Quick Overview
- 1#1: CDK Global - Comprehensive dealership management system handling sales, service, parts, and accounting for automotive retailers.
- 2#2: Reynolds & Reynolds - Integrated ERA dealership management software suite for inventory, CRM, F&I, and back-office operations.
- 3#3: Tekion Automotive Retail Cloud - Cloud-native platform unifying sales, service, parts, and finance processes for modern car dealerships.
- 4#4: Dealertrack DMS - End-to-end dealer management with credit applications, compliance, and inventory tools for efficient operations.
- 5#5: Autosoft DMS - Flexible DMS solution for independent dealers managing CRM, inventory, sales, and service workflows.
- 6#6: DealerSocket - All-in-one platform combining DMS, CRM, websites, and digital retailing for dealership growth.
- 7#7: VinSolutions - Powerful CRM integrated with DMS features for lead management and customer relationship tracking.
- 8#8: DealerCenter - Cloud-based DMS tailored for small to mid-sized dealers with inventory, sales, and compliance tools.
- 9#9: Frazer Software - Specialized DMS for buy-here-pay-here dealers handling financing, collections, and inventory.
- 10#10: ProMax - CRM and DMS hybrid focused on lead conversion, desking, and menu selling for dealerships.
We ranked these tools based on functionality depth, user experience, reliability, and value, ensuring a curated list that balances versatility, ease of use, and performance for dealers of all sizes.
Comparison Table
For car dealers seeking the right management software, this comparison table breaks down top tools like CDK Global, Reynolds & Reynolds, and Tekion Automotive Retail Cloud, along with Dealertrack DMS, Autosoft DMS, and more. It outlines key features, strengths, and considerations to help you identify the best fit for your business needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CDK Global Comprehensive dealership management system handling sales, service, parts, and accounting for automotive retailers. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Reynolds & Reynolds Integrated ERA dealership management software suite for inventory, CRM, F&I, and back-office operations. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Tekion Automotive Retail Cloud Cloud-native platform unifying sales, service, parts, and finance processes for modern car dealerships. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 4 | Dealertrack DMS End-to-end dealer management with credit applications, compliance, and inventory tools for efficient operations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 5 | Autosoft DMS Flexible DMS solution for independent dealers managing CRM, inventory, sales, and service workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | DealerSocket All-in-one platform combining DMS, CRM, websites, and digital retailing for dealership growth. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | VinSolutions Powerful CRM integrated with DMS features for lead management and customer relationship tracking. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | DealerCenter Cloud-based DMS tailored for small to mid-sized dealers with inventory, sales, and compliance tools. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 9 | Frazer Software Specialized DMS for buy-here-pay-here dealers handling financing, collections, and inventory. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 10 | ProMax CRM and DMS hybrid focused on lead conversion, desking, and menu selling for dealerships. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
Comprehensive dealership management system handling sales, service, parts, and accounting for automotive retailers.
Integrated ERA dealership management software suite for inventory, CRM, F&I, and back-office operations.
Cloud-native platform unifying sales, service, parts, and finance processes for modern car dealerships.
End-to-end dealer management with credit applications, compliance, and inventory tools for efficient operations.
Flexible DMS solution for independent dealers managing CRM, inventory, sales, and service workflows.
All-in-one platform combining DMS, CRM, websites, and digital retailing for dealership growth.
Powerful CRM integrated with DMS features for lead management and customer relationship tracking.
Cloud-based DMS tailored for small to mid-sized dealers with inventory, sales, and compliance tools.
Specialized DMS for buy-here-pay-here dealers handling financing, collections, and inventory.
CRM and DMS hybrid focused on lead conversion, desking, and menu selling for dealerships.
CDK Global
enterpriseComprehensive dealership management system handling sales, service, parts, and accounting for automotive retailers.
CDK Drive's seamless front-to-back office integration, enabling real-time data flow across sales, service, and inventory for unparalleled operational efficiency.
CDK Global provides a comprehensive Dealer Management System (DMS) tailored for automotive dealerships, integrating sales, service, parts inventory, finance, CRM, and digital retailing into a unified platform. It streamlines dealership operations from lead management to post-sale service, leveraging advanced analytics and automation to boost efficiency and profitability. As an industry leader, CDK Drive supports scalability across single stores to large enterprise groups with robust compliance and security features.
Pros
- Unmatched integration across all dealership functions including F&I, CRM, and OEM interfaces
- Scalable for enterprise-level operations with powerful analytics and reporting tools
- Dedicated support and training resources from a proven industry leader
Cons
- High upfront implementation costs and ongoing subscription fees
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set requiring significant training
- Customization can be limited without additional vendor involvement
Best For
Large multi-location dealership groups needing a fully integrated, enterprise-grade DMS for end-to-end operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $400-$800+ per user/month with substantial implementation and setup fees.
Reynolds & Reynolds
enterpriseIntegrated ERA dealership management software suite for inventory, CRM, F&I, and back-office operations.
