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Cars.com vs Autotrader.com and Other Online Purchasing Options

Posted: 2023-04-17

Are you looking to buy a new or used car but need help figuring out where to start? With so many online car-buying marketplaces available, choosing the best one for you can take time. But don't worry because we will help you make the best car-buying decision for your needs here at Stephen Wade Auto Center. Whether you're hoping to buy a car in person on Auto Mall Drive or online from the comfort of your home, Stephen Wade Auto Center is here to help.

We are located on Auto Mall Drive in St. George and have been helping people buy cars for years. Our team of experienced professionals can assist you every step of the way, and we also have resources to help you navigate the ins and outs of buying a car. We would love to see you at our dealership, but we also want to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. In this post, we'll compare two of the biggest online car marketplaces in the United States: autotrader.com and cars.com, and help you decide which is right for you.

Online Auto Marketplace History

Autotrader.com launched in 1997, and Cars.com launched in 1998. Both platforms allow you to search for new, used, and certified pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs from dealerships and private sellers, both locally to your area and across the country. They boast advanced search filters, reviews, and comparison tools to help you find your next car.

However, some differences between the two websites could make one more appealing, depending on your needs. Cars.com and Autotrader.com offer an easy-to-use search results page that makes searching for a vehicle simple. However, one distinguishing feature is that Cars.com provides access to the vehicle history report from the search results page, while Autotrader does not. This can be a valuable tool for buyers who want to know more about a vehicle's history before they commit to anything specific.

Cars.com also has a sleeker look that may feel less overwhelming to some users, while Autotrader offers a more standard view that can seem cluttered. The search tools on both sites are relatively similar, with advanced filters for make, model, year, price, mileage, and location. Autotrader.com gives additional search options, including color, style, and fuel type. Cars.com stands out, however, as more user-friendly than Autotrader.com.

According to their website, Autotrader.com lists millions of vehicles for sale. While Cars.com's inventory is not as extensive as Autotrader's, they still have a broad range of new and used cars. Both websites provide access to local dealerships, making it easy for buyers to find and purchase a vehicle in their area. Autotrader has a tool that allows buyers to look for cars by zip code and a feature that highlights local dealerships with many positive ratings and reviews. Cars.com has a similar device, with the option of searching for cars by distance from a specific location. Again, both websites offer matching options, with no clear advantage for either one.

The Difference in Mobile Applications

Another aspect to consider when deciding between Autotrader.com and Cars.com is their mobile app options. Cars.com has a highly-rated app with a helpful feature that allows you to save your search results and receive alerts when new cars that meet your criteria are added to the inventory. Autotrader.com can save and compare cars and access the same search filters as their desktop site.

And finally, it is essential to consider financing features. Many car marketplaces offer financing options through partnerships with lending institutions. Cars.com and Autotrader.com work with lending institutions to get competitive loan rates. However, it is essential to remember that financing rates and terms can vary depending on your credit score and other factors. Here at Stephen Wade Auto Center, we can help you navigate the nuances of auto-loan financing. We also work with many financial institutions that enable us to get you the best rate for your situation. Remember, before agreeing to any financing, make sure you understand the interest rates, monthly payments, and any fees associated with the loan.

The Advantage of Stephen Wade's Online Listings

One potential advantage of using Stephen Wade Auto Center's online listings instead of a large online marketplace is the availability of personal support from a knowledgeable sales team. Buying a car can be daunting, and having access to experts who can answer your questions and provide guidance can make a significant difference.

At Stephen Wade Auto Center, we prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to make the car-buying experience as stress-free as possible. Our experienced professionals can help you through the entire process, from finding the perfect car to arranging to finance and finalizing the purchase.

Here at Stephen Wade Auto Center, we give you a personalized experience whenever you visit one of our seven locations along Auto Mall Drive. We can also help you buy a car online. Our sales team can find the right vehicle for your needs, arrange financing, and provide guidance throughout the process.

Stephen Wade is Here to Help

Stephen Wade Auto Center's reputation for quality vehicles and service is undeniable. We've been in business for over 30 years! Our long history of providing high-quality customer service will give you the confidence to know that even if your question is: "Which online marketplace is the best to buy a car?" We will be here to help.

When buying a car online, every option has pros and cons, and it's essential to do your research and consider your individual needs and preferences before making a decision. While online marketplaces can offer a wide selection of vehicles and competitive pricing, they may not provide the level of personalized support you are looking for. That's ok. We get it. Ultimately, the key to a successful online car-buying experience is doing homework and taking time. If you have any questions, always feel free to call us. Because whether you are buying online or in person—you've got it made at Stephen Wade.

You've Got It Made At Stephen Wade

Why Buy From Stephen Wade