F&I Sentinel finalized a partnership with defi SOLUTIONS on Tuesday in a move designed to increase efficiency and accuracy through automation, while improving F&I product compliance for auto finance companies, dealers and product providers.

Through the partnership, defi XLOS and defi ORIGINATIONS clients can tap into F&I Sentinel’s CITADEL platform benefits, including:

— Access to its repository of more than 112,000 compliant F&I products, ensuring only compliant products are funded

— A streamlined funding process for better dealer relations

— Incorporation of CITADEL data into the finance company’s contract acceptance business rules for fewer funding errors

— Access to the entire F&I product form for every product funded in the deal jacket

F&I Sentinel and defi SOLUTIONS pointed out that a patchwork of state and federal regulations means auto finance companies are held accountable for non-compliance during any phase of an F&I product’s lifecycle.

The companies said the ever-expanding array of F&I products offered during the car-buying process, from vehicle service contracts to GAP waivers to vehicle value protection agreements, can increase finance companies’ compliance risk for aftermarket products financed through the installment contract.

F&I Sentinel and defi SOLUTIONS insisted automation is critical to minimize human error and mitigate compliance risks, which is why they’re now working together.

“Today’s ever-changing regulatory landscape requires dynamic compliance, more than just the typical standard controls and processes, consultants, or technology automation,” F&I Sentinel CEO Stephen McDaniel said in a news release.

“The partnership with defi reinforces our commitment to the industry to deliver proactive, tech-enabled managed compliance solutions that bring transparency, efficiency, and clarity throughout the entire F&I product lifecycle,” McDaniel continued.

Tom Allanson, CEO of defi SOLUTIONS, added, “We understand the challenges and complexities lenders face and are committed to providing them the best solutions and services that meet their needs and expectations.

“Through this partnership with F&I Sentinel, our clients can reduce their compliance risks, costs, and burdens while enhancing their overall performance, reputation, and customer satisfaction through the technology and services we provide,” Allanson went on to say.