Brief overview of the automotive market
The global online car buying market size has reached over $300 billion in 2023, and it’s expected to grow in the coming years. While it’s positive news, it also means more competition when buying and selling cars online.
Autotrader as a leading platform
Autotrader is one of the most popular global online marketplaces for the purchase and sale of vehicles. If you’re on this online marketplace, you probably understand the struggle of competing against thousands of dealers and private car owners. In this case, getting more reviews for your business and offers can be valuable in standing apart from the competition and generating leads.
Learn more about Autotrader and how to get more reviews below.
How Autotrader Works
Before learning how to get more Autotrader dealership reviews, let’s first get a glimpse into the history of the company, its features and services, and the price for listing your vehicle on the platform.
History and Evolution of Autotrader
Autotrader was originally founded in 1997 and has become one of the biggest online auto marketplaces, with millions of vehicle listings from thousands of auto dealers and private owners. It also garnered a vast user base, with tens of millions of buyers using the platform. The platform is now under Cox Automotive.
Overview of Autotrader’s Features and Services
Autotrader does not only offer buy-and-sell services. The platform also provides instant cash offers and trade-ins. Read Autotrader instant offer reviews and Autotrader trade-in marketplace reviews to learn more about them.
When selling vehicles on Autotrader’s website, you can include as much information car shoppers find valuable, such as photos and specifications. You can also add an icon and link to an AutoCheck vehicle history report. Other features include but are not limited to finance options, car valuation tools, and expert reviews.
How Autotrader Simplifies the Car Buying and Selling Process
With Autotrader, you may find buying and selling a car a breeze. For sellers, you only need to create an account for free and purchase an ad package. Then, enter all essential information like photos and car specs to create an advertisement. The listing process comes with easy-to-follow instructions.
And once everything is ready, you can sit back and wait for buyer offers. Buying vehicles is easy as well, with many tools that will help you find the best auto for your budget, style, and needs.
How Much Does It Cost to Place an Ad on Autotrader?
Autotrader charges $49 per ad but advises that additional fees may apply. The advertisement runs until the vehicle sells out or until the platform determines the ad has become inactive. You can cancel the ad anytime.
4 Benefits of Using Autotrader
Wide Selection of Vehicles
Autotrader has the largest selection of vehicle inventory from auto dealers and private sellers. Whether you’re searching for a cheap, used vehicle or a brand-new one, you’ll have many options on the platform. It’s definitely more affordable than buying from auctions.
Advanced Search Filters and Customization Options
Even with millions of vehicles on the platform, searching for the one that fits your budget and preferences isn’t too overwhelming. Autotrader makes it easy to narrow down your options by offering many different filters and customization options, including but not limited to make and model, condition, and mileage.
Transparency and Reliability in Listings
Autotrader listings provide all the information you’ll need in making a purchase decision, including vehicle pricing, safety information, and special offers. The platform also lets you know the fair market range for a specific vehicle through Kelley Blue Book Price Advisor.
Access to Expert Reviews and Vehicle History Reports
Autotrader also provides in-depth reviews and ratings of vehicles of different makes and models. These expert reviews can be useful when you’re on the fence about buying a car. Some auto sellers include vehicle history reports by AutoCheck that buyers can check before making a purchase decision. If you’re selling vehicles, expert reviews and vehicle history reports can help build your customer’s confidence.
How to Get More Reviews on Autotrader
If you’re selling vehicles on Autotrader, getting positive reviews on the platform can help you build trust with potential customers, boost your online presence, and sell. After all, 30% of buyers purchase cars based on customer reviews. Below are some effective strategies for generating more Autotrader dealer reviews.
Provide Exceptional Customer Service
Getting outstanding customer service may be enough reason for your customers to leave a review. So ensure your buyers feel valued and appreciated in every step of their buying journey, from inquiries to after-sales support. Provide them with prompt assistance and treat them with respect. Use CRM to manage all your business interactions and relationships with existing and potential customers.
Make it Easy to Leave a Review
Some buyers may not just know where and how to leave reviews. So consider providing your customers a direct link to your Autotrader profile and brief but clear instructions on leaving reviews.
Offer Incentives
Encourage your customers to leave reviews by offering incentives, like a free gift. If you also run an auto repair shop, a service discount is a good offer. Customers are more likely to leave feedback when they know they will receive something in return.
Respond to All Reviews – Even the Screamers
Responding to reviews – regardless of whether it is good or bad – can help generate more reviews. When customers see your replies, they are reassured that you read and take on board whatever they have to say. More customers will likely leave feedback. In addition, prompt responses to reviews will allow you to build stronger relationships with customers.
Ask for Reviews at the Right Time
Request reviews at the handover, while your buyer is excited to collect their new vehicle. Waiting until the customer has had time to experience their new car may not give you maximum results.
Use Email and Social Media
Email and social media platforms are great channels for requesting reviews from customers. You can use a CRM to capture email and other contact information. Keep the review request brief and polite. Remember, you’re asking customers a favor.
Follow Up with Customers
You’ll likely have to reach out to your customers a few days after they have bought your vehicle. Use this opportunity to ask them whether they are happy with their purchase and if they can leave a review. Provide a link so they can easily leave feedback if they want to.
4 Tips for Selling on Autotrader
Ready to sell more vehicles on Autotrader? Here are a few tips to help you close more deals:
Create a compelling listing.
Take high-quality photos that show off your vehicle’s best features (clean the auto before photo-taking). When writing a description, highlight your vehicle’s best features and include only the most relevant facts and figures. Make the ad easy to read.
Pricing strategies and setting a fair price
Be transparent with pricing. Setting a low price may attract buyers, but it will hurt your reputation as a seller. Auto trader offers a valuation tool you can use to get an idea of how much your vehicle is worth. But consider the condition of your auto as well when setting a price.
Respond to inquiries and manage communication.
Potential buyers will likely contact you after listing your car on Autotrader. Respond to them promptly and answer their questions honestly. You can invest in phone systems and tools for managing communication. If multiple buyers are interested, arrange a time for them to view the car.
Close the deal safely and securely.
Scams can be a concern, especially for first-time sellers. To avoid scammers, take a few precautions before you hand over the vehicle. If you’re concerned about safety, Autotrader offers a Private Seller Exchange (PSX) service that minimizes the risks of getting into fraudulent transactions. Read Autotrader private seller exchange reviews to learn whether it’s right for you. If you found a legitimate buyer, gather the necessary paperwork and determine the mode of payment.
Get More Reviews and Close More Deals with Podium’s Help
Reviews are a valuable tool in attracting new customers, even outside AutoTrade. With Podium, you can get as many as you want with ease. Podium Reviews also lets you connect and manage all reviews in one place. Use it alongside other tools for growing your automotive business.
Learn more about Podium tools for the automotive industry or contact a Podium professional today.
