How to build the best car dealership website

Building a top-notch car dealership website is crucial for success and driving sales. According to the latest EY Mobility Consumer Index, almost 90% of car buyers prefer researching their options online, and 25% would even purchase their vehicle using online sources.

For many potential buyers, a website will be the first interaction they have with a dealership, making it a critical tool for expanding its reach. A well-designed site showcases your inventory in detail, guiding customers through their car-buying journey. By offering an intuitive and user-friendly experience, your website not only boosts customer satisfaction but also plays a key role in driving sales and growing your dealership’s success.

What is a car dealer website?

A car dealer website is an online platform designed to display the vehicles a dealership offers. It acts as a virtual showroom, allowing customers to browse through the dealer’s inventory from anywhere.

Each vehicle listing provides essential details such as model, year, and features. This information helps customers compare options and choose the right car for their needs. The website also includes pricing, financing options, and any special deals you might offer, making it easier for customers to understand their purchase options. Additionally, the site provides clear contact details and booking forms, allowing potential buyers to easily reach out to the dealership or schedule a test drive.

Essential pages for an car dealership website

A well-structured automotive website should include key pages that provide all the necessary information for potential buyers. Here’s a breakdown of the essential pages that should be part of any car dealer website.

Vehicle research and details

The vehicle research and details page is where your customers can explore your entire inventory. Each listing should include important details like make, model, year, and key features. This page helps customers research and compare different cars, allowing them to narrow down their options based on their preferences. It’s an essential tool for helping buyers make informed decisions.

A detailed page about every vehicle

Every vehicle in your catalog should have its own dedicated page. This detailed page includes comprehensive information about the specific car, such as high-resolution images, detailed descriptions, and in-depth specifications. It might also feature a history report, if applicable, and customer reviews. By providing this level of detail, you help potential buyers get a full understanding of the vehicle, making them more likely to move forward with a purchase.

Pricing, subscriptions, and special offers

This page highlights the prices of all the vehicles you have available. It’s also where you can showcase any special offers or subscription options that you provide. Whether it’s a seasonal discount or a special financing rate, this page is where customers can find the best deals. By clearly presenting this information, you help customers understand their purchasing options and encourage them to take the next step.

Ownership and financing options

On the ownership and financing options page, customers can find detailed information about how to finance their new car. This includes available loan options, payment plans, and other financing solutions. By offering clear, easy-to-understand details, you help customers feel confident in their ability to afford the vehicle they want.

Blogs, educational content, and reviews

The blogs, educational content, and reviews section is where you can share valuable information with your audience. This could include blog posts about the latest automotive trends, educational articles on car maintenance, or customer reviews of your dealership. Providing this content not only helps customers learn more about cars but also builds trust and positions your dealership as an authority in the industry.

Advanced search and inventory display

The advanced search and inventory display page enhances the user experience by allowing customers to quickly find the specific vehicles they’re interested in. With advanced search filters, they can sort through your inventory based on criteria like price, brand, or features. This functionality makes it easier for customers to locate the exact car they’re looking for, leading to a more efficient and satisfying browsing experience.

Loan and cost calculators

Including loan and cost calculators on your website is a great way to assist customers in estimating their monthly payments. These tools allow users to input various financing options and see what their potential costs would be. By providing this feature, you make the buying process smoother and more transparent, helping customers feel more prepared and informed.

Contact and booking information

The contact and booking information page is crucial for converting interested browsers into buyers. Here, customers can find all the ways to get in touch with your dealership, whether it’s through phone, email, or a contact form. This page should also include a booking form for scheduling test drives or appointments, making it easy for potential buyers to take the next step toward purchasing a vehicle.

Key features of car dealer websites

When building a car dealer website, incorporating key features is essential to creating a site that meets customer needs and drives sales. Here’s a closer look at what makes a car dealership website effective.

User-friendly online booking

Your website should feature an intuitive and user-friendly booking system. This functionality allows customers to easily schedule test drives or appointments without any hassle. By providing a smooth online booking experience, you make it convenient for potential buyers to engage with your dealership, increasing the likelihood that they’ll follow through with a visit.

Search functionality

A strong search functionality is a must for any car dealer website. Customers should be able to quickly and accurately find the vehicles they’re interested in. Your search feature should allow users to filter results based on criteria such as make, model, price, and more. The faster and more precise the search, the better the user experience, which keeps visitors on your site longer.

Responsive design

In today’s mobile-driven world, having a responsive design is non-negotiable. Your car dealer website must perform well across all devices — whether customers are browsing on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. A responsive design adapts to different screen sizes, ensuring that your website looks great and functions smoothly no matter how it’s accessed.

Large imagery

High-quality, large imagery is crucial in showcasing the cars you sell. Clear and attractive images help potential buyers visualize the vehicles and get a better sense of what they’re interested in. Large, well-placed photos can grab attention and make your website more appealing, encouraging customers to explore your listings further.

