When researching online automotive marketplaces, many buyers and sellers ask a key question: is Cars.com legit? Cars.com has been in operation since 1998 and enjoys widespread use as a platform connecting buyers with new and used vehicle listings across the United States. It is one of the largest automotive search platforms in the United States, connecting 27 million in-market shoppers each month with millions of new and used car listings from dealerships and private sellers nationwide.
However, as with any large marketplace, user experiences vary from highly positive to frustrated. On review aggregators, opinions are mixed, but Cars.com’s longstanding reputation and consumer safety ratings indicate it is broadly a legitimate car search site, not a scam. In this comprehensive Cars.com review, we evaluate everything from how the platform works to pricing, pros and cons, and whether it’s right for your car buying or selling needs.
Key Takeaways
- Cars.com is a platform that offers extensive inventory, robust search tools, and multiple ways to compare vehicles and pricing.
- While many users appreciate the breadth of listings and tools, feedback on customer experience is mixed, and some buyers or sellers report challenges with support or listings.
- Cars.com does not directly sell cars or act as a dealer; rather, it connects buyers with dealers and private sellers through its marketplace.
- If your priority is smooth logistics after purchase or transport, Sherpa Auto Transport can assist with reliable nationwide vehicle shipping.
In This Guide:
- How Does Cars.com Work?
- Cars.com Review
- Pros of Cars.com
- Cons of Cars.com
- Review of Cars.com Buying Process
- Review of Cars.com Selling Process
- How to Finance Through Cars.com
- Bottomline
- Cars.com FAQs
How Does Cars.com Work?
Cars.com is an online car marketplace that allows users to search for, compare, and connect with vehicle listings from dealers and private sellers. Buyers can filter searches by make, model, price range, mileage, and location, while listing details often include photos, specs, and price history.
Sellers, including dealerships and individuals can post vehicles for sale. Dealers generally pay for better listing visibility, while private sellers may have basic free options, depending on current platform policies. In short, Cars.com serves as a connector, not a direct vendor. It creates a space for buyers and sellers to find and interact with each other. Many users find it useful for preliminary research and comparison shopping.
Cars.com Review
We evaluated Cars.com and other leading used car sites based on reputation, platform, pricing, inventory, and customer satisfaction. We give Cars.com an overall rating of 8.8 out of 10. Based on our research, Cars.com scores high across various categories. Here’s a breakdown of our ratings and the insights that led to these scores:
Overall Rating: 8.8/10
Cars.com is a highly regarded platform that offers extensive listings, detailed reviews, and robust tools for buyers and sellers. Its strong reputation and user-friendly interface make it a top choice for online car transactions. The site is designed to cater to both first-time buyers and seasoned car enthusiasts, ensuring a smooth experience for all users.
From expert reviews to tools like price calculators and side-by-side comparisons, Cars.com provides valuable insights that simplify the decision-making process. Its comprehensive inventory and strong dealer connections further strengthen its position as a leader in the online automotive marketplace.
Reputation: 9/10
Established in 1998, Cars.com has built a strong reputation for providing reliable car listings and reviews. Over the years, it has become a trusted resource for buyers and sellers alike, thanks to its consistent delivery of accurate information and user-focused tools.
Its A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau further underscores its trustworthiness.This recognition, along with decades of positive feedback, has solidified Cars.com as a dependable choice for those navigating the online car market.
Platform: 9/10
The platform is designed to be intuitive and functional for both buyers and sellers. Detailed search filters help users pinpoint vehicles that match their criteria, while educational reviews and comparison tools aid decision-making. It is packed with helpful features such as in-depth car reviews, advanced search filters, and price comparison tools.
It ensures users can easily find the right vehicle to match their needs and budget. Cars.com is open to everyone, allowing free browsing of its extensive inventory and offering private sellers the option to list vehicles at no cost. These accessible features make it a go-to destination for convenient and hassle-free car buying and selling.
Pricing: 8/10
Cars.com offers free basic listings with optional premium features. The platform is transparent about its costs, making it affordable for users. For those looking to boost visibility and attract more potential buyers, the platform also offers optional premium features. It includes highlighted listings and promotional tools, for an additional fee.
One of the standout aspects of Cars.com is its transparency about pricing—there are no hidden fees or unexpected charges, which helps users make informed decisions. This cost-effective approach makes Cars.com an accessible and appealing choice for both private sellers and dealerships.
