The Hidden Costs of Security Guards at Auto Dealerships

When auto dealerships think about security, many still default to hiring guards. It feels like a safe, traditional move — someone walking the lot, “keeping an eye on things.” But what if that approach is quietly costing your dealership more than you realize?

In today’s competitive environment, every dollar — and every incident — matters. Let’s break down the hidden costs of security guards and why forward-thinking dealerships are turning to smarter, more efficient solutions.

1. High Labor Costs (With Hidden Fees)

Hiring security guards isn’t cheap. Nationwide, hourly rates for unarmed guards can range from $18–$30/hour, often adding up to $12,000–$20,000/month for overnight or 24/7 coverage.

But the hidden costs go deeper:

  • Overtime and shift differentials
  • Uniforms, training, and insurance
  • Turnover and onboarding (guards rarely stay long)
  • Management time for scheduling, performance issues, and documentation

By contrast, mobile surveillance trailers run at a fraction of the cost — typically under $3.50/hour — with zero downtime, no HR headaches, and consistent 24/7 performance.

2. ‍Human Error and Limited Coverage

Guards can only be in one place at a time. They miss things. They fall asleep. They get distracted.

We’ve seen it time and again:

  • Vehicles vandalized on the far end of the lot
  • Catalytic converters stolen in minutes during a shift change
  • Guards failing to record or report incidents properly

Compare that to AI-powered trailers:

  • Multiple high-resolution cameras
  • 360-degree coverage
  • Real-time alerts
  • Police dispatch during non-working hours

No coffee breaks. No blind spots.

3. Liability Exposure

Think hiring a guard reduces your liability? Think again.

In many cases, dealership owners still bear legal responsibility when:

  • A guard fails to act during an incident
  • There’s no video evidence to support your insurance claim
  • A guard is involved in an altercation with a customer or intruder

Automated surveillance with onboard storage provides clear video evidence, helping to:

  • Win insurance claims faster
  • Protect your business from false accusations
  • Deter threats before they happen

4. Guard Deterrence Isn't What It Used to Be

Criminals are bolder, more coordinated, and they know the limitations of guards. Many have learned:

“If you walk confidently, the guard won’t stop you.”

Smart criminals are no longer deterred by a parked car or a badge. But flashing strobes, audible alerts, and AI detection? That makes them think twice.

5. Opportunity Cost

What could you do with the $100,000+ a year many dealerships spend on guards?

  • Add more marketing budget
  • Invest in inventory or lighting
  • Improve customer experience

Security should protect your bottom line, not eat into it.

The Smarter, More Cost-Effective Option

Autom Security Trailers offer:

  • 24/7 solar-powered surveillance
  • AI detection for people, vehicles, and suspicious activity
  • Instant police dispatch
  • All for less than $3.50/hour

We’ve helped dealerships cut guard costs by 70%+ while increasing coverage, catching criminals, and staying insurance compliant.

🔒 Ready to Secure Your Lot Smarter?

Click below to schedule a free security audit or request a 21-day Test Drive at your dealership.

Experience the Ultimate Site Security

Discover how our solar-powered security camera trailers can protect your construction site with a free demo. Our advanced trailers come equipped with:

Solar Power with Battery Backup: Ensures continuous operation, even in low sunlight.
Two PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) Cameras and One Fisheye Camera: Capture every angle with high-definition clarity.
Talkdown Speaker: Deter intruders with real-time audio warnings.
24/7 Monitoring and Police Dispatch: Our system automatically dispatches police when unauthorized individuals or vehicles are detected on your site.

Secure your site today with a free 14-day demo. Fill out the form below to get started.

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