Comprehensive vehicle listings

Your vehicle listings should be as detailed and informative as possible. Each listing should include all relevant information about the car, such as specifications, features, pricing, and availability. Comprehensive vehicle listings give customers the information they need to make informed decisions, leading to higher conversion rates.

Effective lead capture forms

Lead capture forms are a vital part of your website. These forms help you collect customer information, which is essential for follow-up and sales. An effective lead capture form is easy to fill out and asks for just the right amount of information—enough to be useful, but not so much that it discourages users from completing it.

Seamless website customization

Your website should be easy to customize, allowing you to update content and features as needed. Seamless website customization ensures that you can keep your site fresh and relevant, whether you’re adding new inventory, updating offers, or changing the layout. This flexibility is key to maintaining an engaging and up-to-date online presence.

Integrations

A well-integrated website enhances efficiency and functionality. Your car dealer website should be able to integrate with other tools and platforms, such as CRM systems, payment gateways, and marketing tools. These integrations streamline operations, making it easier to manage your business and provide a better customer experience.

SEO features

Strong SEO features are essential for helping your website rank higher in search engine results. Good SEO practices, such as optimizing keywords and ensuring fast loading times, attract more traffic and increase your site’s visibility. The higher your site ranks, the more potential customers you’ll reach.

Affordability

Affordability is a key consideration when building a car dealer website. Your site should offer all the necessary features without breaking the bank. Finding a balance between cost and functionality ensures you get the best value for your investment while still providing a top-notch experience for your customers.

How to choose a website builder for a car dealership

If you’re planning to create a car dealership website without the help of a dedicated team of developers and designers, using a website builder is a smart choice. But with so many options available, each offering different features and purposes, choosing the right one can be challenging. You want to find a builder that saves you time and money, not one that ends up costing more of both.

Some builders are packed with advanced features but come with a steep learning curve. While these tools offer extensive customization, they often require months of effort to master, turning what should be a quick project into a drawn-out process.

A better approach might be to choose a user-friendly builder that offers the right balance of simplicity and functionality. No-code tools like SpreadSimple, for instance, allow you to create a clean, professional website in about half an hour. This ease of use doesn’t mean you’ll end up with a basic or limited website. On the contrary, SpreadSimple includes all the features you need, without overcomplicating the process.

SpreadSimple even offers a Car Dealership website template, pre-configured with everything you need for an automotive site. All that’s left is to add your brand’s design elements and vehicle listings. Thanks to SpreadSimple’s integration with Google Sheets, managing your listings is as easy as filling out a spreadsheet. Once entered, your data automatically appears on your site, making updates quick and hassle-free.

SpreadSimple offers many features tailored to business owners who don’t want to spend a fortune on website development, such as SEO tools and third-party integrations. Whether you’re a small used car dealer or a large dealership, SpreadSimple can help you create a website that attracts and converts visitors into customers.

How to Build a Responsive Car Dealer Website with SpreadSimple

Step 1: Sign up for SpreadSimple

You can use your Google account to sign up. Once you’re logged in, start using the Car Dealership template to create the website.

Step 2: Add your inventory

Go to the automatically created Google Shees document and fill in the rows with your inventory. Each row is a new product and each column is one quality of that product that will show on the website — for example, price, make, year, etc.

Step 3: Customize your website

Go to the website editor to customize your website and upload your brand’s design elements. In the Design tab, you can set up the look of the Home page, add your brand’s name and logo, upload the main image, and customize the Header and the Footer. And in the Content tab, you can set up the look of the Details pages and the products list.

Tips for building an effective car dealer website

Creating an effective car dealer website requires thoughtful planning and a focus on user experience. Here are some niche and practical tips to help you build a site that not only attracts visitors but also converts them into buyers.

Keep your website and listings updated

Regularly updating your website and vehicle listings is crucial. Ensure that every car listed is available and that all details, such as pricing and features, are accurate. Outdated listings can frustrate potential buyers and damage your dealership’s credibility. By keeping your website current, you demonstrate professionalism and reliability.

Post on schedule

Consistency is key to maintaining an engaging website. Set a regular posting schedule for blogs, news, and updates. Whether it’s a weekly blog post or monthly promotional offers, a consistent schedule keeps your content fresh and relevant. This helps improve your site’s SEO performance and keeps visitors coming back for more.

Create a relevant homepage

Your homepage is the first impression visitors get of your dealership. Make sure it’s relevant, with clear calls to action, featured listings, and any current promotions or offers. Avoid clutter, and focus on what’s most important to your customers, such as new arrivals, best deals, or seasonal specials. A well-organized homepage can guide visitors through your site and improve conversion rates.

Optimize for local SEO

Local SEO is vital for car dealerships, as most customers will be searching for dealerships within their area. Optimize your website for local search terms, such as “car dealerships near me” or “used cars in [your city].” Include your business address, phone number, and operating hours on every page. Register your dealership on Google My Business and other local directories to enhance your online presence.

