Autotrader is widely regarded as a reliable platform for both buyers and sellers, offering a seamless experience across its website and mobile app. With millions of listings from dealers and private owners, it provides extensive options for users to find the vehicle they need.
The platform’s user-friendly interface and high app ratings reflect its popularity. While it charges fees for advertising, it offers valuable exposure to a large audience of potential buyers. So, is Autotrader legit? Yes, it remains a trusted and well-established name in the automotive marketplace.
Key Highlights
- Autotrader is a legitimate platform because of its wide selection, easy platform, and trusted reputation.
- Potential downsides of Autotrader include high listing fees, inaccurate listings, and no physical inventory.
- Selling on Autotrader involves listing your car with details and photos, reviewing offers, and finalizing the sale.
- Buying on Autotrader means searching, reviewing, financing, contacting the seller, and closing the deal.
- Autotrader helps with buying and selling cars with pricing tools, while CarGurus, Cars.com, and Carfax differ in fees and features.
How is Autotrader a legit platform?
Autotrader is known as a legit platform as it earns its reputation through years of industry presence, partnerships with verified dealerships, and secure listing processes. It uses advanced fraud detection tools and customer support to help protect users from scams.
Buyers can access vehicle history reports, compare prices, and even calculate payments, all within the platform. For sellers, Autotrader verifies listings and provides tools to highlight their vehicles effectively. These features help ensure a safe and trustworthy environment for both parties.
Customer Reviews on Authentic Sites
You can know what customers say about Autotrader at different authentic sites that add customer reviews about different online platforms.
1. Customer Affairs
Autotrader Customer Review on Customer Affairs is generally positive because of its large selection and ease of use, highlighting smooth transactions and helpful staff. However, some reviews mention frustration with limited support and problems with third-party listings.
2. Trustpilot
Autotrader Customer Review on TrustPilot is a mix of positive and negative feedback. Many users commend the platform for its variety and reliable listings, while others express dissatisfaction with customer service and the occurrence of fraudulent ads.
Major Reasons to Choose Autotrader:
After knowing what customers say, find out some key features of Autotrader that make it one of the best websites to buy a car online.
- Detailed Listings: Access comprehensive vehicle details, including photos, specs, and seller contact info.
- Finance Options: Get pre-approved financing and use a loan calculator through the Autotrader app.
- Car Valuation Tool: Determine fair market value with Autotrader’s and Kelley Blue Book’s valuation tools.
- Expert Reviews: Read in-depth reviews and ratings for different makes and models.
- Trade-in Value Tool: Estimate your vehicle’s trade-in value when upgrading to a new car.
- Test Drive Scheduling: Book test drives directly with dealerships through the platform.
- Vehicle History Reports: View CARFAX vehicle history reports for insights on ownership, maintenance, and repairs.
- Watch List Feature: Save and track your favorite listings for easy comparison.
- Dealer Ratings: Read dealership reviews and ratings to make informed decisions.
- Multilingual Support: Use the platform in English, Spanish, or French for a more comfortable experience.
Some Drawbacks of Autotrader
Below are some reasons why someone might not choose Autotrader
- High Pricing: Listing fees (around $49) may lead to higher vehicle prices for buyers.
- Accuracy of Listings: Some users report outdated or inaccurate listings.
- No Physical Inventory: Autotrader does not own or hold vehicles or manage ownership transfers.
How does Autotrader Work?
By providing tools for retailers, manufacturers, and consumers, Autotrader aims to improve the car market. In addition to improving the overall value chain of cars, their platform allows consumers to buy cars and sellers to advertise their cars more easily.
How do you sell cars on Autotrader?
As one of the top car-selling websites, Autotrader connects you with millions of serious buyers nationwide. If you’re looking to sell your car on Autotrader, know the key steps you can follow to make the process smooth, fast, and successful.
