Is CarsDirect different from Cars.com?

Yes, completely different companies. CarsDirect focuses on quote requests and in-market buyers—people actively requesting prices from multiple dealers. Cars.com is a broader listing platform for browsing. Both are valuable for different reasons.

What makes CarsDirect leads different?

CarsDirect leads are quote requests—buyers actively asking multiple dealers for prices. They're in-market, comparison-shopping, and ready to buy. These aren't browsers; they're buyers with intent.

How do I win against other dealers getting the same lead?

Speed wins. CarsDirect sends leads to multiple dealers—first response often gets the sale. Dealer Essential's AI responds within seconds, 24/7. While competitors check their email, you're already in conversation.

How do CarsDirect leads come into my system?

CarsDirect leads flow directly into your Dealer Essential inbox with full buyer details. Respond from one place, track the conversation, and let AI handle initial response if you're busy.

Is CarsDirect worth the investment for independent dealers?

Yes—the leads are highly qualified. CarsDirect buyers have already decided to buy; they're just choosing which dealer. If you can respond fast and price competitively, these leads convert at high rates.

What's the typical close rate on CarsDirect leads?

Dealers using instant AI response report 30-40% close rates on CarsDirect leads—much higher than average internet leads. Speed and competitive pricing are the key factors.

Do I need a CarsDirect dealer account?

Yes, you'll need to be in CarsDirect's dealer network. Dealer Essential ensures your inventory is accurately listed and leads are captured and responded to instantly.

Is CarsDirect integration included in my subscription?

Yes. CarsDirect feed integration and lead capture is included in all Dealer Essential plans. CarsDirect may have their own dealer fees—those are separate.

5M+ monthly in-market shoppers on CarsDirect

Your cars
aren't on CarsDirect

CarsDirect buyers are ready to buy—they're comparing quotes, not browsing. Miss this channel and you miss ready buyers.

Floor plan cost: $0.00× every unlisted car

SYNCING

2024 Mercedes-Benz GL

$34,995

32 sites

+25 more

The problem

Sound familiar?

Monday, 9:30 AM

CarsDirect sends you a lead. The buyer requested quotes from 5 dealers. First response wins.

Wednesday, 1:00 PM

Your inventory isn't on CarsDirect. That's 5 million monthly shoppers who don't know you exist.

Friday, End of Month

Another quote request you missed because you weren't set up. That's money walking to competitors.

What if CarsDirect leads came straight to your inbox—with instant AI response?

The Solution

One upload. CarsDirect + 30 marketplaces.

Dealer Essential syncs to CarsDirect. Capture quote requests, respond instantly.

2019 Mercedes GL

$34,995

2024 Nissan Kicks

$22,900

+27 more

app.dealeressential.com/inventory

Synced to

32 marketplaces

+27

$34,995

New

$18,500

Featured

$22,900

$15,750

Sale

CarsDirect inventory feed

Your vehicles visible to CarsDirect's in-market audience.

Instant quote response

AI responds to CarsDirect leads in seconds. Be first, win more.

Lead tracking

Every CarsDirect lead tracked from inquiry to sale.

"CarsDirect leads are hot—they're actively requesting quotes. Our AI responds in 30 seconds and we close 40% of them."
Amanda Reyes
Owner, Summit Auto Sales • 30 cars/month
40% close rate