Implement live chat support

Adding live chat support to your website can significantly enhance customer service. Many potential buyers have questions they want answered quickly, and live chat provides an immediate way to engage with them. It can also capture leads by collecting contact information before starting the chat. Live chat support can increase customer satisfaction and improve your chances of closing a sale.

Highlight customer testimonials and reviews

Positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers can build trust and credibility. Dedicate a section of your website to showcasing these testimonials, or feature them prominently on your homepage. Real customer experiences provide social proof and can persuade new visitors to choose your dealership over competitors.

Track and analyze user behavior

Understanding how visitors interact with your website is essential for continuous improvement. Use tools like Google Analytics to track user behavior, such as which pages they visit most, how long they stay, and where they drop off. This data can help you identify areas for improvement and optimize your site for better user engagement and conversions.

Key takeaways on building a car dealership website

Building a great car dealership website is an important step in reaching more customers and increasing sales. By incorporating high-quality images, ensuring mobile-friendliness, and providing detailed information, you can create a website that stands out in a competitive market.

Use these tips and the right tools, like SpreadSimple, to build a site that effectively showcases your inventory and drives business growth.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to build a car dealer website?

The cost of building a car dealer website can vary widely based on the features and complexity you need. A basic site might be relatively inexpensive, while a more advanced site with custom features and integrations could cost more. However, using a website builder like SpreadSimple offers an affordable option that allows you to create a professional and functional site without a hefty price tag. SpreadSimple provides the tools you need to build a high-quality website at a fraction of the cost of a custom-built site.

How long does it take to build a car dealer website?

The time it takes to build a car dealer website can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the scope of the project. If you’re using a builder like SpreadSimple, the process can be significantly faster. SpreadSimple’s user-friendly interface and pre-designed templates make it easy to set up your site quickly, allowing you to get your dealership online in no time.

What makes a dealer website design effective?

An effective dealer website design is one that is user-friendly, informative, and visually appealing. It should be easy for visitors to navigate, find the information they need, and take action, such as booking a test drive or contacting your dealership. High-quality images, detailed listings, and a clean, uncluttered layout contribute to an effective design. Additionally, features like responsive design and fast loading times ensure that your site provides a great user experience across all devices.

What are the best examples of car dealership website design for 2024?

The best car dealership websites for 2024 will likely feature responsive design, high-quality images, and detailed vehicle listings. These sites prioritize user experience by offering easy navigation, advanced search functionality, and clear calls to action. Look for examples that also integrate modern features like virtual tours, chat support, and online booking systems, as these can enhance the customer experience and set your site apart from the competition.

How important is mobile responsiveness for dealership websites?

Mobile responsiveness is extremely important for dealership websites. As more and more customers use mobile devices to browse the internet, having a website that works well on smartphones and tablets is essential. A mobile-responsive site ensures that your website looks great and functions smoothly on any device, providing a positive experience for all users. This is especially important for car dealerships, as customers may browse your inventory, book appointments, and contact you directly from their mobile devices.

What role does SEO play in car dealer websites?

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) plays a crucial role in the success of car dealer websites. Good SEO practices help your website rank higher on search engines like Google, making it easier for potential customers to find you. By optimizing your site’s content, using relevant keywords, and ensuring fast load times, you can attract more organic traffic and increase your chances of converting visitors into buyers. Effective SEO is key to standing out in a competitive market and driving more business to your dealership.

What is the best way to showcase car inventory online?

The best way to showcase car inventory online is by using high-quality images and providing detailed descriptions for each vehicle. Each listing should include clear, professional photos that highlight the vehicle’s exterior and interior features. Additionally, provide comprehensive details such as the make, model, year, mileage, and any special features or upgrades. Offering options like virtual tours or 360-degree views can also enhance the online shopping experience. By presenting your inventory in a visually appealing and informative way, you can attract more interested buyers.

How can car dealer websites improve conversion rates?

Car dealer websites can improve conversion rates by providing clear information, easy navigation, and effective lead-capture forms. Make sure your website is user-friendly, with a straightforward layout that guides visitors through the process of browsing inventory, learning about financing options, and booking test drives. Effective lead capture forms, placed strategically throughout the site, can help you collect valuable customer information for follow-up. Additionally, offering features like live chat support and personalized recommendations can further enhance the user experience and encourage conversions.

What are the common mistakes in dealer website design?

Common mistakes in dealer website design include cluttered layouts, poor navigation, and low-quality images. A cluttered website can overwhelm visitors and make it difficult for them to find what they’re looking for, leading to higher bounce rates. Poor navigation, such as complicated menus or broken links, frustrates users and can drive them away from your site. Low-quality images fail to showcase your vehicles effectively and can create a negative impression of your dealership. To avoid these mistakes, focus on creating a clean, organized layout with high-quality visuals and user-friendly navigation.