Step 1: List Your Car
Fill out a form with your car’s details, including a bill of sale, odometer reading, title, service records, photos, and contact information. Set a competitive asking price based on age, condition, mileage, and market trends.
Step 2: Wait for Offers
Once listed, buyers can view your car and contact you directly through Autotrader. Review and choose the best offer.
Step 3: Complete the Sale
Finalize the sale by signing a contract and transferring ownership. Provide necessary documents like the title, registration, and bill of sale.
The Buying Process on Autotrader
If you’re interested in buying a car on Autotrader, here are the steps you can follow:
Step 1: Car Search
The Autotrader app or website has a search feature that allows you to narrow down your search results by make, model, year, price range, and other criteria.
Step 2: View listings
You can view the detailed information provided for each car, including pictures, specs, and seller contact information. You can also save your favorite listings to a “watch list”.
Step 3: Analyze financing
A dealer usually offers financing, but you should compare quotes from several sources. You should also check with your local bank and credit union.
Step 4: Contact the Seller
Use the “Get Pre-Approved” feature to get pre-approved for financing from participating dealerships if you’re interested in a particular car.
Step 5: Negotiate and Complete the Purchase
A sales contract is required if the seller accepts your offer. Once you’ve arranged financing and insurance, you’ll get the keys to your new car! Once all the paperwork is complete, you’ll get your keys!
Autotrader vs Alternatives
Many other websites and companies offer similar services, and the market for online automotive classifieds is constantly evolving. Some of the main competitors to Autotrader include:
Autotrader vs Cargurus
The Cargurus website charges $4.95 to list your car for 30 days. However, buyers do not have to pay anything. Autotrader, on the other hand, charges $25-$90 to list your vehicle. Autotrader has advertising options for private-party sellers because its mission is to help both buyers and sellers. Autotrader relies on Kelly Book Value while Cargurus utilizes Instant Market Vehicle (IMV).
Both Cargurus and Autotrader provide a platform where users can buy and sell new and used cars. They don’t keep physical inventories of vehicles.
Autotrader vs Cars.com
Unlike Autotrader, cars.com does not charge users to list their vehicles on the site. Whether you choose to advertise or buy, you can select from a variety of options. It is possible to get instant offers for old cars on Autotrader, unlike on Cars.com. Cars.com doesn’t offer this service. Therefore, Autotrader can be the right option if you wish to sell an old vehicle
Buyers can search both websites based on their preferences to find vehicles that meet their needs.
Autotrader vs Carfax.com
There is one major difference between Autotrader and Carfax: Autotrader is a legitimate platform that allows individuals and dealerships to list and sell cars, while Carfax provides vehicle history reports.
Another difference is the type of cars that are available on each platform. Autotrader includes a wide range of cars for sale, including brand-new and used vehicles, while Carfax only provides vehicle history reports for cars that have already been sold.
Conclusion
Autotrader stands out as a trusted and established platform for buying and selling both new and used vehicles. With millions of listings, advanced search tools, and features like financing options and vehicle history reports, it offers convenience and variety to users. While it has some drawbacks, its widespread use and positive app ratings show strong user trust. For both private sellers and dealerships, this Autotrader review confirms it remains a valuable tool in the auto marketplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Autotrader legit?
Yes, Autotrader is a legitimate platform for buying and selling vehicles, operating since 1997 and owned by Cox Automotive.
How do I ship a car with Autotrader?
Autotrader doesn’t directly handle shipping, but you can use AutoStar Transport Express for reliable car shipping services.
Should I buy a car on Autotrader?
Autotrader is a good place to buy a car, offering a wide range of vehicles, detailed listings, financing options, and expert reviews. However, always research the car and seller to ensure a fair deal.
How long does it take to sell a car on Autotrader?
Selling time can vary. Some cars sell quickly, while others may take longer, depending on price, condition, and market demand.
Are Autotrader reviews discussed here real?
Yes, the reviews and feedback mentioned are based on real user experiences and industry evaluations.