ERA's fully integrated Digital Deal platform, enabling seamless online-to-offline sales processes with automated compliance and e-contracting.
Reynolds & Reynolds offers the ERA dealer management system (DMS), a comprehensive platform designed specifically for automotive dealerships to manage sales, service, parts, finance, and accounting operations. It provides end-to-end workflow automation, including CRM, inventory management, and digital retailing tools, with deep integrations to OEM systems and third-party vendors. With over 70 years of experience, ERA is built for scalability across single stores or large dealer groups, emphasizing data security and compliance.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one suite covering every dealership department
- Robust OEM integrations and reliable uptime from a trusted industry leader
- Advanced analytics and reporting for data-driven decisions
Cons
- High upfront implementation costs and long setup times
- User interface can feel outdated compared to modern SaaS competitors
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive staff training
Best For
Large multi-location dealership groups needing an enterprise-grade, highly integrated DMS with proven scalability.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on dealership size; typically $50,000+ upfront implementation plus $10,000-$50,000+ annual per store in licensing and support fees.
Tekion Automotive Retail Cloud
enterpriseCloud-native platform unifying sales, service, parts, and finance processes for modern car dealerships.
Its single-stack, cloud-native platform that delivers instant data flow and eliminates legacy system integrations for unparalleled speed and efficiency
Tekion Automotive Retail Cloud is a comprehensive, cloud-native Dealer Management System (DMS) designed specifically for automotive dealerships, integrating CRM, sales, service, parts, finance, inventory, and F&I into a single unified platform. It enables real-time data synchronization, process automation, and digital retailing tools to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences. With mobile-first accessibility and advanced analytics powered by AI, it helps dealerships operate more efficiently in a competitive market.
Pros
- Seamless all-in-one integration eliminates silos between departments like sales, service, and finance
- Lightning-fast performance and mobile accessibility due to proprietary cloud-native architecture
- Advanced digital retailing and AI-driven insights for personalized customer experiences
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity for smaller dealerships
- Steep learning curve during initial onboarding and migration
- Pricing lacks transparency and is customized, often expensive for independents
Best For
Large multi-rooftop dealership groups seeking a scalable, modern DMS to unify operations and drive digital transformation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically subscription-based starting at $500+ per user/month or per roofline, depending on modules and dealership size; contact for quote.
Dealertrack DMS
enterpriseEnd-to-end dealer management with credit applications, compliance, and inventory tools for efficient operations.
Seamless lender portal integration for real-time financing approvals and menu-based F&I presentations
Dealertrack DMS is a comprehensive dealer management system tailored for automotive dealerships, providing end-to-end functionality for inventory control, sales, service, parts management, and finance & insurance (F&I) processes. It excels in digital retailing, CRM integration, and compliance tools, connecting seamlessly with lenders, credit bureaus, and OEMs to streamline operations. The platform offers robust reporting, analytics, and a marketplace for third-party apps, making it a staple for mid-to-large dealerships.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with lenders, credit providers, and 300+ third-party apps
- Powerful F&I menu-selling and compliance tools for regulatory adherence
- Advanced analytics and reporting for inventory and sales performance
Cons
- High implementation and subscription costs
- Steep learning curve with a complex, sometimes outdated interface
- Customer support can be slow and inconsistent
Best For
Mid-to-large dealership groups requiring deep financial integrations and compliance features.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $600-$1,500+ per month per location depending on modules and dealership size.
Autosoft DMS
enterpriseFlexible DMS solution for independent dealers managing CRM, inventory, sales, and service workflows.
Digital Deal Engine for seamless online vehicle sales and financing from initial customer inquiry to delivery
Autosoft DMS is a cloud-based dealer management system tailored for automotive dealerships, providing end-to-end functionality for sales, service, parts, inventory, and CRM. It integrates digital retailing tools, desking capabilities, and accounting features to streamline dealership operations and improve customer engagement. The platform supports multi-location dealerships with robust reporting and mobile access for on-the-go management.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one solution covering sales, service, and inventory
- Strong digital retailing and CRM tools for lead management
- Scalable for multi-store operations with good third-party integrations
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to newer competitors
- Steep learning curve for full utilization
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
Best For
Mid-sized to large dealership groups seeking a robust, integrated DMS with digital sales capabilities.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $100-$200 per user/month plus setup fees and add-ons for advanced modules.
DealerSocket
enterpriseAll-in-one platform combining DMS, CRM, websites, and digital retailing for dealership growth.
DealerSocket Engage CRM, which provides AI-driven lead management and personalized customer communication across all channels
DealerSocket is a comprehensive dealer management system (DMS) designed for automotive dealerships, offering CRM, inventory management, digital retailing, desking, and service scheduling tools. It streamlines operations from lead generation to sales closing and post-sale service, with strong integrations to OEMs and third-party apps. The platform emphasizes data-driven insights through robust reporting and analytics to boost dealership performance.
