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How many service managers used a dedicated PDI technician vs having line technicians complete the PDI. The second part of this question is if you have line technicians completing the PDI do you pay them less than there normal rate.

I spread the PDI's around to my line techs. I have 9 techs so your results may vary..... I do pay less for this type of internal work. Most techs are above this rate so guess what, they don't like it very well. However, PDI's make great space fillers so it works out in the end. Waiting on an ok....PDI. Parts runner on the way with an SOP...PDI. I am sure you get the picture. Like most things, it is all in the presentation.
Kevin

I always suggest that when line techs are doing the prep that they are paid less than the full amount. Part of the prep payment is the appearance portion. Since most techs aren't detailing the vehicle for the lot, I've never felt they were entitled to the entire time. For most makes a 60/40 spilt is more than equitable.

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I have one person that does all PDI's, Cadillac and GMC. He gets his normal flat rate. I inherited this pay plan 4 years ago and have tried to fix this without losing all the techs, its a slow process.
Anyway, I think he does a much better PDI than those that work it in around other jobs. He pays attention to the details, most line techs don't, they want it in, out and stubbed. We have very few problems with new vehicles returning for service after delivery.

Another handy trick to completing PDI's is to pre-load the shop in the evening (provided your carry-over rate isn't high). Have a PDI be the first vehicle they lay hands on in the morning. If you get them in the routine of completing one and they know it will be there in the stall first thing, you can usually get a few knocked out every morning.

For you guys that are using line techs to do the pdi who is responsible for the checking in of vehicles ect.

We have one dedicated porter who removes all plastic from inside and outside of vehicle prior and inspects every vehicle for damage. This person also checks to make sure that all the optional equipment is on the or in the vehicle. If they find something missing or damaged, they report it directly to me prior to the driver leaving or signing off on the inspection sheet. For vehicles that are dropped off after hours, each vehicle is STI (subject to inspection). If there is damage or something missing, it is reported immediately.