Quick Overview
- 1#1: VinSolutions - Leading CRM platform for automotive dealerships providing lead management, sales automation, digital retailing, and customer retention tools.
- 2#2: DealerSocket - All-in-one digital dealership platform with CRM, websites, and marketing automation for streamlined sales and service.
- 3#3: CDK Elead - Advanced CRM solution with behavioral retargeting, lead nurturing, and seamless DMS integration for auto dealers.
- 4#4: CallRevu - AI-driven CRM that captures, responds to, and nurtures leads from calls, texts, chats, and online sources in real-time.
- 5#5: Reynolds ERA - Integrated dealership management system with robust CRM for sales, service, parts, and customer relationship management.
- 6#6: Tekion - Cloud-native automotive retail platform featuring unified CRM, desking, and F&I tools for modern dealerships.
- 7#7: PCG Automation - Digital CRM and marketing automation suite for auto dealers focused on lead conversion and follow-up.
- 8#8: ActivEngage - Persistent chat and engagement CRM that turns website visitors into showroom appointments instantly.
- 9#9: DealerRefresh - Mobile-first CRM platform with automation, texting, and video follow-up for dealership sales teams.
- 10#10: AutoSweet - Cloud-based CRM for automotive dealers offering automated follow-ups, inventory integration, and performance reporting.
We evaluated tools based on feature relevance (including lead management, DMS integration, and omnichannel engagement), usability (intuitive design and training support), and value (pricing flexibility and measurable ROI), ensuring a curated list of top-performing options.
Comparison Table
Dealer CRM software is vital for optimizing customer engagement and operational workflows in the automotive industry. This comparison table explores key options like VinSolutions, DealerSocket, CDK Elead, CallRevu, Reynolds ERA, and more, examining features, integration flexibility, user experience, and pricing to guide readers toward the right choice.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | VinSolutions Leading CRM platform for automotive dealerships providing lead management, sales automation, digital retailing, and customer retention tools. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | DealerSocket All-in-one digital dealership platform with CRM, websites, and marketing automation for streamlined sales and service. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | CDK Elead Advanced CRM solution with behavioral retargeting, lead nurturing, and seamless DMS integration for auto dealers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | CallRevu AI-driven CRM that captures, responds to, and nurtures leads from calls, texts, chats, and online sources in real-time. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Reynolds ERA Integrated dealership management system with robust CRM for sales, service, parts, and customer relationship management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Tekion Cloud-native automotive retail platform featuring unified CRM, desking, and F&I tools for modern dealerships. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | PCG Automation Digital CRM and marketing automation suite for auto dealers focused on lead conversion and follow-up. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | ActivEngage Persistent chat and engagement CRM that turns website visitors into showroom appointments instantly. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | DealerRefresh Mobile-first CRM platform with automation, texting, and video follow-up for dealership sales teams. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | AutoSweet Cloud-based CRM for automotive dealers offering automated follow-ups, inventory integration, and performance reporting. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 |
Leading CRM platform for automotive dealerships providing lead management, sales automation, digital retailing, and customer retention tools.
All-in-one digital dealership platform with CRM, websites, and marketing automation for streamlined sales and service.
Advanced CRM solution with behavioral retargeting, lead nurturing, and seamless DMS integration for auto dealers.
AI-driven CRM that captures, responds to, and nurtures leads from calls, texts, chats, and online sources in real-time.
Integrated dealership management system with robust CRM for sales, service, parts, and customer relationship management.
Cloud-native automotive retail platform featuring unified CRM, desking, and F&I tools for modern dealerships.
Digital CRM and marketing automation suite for auto dealers focused on lead conversion and follow-up.
Persistent chat and engagement CRM that turns website visitors into showroom appointments instantly.
Mobile-first CRM platform with automation, texting, and video follow-up for dealership sales teams.
Cloud-based CRM for automotive dealers offering automated follow-ups, inventory integration, and performance reporting.
VinSolutions
specializedLeading CRM platform for automotive dealerships providing lead management, sales automation, digital retailing, and customer retention tools.
Intelligent Lead Management with AI-powered routing and predictive follow-up reminders tailored to dealer workflows
VinSolutions is a comprehensive CRM platform tailored for automotive dealerships, enabling efficient lead management, customer relationship tracking, and sales pipeline optimization. It integrates deeply with dealer management systems (DMS), digital retailing tools, and marketing automation to streamline operations from initial contact to post-sale service. The software provides robust analytics, mobile access, and AI-driven insights to help dealers increase conversions and customer loyalty.
Pros
- Seamless DMS integrations and automotive-specific workflows
- Powerful lead nurturing with automated follow-ups and intelligent routing
- Comprehensive reporting and real-time dashboards for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher cost compared to general CRM alternatives
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Mid-to-large automotive dealerships needing an industry-specific CRM with deep integrations and advanced lead management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $500-$1,500+ per month per dealership based on size and modules, with no public per-user plans.
DealerSocket
specializedAll-in-one digital dealership platform with CRM, websites, and marketing automation for streamlined sales and service.