Pros
- Powerful CRM with advanced lead nurturing and follow-up automation
- Integrated digital retailing and website builder for online sales
- Comprehensive reporting and analytics for performance tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller dealerships
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Mid-to-large dealership groups looking for an all-in-one platform to manage sales, service, and digital marketing.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on dealership size and modules; typically starts at $150+ per user/month with annual contracts.
VinSolutions
enterprisePowerful CRM integrated with DMS features for lead management and customer relationship tracking.
Equity mining and predictive lead scoring to identify high-potential upsell opportunities from existing customer data
VinSolutions is a robust CRM and dealership management platform tailored for automotive retailers, offering end-to-end tools for lead management, sales tracking, customer retention, and inventory control. It integrates deeply with major DMS systems like CDK and Reynolds, enabling seamless data flow across sales, service, and F&I departments. The platform emphasizes digital retailing, marketing automation, and performance analytics to drive dealership efficiency and revenue growth.
Pros
- Powerful CRM with advanced lead nurturing and equity mining
- Seamless integrations with major DMS and third-party tools
- Comprehensive mobile app for on-the-go dealership management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High pricing that may not suit small dealerships
- Occasional performance issues with large datasets
Best For
Mid-sized to large dealership groups seeking integrated CRM and DMS capabilities for sales and customer lifecycle management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $150-$300 per user/month, often bundled dealership-wide with implementation fees.
DealerCenter
specializedCloud-based DMS tailored for small to mid-sized dealers with inventory, sales, and compliance tools.
Integrated digital deal submission and menu selling that enables fully online deal processing from website to close.
DealerCenter is a cloud-based dealership management system (DMS) tailored for independent auto, powersports, RV, and marine dealers, providing an all-in-one platform for inventory management, CRM, desking, digital retailing, and compliance tools. It features seamless integration with dealer websites, menu selling presentations, and third-party services like credit reports and forms providers. The software emphasizes quick setup and mobile accessibility to streamline daily operations for smaller dealerships.
Pros
- Affordable pricing with strong value for small dealers
- Intuitive interface and quick onboarding
- Robust CRM and digital retailing tools
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics
- Occasional glitches in integrations
- Less suitable for very large enterprises
Best For
Small to mid-sized independent dealerships needing an affordable, user-friendly DMS with digital sales capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at around $199/month per 'roof' for core features, with add-ons and custom quotes scaling to $500+/month based on modules and volume.
Frazer Software
specializedSpecialized DMS for buy-here-pay-here dealers handling financing, collections, and inventory.
Integrated collections management with automated payment posting and delinquency tracking optimized for BHPH lenders
Frazer Software is a dealer management system (DMS) tailored for independent used car dealers, buy-here-pay-here (BHPH) lots, and powersports dealerships. It offers comprehensive tools for inventory management, deal desking, financing, accounting, collections, and compliance reporting. The platform emphasizes in-house financing workflows, making it suitable for smaller operations handling subprime loans.
Pros
- Specialized BHPH and collections modules with strong compliance tools
- Affordable for small dealers with solid inventory and desking features
- Responsive customer support and reliable uptime
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud DMS competitors
- Limited CRM and marketing automation capabilities
- Less scalable for multi-location or high-volume dealerships
Best For
Small to mid-sized independent used car dealers and BHPH operations focused on in-house financing and collections.
Pricing
Starts at $295/month for basic plan (single location), scaling to $595+/month for advanced features and multi-store support; no long-term contracts.
ProMax
specializedCRM and DMS hybrid focused on lead conversion, desking, and menu selling for dealerships.
Advanced menu selling and deal structuring with built-in compliance checks
ProMax is a cloud-based Dealer Management System (DMS) tailored for automotive dealerships, particularly independent used car dealers. It provides comprehensive tools for inventory management, CRM, sales desking, digital retailing, accounting, and website integration to streamline daily operations. The platform emphasizes menu selling, compliance, and mobile accessibility for on-the-go management.
Pros
- Robust desking and menu presentation tools for faster deal closing
- Seamless cloud access with mobile app support
- Strong digital retailing and website integration capabilities
Cons
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
- Limited advanced customization options compared to enterprise DMS
- Pricing scales quickly with add-on modules
Best For
Small to mid-sized independent used car dealerships needing an affordable, all-in-one cloud DMS with strong sales tools.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $1,200-$2,500/month based on dealership size, modules, and users; no upfront costs.
Conclusion
The reviewed dealership management software excel at streamlining operations, with CDK Global leading as the top choice, offering comprehensive coverage of sales, service, parts, and accounting. Reynolds & Reynolds and Tekion Automotive Retail Cloud stand out as strong alternatives—Reynolds with its integrated suite and Tekion with a cloud-native, modern approach—each tailored to different business needs. Together, they showcase the key tools that drive efficiency and success in the automotive retail sector.
Ready to transform your dealership? Explore CDK Global's robust platform to unlock seamless operations and growth.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison