering possible changes to tire testing, airless tires, sidewall markings and truck/SUV weight-limit guidelines. It plans a committee of up to 18 stakeholders; this is the beginning of a standards-development process, not a new dealer tire-replacement mandate (NHTSA).
For now, keep service recommendations grounded in the vehicle’s existing specifications and the tire’s condition. Do not describe possible future standards as requirements customers already must meet.
DATES THAT MATTER
Florida’s November 5 dealer advisory meeting
FLHSMV’s Automobile Dealers Industry Advisory Board meets virtually on November 5 at 9 a.m. Eastern Standard Time to discuss dealer-industry matters. The notice provides a Microsoft Teams connection and an agenda contact; participation is optional, not a dealer filing requirement (Florida Administrative Register).
Request the agenda before deciding who should attend. This is a meeting notice, not an announcement of an adopted rule change (official notice).