Inventory: 9/10
Cars.com boasts an extensive inventory that is sourced from a variety of dealers, private sellers, and certified pre-owned programs. This makes sure buyers have access to a diverse selection of vehicles. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly used car, a luxury model, or a brand-new vehicle, the platform offers options to suit every preference and price range.
The site’s robust filtering tools make it easy to narrow down choices based on criteria such as make, model, price, mileage, location, and features. This wide range of options ensures that buyers can find the perfect vehicle to meet their needs, all in one convenient place.
Customer Satisfaction: 9/10
Users appreciate the comprehensive support and user-friendly tools available for both buyers and sellers. Customer reviews are generally positive. Buyers value features like detailed car reviews, price comparison tools, and financing calculators, which help them make informed decisions with ease.
Sellers, on the other hand, appreciate the straightforward listing process and tools that help their vehicles reach a wide audience. The platform’s customer service team is known for being responsive and helpful, addressing inquiries and resolving issues quickly. Overall, customer reviews are generally positive, with many users highlighting the platform’s efficiency, reliability, and smooth experience.
Pros of Cars.com
Cars.com offers numerous benefits for both buyers and sellers:
- Extensive inventory from various dealers
- Comprehensive car reviews and dealer ratings
- User-friendly interface and easy navigation
- Price comparison tools to help buyers make informed decisions
Cons of Cars.com
Despite its many advantages, there are some drawbacks to using Cars.com:
- Some listings may lack detailed information.
- The large volume of listings can be overwhelming for users.
- High listing volume may feel overwhelming for first-time buyers.
Cars.com does not guarantee vehicle condition, this depends on the seller.
Review of Cars.com Buying Process
The buying process on Cars.com is straightforward and informative. The platform connects buyers with dealers, providing detailed reviews and price comparisons to aid in decision-making.
Here’s what impressed our team:
- Connects buyers directly with dealers
- Informative car reviews and dealer ratings
- Easy-to-use price comparison tools
Review of Cars.com Selling Process
Selling on Cars.com is made easy with its user-friendly listing process. Sellers can list their vehicles for free and opt for premium features to increase visibility. Cars.com features free basic listings with the option to purchase premium features. We were also impressed by the user-friendly listing process.
Here’s what impressed our team:
- Sellers can list their vehicles at no cost, making it accessible for anyone looking to sell their car quickly and easily.
- Cars.com offers paid upgrades like featured listings, enhanced ads, and promotional tools to increase visibility and reach.
- Cars.com connects sellers with a large network of buyers, including private individuals and dealerships, increasing the chances of a quick and successful sale.
How to Finance Through Cars.com
Financing a car through Cars.com is made simple with their integrated tools and partnerships with financial institutions.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Search for Your Vehicle:
Use Cars.com to search for the vehicle you are interested in. Filter the results based on your preferences and budget.
Check Financing Options:
Once you have selected a vehicle, check the financing options available. Cars.com provides tools to estimate monthly payments based on different loan terms and interest rates.
Apply for Financing:
Cars.com partners with various financial institutions to offer financing options. You can apply directly through the platform by providing necessary information such as income, employment status, and credit score.
Compare Offers:
After applying, you will receive offers from multiple lenders. Compare these offers based on interest rates, loan terms, and monthly payments.
Finalize Your Financing:
Choose the financing offer that best suits your needs and finalize the paperwork with the lender. Once approved, you can proceed with purchasing your vehicle.
By offering a straightforward process and partnering with reputable financial institutions, Cars.com makes it easy for buyers to finance their vehicle purchases.
Bottomline
So, is Cars.com legit? In short, yes, Cars.com is a legitimate and longstanding automotive marketplace that helps buyers and sellers connect. While user opinions vary, the platform’s age, traffic, and historical consumer ratings show it’s widely recognized in the industry.
If you are buying a vehicle through Cars.com, remember that post-purchase logistics like transportation are separate. That’s where Sherpa Auto Transport can help you get your new car delivered safely, reliably, and affordably whether you are moving it across state lines or shipping after purchase.
Cars.com FAQs
Is Cars.com a trusted site?
Yes, Cars.com is generally considered a trusted online automotive marketplace that connects buyers and sellers. Independent safety assessments and its long operational history support its legitimacy. However, as with any marketplace, exercise standard caution when communicating with individual sellers.
Is Cars.com a licensed dealer?
No, Cars.com itself is not a licensed car dealer. It operates as a marketplace that lists vehicles from licensed dealers and private sellers. This means Cars.com facilitates connections but does not sell cars directly or hold dealer licensing.
