Nissan used car manager thrives on his work

Used car managers are key components in making a car deal as evidenced by the amount of trade-ins nowadays in the automobile business.

And in Henderson Nissan Used Car Manager Darrek Kroll, the dealership has a valued veteran who knows how to take in used cars, appraise them, calculate their value into a future sale while also generating the sales of another car and making sure the customer is treated fairly at the same time.

"There is a real science in the used car business," said Bruce Boisvert, the Valley Automall dealership's floor manager who has been in the car business for 20 years, including 11 years as a wholesaler who bought and sold cars. "It's a thankless job with way too many hours. Kroll puts in countless hours to maintain a successful used car department. He knows when to hold them and when to fold them by wholesaling the vehicles, getting them sold at the dealership or sending them to the auction."

Boisvert, who is the dean of the staff at the dealership, said Kroll's job also includes reconditioning and making sure the cars are front-line ready.

"He's in charge of keeping costs down so that the sales people can make a profit," said Boisvert. "In addition, it's his job to make sure the cars are safe for future sales. This is one of those jobs that never really ends, and not just anyone can do his job. He is definitely a good man and he bends over backwards for everyone, ranging from the sales people to the customers and everyone in between. Any dealership would be happy to have him."

The 48-year-old is a native of Valencia, Calif., who has been in the car business for more than 25 years. He cannot imagine himself doing anything else.

"This is the only thing I know and I do it for the salesmen," said the colorful Kroll. "I guess you could say it's the love of the game. Market conditions change rapidly and you must be on your toes.

"In other words, values change drastically. While the Kelly Blue Book values used to change monthly, they now change weekly. It's a never-ending game, that's for sure. I rely on Manheim Market Reports along with using my own experience."

Kroll said many of his trades are Nissans that have been traded in for new Nissans.

"We have a very loyal customer base," said Kroll. "Once people drive a Nissan, they come back for newer Nissans in the future. Nissan holds its value very well, and our buyers are aware of that."

Also key to maintaining the used car department are Dee White, reconditioning manager; Andrew Patrick, detail manager; and Francisco Rodriguez, head lot porter.

"We couldn't get the job done without these people," said Kroll. "They are absolutely invaluable."

Henderson Nissan is part of the Super Store Automotive Group with five stores in Southern Nevada and more than 26 throughout the nation.

For further information regarding Henderson Nissan or any dealership within the Super Store Auto Group, call 558-5800 or visit www.hendersonnissan.net.