Digital Deal Desk for enabling complete online vehicle purchasing and financing processes directly within the CRM.
DealerSocket is an all-in-one CRM platform tailored for automotive dealerships, providing tools for lead management, sales desking, service scheduling, marketing automation, and digital retailing. It integrates deeply with popular DMS systems like Reynolds & Reynolds and CDK Global, enabling seamless data flow across dealership operations. The software helps dealerships nurture customer relationships, boost conversion rates, and streamline workflows from initial contact to post-sale service.
Pros
- Comprehensive feature set including digital retailing and desking
- Strong integrations with major DMS and third-party tools
- Robust reporting and analytics for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller dealerships
- Occasional reports of slower customer support response times
Best For
Mid-to-large automotive dealerships seeking a fully integrated CRM with advanced digital sales capabilities.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on dealership size, users, and modules; typically starts at $200-$500 per user/month with enterprise plans available.
CDK Elead
enterpriseAdvanced CRM solution with behavioral retargeting, lead nurturing, and seamless DMS integration for auto dealers.
Elead Digital Retailing, which enables fully online vehicle purchasing and financing workflows directly within the CRM.
CDK Elead is a comprehensive CRM platform designed specifically for automotive dealerships, enabling efficient lead management, customer nurturing, and sales process automation from initial contact through post-sale service. It integrates deeply with CDK Global's Dealer Management System (DMS) and digital retailing tools, providing a unified view of customer data across departments. The solution emphasizes data-driven insights with advanced analytics and reporting to optimize dealership performance and customer retention.
Pros
- Seamless integration with CDK DMS and other dealership tools
- Powerful lead routing, nurturing, and conversion automation
- Robust analytics and customizable reporting dashboards
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface for new users
- High cost, especially for smaller dealerships
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response times
Best For
Mid-to-large automotive dealerships seeking a fully integrated CRM with strong DMS connectivity and digital retailing capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $1,000-$5,000+ per month per dealership location based on size, users, and modules; quotes required.
CallRevu
specializedAI-driven CRM that captures, responds to, and nurtures leads from calls, texts, chats, and online sources in real-time.
AI-powered BuyScore that instantly ranks incoming calls by purchase likelihood
CallRevu is a specialized call intelligence platform for automotive dealerships, providing comprehensive call recording, AI-driven transcription, and analytics to monitor and optimize phone interactions with customers. It scores leads based on buy probability, offers real-time coaching alerts, and integrates with DMS and CRM systems to enhance sales and service performance. While not a full-featured CRM, it excels in transforming inbound calls into actionable insights for higher conversion rates.
Pros
- Advanced AI call scoring and lead prioritization
- Real-time alerts and coaching tools for sales teams
- Seamless integration with dealership management systems
Cons
- Limited scope beyond phone call management (no native email/SMS CRM)
- Pricing can be steep for smaller dealerships
- Initial setup and training may require time
Best For
Mid-to-large automotive dealerships heavily reliant on phone leads seeking to boost sales through call analytics.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on dealership size and call volume; typically starts at $500-$1,500 per month per location.
Reynolds ERA
enterpriseIntegrated dealership management system with robust CRM for sales, service, parts, and customer relationship management.
ERA-Connect for real-time, omnichannel customer communication integrated directly into dealership workflows
Reynolds ERA is a comprehensive dealership management system (DMS) from Reynolds and Reynolds, featuring integrated CRM tools tailored for automotive dealers. It manages the full customer lifecycle, from lead capture and sales tracking to service reminders and loyalty programs, all within a unified platform. The software excels in data centralization, enabling personalized communications and operational efficiency across sales, service, and parts departments.
Pros
- Seamless integration with DMS for end-to-end dealership operations
- Robust automotive-specific CRM tools like service history tracking and targeted marketing
- Advanced reporting and analytics for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High implementation and ongoing costs
- Less intuitive mobile experience compared to modern cloud-native CRMs
Best For
Mid-to-large automotive dealerships seeking a fully integrated DMS-CRM solution for streamlined operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically $100-$300 per user/month plus setup fees, often bundled with full DMS suite.
Tekion
enterpriseCloud-native automotive retail platform featuring unified CRM, desking, and F&I tools for modern dealerships.
The fully integrated ARC platform that unifies CRM, DMS, and digital retailing for end-to-end visibility and one-click deal processing.
Tekion's Automotive Retail Cloud (ARC) is a comprehensive, cloud-native platform tailored for car dealerships, integrating CRM, DMS, sales, service, parts, F&I, and digital retailing functionalities into a single ecosystem. It enables seamless omnichannel customer experiences, real-time data synchronization across departments, and AI-powered insights to drive sales and service efficiency. Designed to replace fragmented legacy systems, it supports dealerships in managing leads, inventory, appointments, and customer relationships from one unified interface.
Pros
- Unified all-in-one platform reduces silos and vendor dependencies
- Mobile-first design with real-time data access for dealers and customers
- Strong OEM integrations and AI-driven personalization for better lead conversion
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy onboarding process
- Premium pricing lacks transparency and may not suit small dealers
- Learning curve for users transitioning from legacy systems
Best For
Mid-to-large dealership groups or multi-store operators seeking a scalable, integrated platform to modernize operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing per location or user; typically starts at $5,000+ per month for mid-sized dealers—contact sales for quotes.
