Auditing a car dealer’s presence on third-party automotive websites is crucial to ensure accurate information is presented to potential customers. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to gather and verify essential details such as listings of new, used, and certified cars, dealer address, operating hours, website link, and contact information across various platforms.

Table of Contents

  1. Preparation
  2. Creating an Audit Spreadsheet
  3. Identifying Third-Party Providers
  4. Collecting Information from Each Provider
  5. Documenting and Verifying Data
  6. Analyzing and Reporting Findings
  7. Tips for Effective Auditing
  8. Conclusion

1. Preparation

Materials Needed:

  • Computer with Internet Access: Ensure a stable internet connection.
  • Spreadsheet Software: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or similar.
  • Dealer Information: Official name, address, phone number, and website of the car dealer.

2. Creating an Audit Spreadsheet

Set up a spreadsheet to organize your findings. Include the following columns:

  • Provider
  • Link
  • New Cars
  • Used Cars
  • Certified
  • Address
  • Hours
  • Website Link
  • Dealer Phone

3. Identifying Third-Party Providers

List all the third-party automotive websites you plan to audit. Common providers include:

  • AutoTrader
  • CarGurus
  • Cars.com
  • Edmunds
  • TrueCar
  • Kelley Blue Book

4. Collecting Information from Each Provider

For each provider, follow these steps:

a. Visit the Provider’s Website

Navigate to the homepage of the provider’s website.

b. Search for the Dealer

  • Use the Search Function: Enter the dealer’s name, city, or zip code.
  • Filter Results: If necessary, filter by dealer or inventory type.

c. Access the Dealer’s Profile or Listings Page

Click on the dealer’s name to access their dedicated page.

d. Gather Required Information

Provider

  • Record the Name: E.g., AutoTrader, CarGurus.

Link

  • Copy the URL: Ensure it directs to the dealer’s main page on the provider’s site.

New Cars

  • Check Listings: Look for a tab or section for new cars.
  • Note the Number: Record how many new cars are listed.

Used Cars

  • Check Listings: Find the used cars section.
  • Note the Number: Record the total used car listings.

Certified

  • Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): Identify any certified listings.
  • Note the Number: Record how many certified vehicles are listed.

Address

  • Verify Accuracy: Compare the listed address with the dealer’s official address.
  • Record Discrepancies: Note any differences.

Hours

  • Check Operating Hours: Look for business hours for each day of the week.
  • Record Them: Ensure they match the dealer’s actual hours.

Website Link

  • Find the Link: Look for a link to the dealer’s official website.
  • Test It: Click to ensure it redirects correctly.
  • Record the URL: Note the exact link provided.

Dealer Phone

  • Locate the Number: Find the contact number listed.
  • Verify Accuracy: Ensure it matches the dealer’s official phone number.

e. Repeat for Each Provider

Perform these steps for all third-party sites on your list.

5. Documenting and Verifying Data

  • Enter Data into Spreadsheet: Fill in each column with the collected information.
  • Highlight Issues: Use color coding or comments to note discrepancies or missing information.
  • Take Screenshots (Optional): Capture any incorrect information for records.

6. Analyzing and Reporting Findings

  • Review Collected Data: Look for inconsistencies across different platforms.
  • Identify Areas for Correction: Note any incorrect or outdated information.
  • Prepare a Summary Report: Outline your findings and suggest necessary updates.

7. Tips for Effective Auditing

  • Use Incognito Mode: To avoid personalized results.
  • Check Mobile and Desktop Versions: Some sites display differently on mobile devices.
  • Verify During Business Hours: Some sites update listings in real-time.
  • Regular Audits: Schedule periodic checks to maintain accuracy.

8. Conclusion

Conducting a thorough audit of a car dealer’s listings on third-party sites ensures that potential customers receive accurate and consistent information. This not only enhances the dealer’s credibility but also improves customer experience and can lead to increased sales.

Remember: Accurate online information is crucial in today’s digital marketplace. Regular audits help maintain the integrity of the dealer’s online presence.