PCG Automation
specializedDigital CRM and marketing automation suite for auto dealers focused on lead conversion and follow-up.
Native, bidirectional Dealertrack DMS integration for effortless data flow between CRM and dealership management systems
PCG Automation is a specialized CRM platform tailored for powersports, RV, marine, and outdoor equipment dealerships, offering lead management, customer tracking, sales automation, and marketing tools. It integrates seamlessly with Dealertrack DMS for streamlined operations across sales, service, parts, and inventory. The software emphasizes dealer-specific workflows to enhance customer engagement and drive revenue growth in niche markets.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Dealertrack DMS for real-time data syncing
- Industry-specific features optimized for powersports and marine dealers
- Robust marketing automation and follow-up tools
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-dealer users
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise alternatives
- Pricing can be higher for smaller dealerships without full DMS needs
Best For
Mid-sized powersports, RV, and marine dealerships seeking a CRM deeply integrated with Dealertrack DMS for operational efficiency.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing per dealership/location, typically starting at $500-$1,500/month depending on modules and size; requires quote.
ActivEngage
specializedPersistent chat and engagement CRM that turns website visitors into showroom appointments instantly.
AI Quick Response, which auto-generates instant, context-aware replies to leads via text or chat, achieving open rates over 90%.
ActivEngage is a dealer-focused CRM platform tailored for automotive dealerships, emphasizing multi-channel customer engagement through SMS, email, video messaging, and AI-driven tools. It excels in lead management, nurturing, and conversion by automating responses and personalizing interactions to boost reply rates and sales. The software integrates with DMS systems and websites to streamline digital retailing from initial contact to deal closure.
Pros
- Robust multi-channel communication including SMS, email, and video for high engagement rates
- AI-powered Quick Response for 24/7 automated, personalized lead handling
- Strong integrations with DMS like Reynolds, CDK, and dealership websites
Cons
- Pricing is on the higher end, especially for smaller dealerships
- Advanced features have a moderate learning curve
- Reporting and analytics are solid but less customizable than top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized automotive dealerships prioritizing conversational marketing and rapid lead response to improve conversion rates.
Pricing
Custom pricing based on dealership size and vehicles; typically $10-25 per vehicle/month or $500-$2,500 per store/month.
DealerRefresh
specializedMobile-first CRM platform with automation, texting, and video follow-up for dealership sales teams.
Seamless integration of CRM data with customizable dealer websites for real-time inventory and lead syncing
DealerRefresh is an all-in-one CRM and digital marketing platform tailored for automotive dealerships, offering tools for lead management, customer follow-ups, inventory display, and website optimization. It integrates CRM functionalities with dealer websites, SEO, and advertising to drive more traffic and conversions. The software emphasizes automation in sales processes and performance analytics to help dealers refresh their online presence and improve customer relationships.
Pros
- Specialized features for automotive dealerships including inventory syndication and desking tools
- Integrated website builder and digital marketing suite for seamless online-to-offline funnel
- Strong automation for lead nurturing and follow-up reminders
Cons
- Pricing can be high for smaller dealerships with custom plans
- Limited third-party integrations compared to larger CRM competitors
- Interface feels dated in some areas despite functional updates
Best For
Mid-sized automotive dealerships seeking an integrated CRM with website and marketing tools to boost digital sales.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting around $500/month per dealership, based on size, features, and locations; contact for quote.
AutoSweet
specializedCloud-based CRM for automotive dealers offering automated follow-ups, inventory integration, and performance reporting.
SweetSites: Fully integrated dealer website builder with SEO tools and lead capture directly into CRM
AutoSweet is a CRM platform tailored for automotive dealerships, focusing on lead management, sales automation, and customer retention. It integrates with popular DMS systems and offers tools for digital retailing, follow-up campaigns, and dealer websites. The software emphasizes streamlining dealer operations to improve conversion rates and customer satisfaction.
Pros
- Robust lead tracking and automated follow-ups
- Seamless DMS integrations for sales and service
- Built-in digital retailing and menu presentation tools
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting customization
- Occasional glitches in mobile app
- Higher cost for smaller dealerships
Best For
Mid-sized automotive dealerships seeking an integrated CRM with website and digital sales capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $495/month for core CRM, with add-ons for websites and advanced features; custom quotes for enterprises.
Conclusion
Evaluating these top 10 dealer CRM tools reveals VinSolutions as the definitive leader, excelling in lead management and retention for automotive dealerships. DealerSocket and CDK Elead stand out as strong alternatives, with DealerSocket offering an all-in-one digital platform and CDK Elead boasting advanced integration and behavioral targeting—each fitting distinct operational needs. Regardless of focus, the top three tools deliver significant value to streamline sales and service.
Take the next step for your dealership: explore VinSolutions to unlock its ability to boost leads, enhance customer relationships, and drive long-term success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison