Autotrader
Autotrader: A free-to-browse marketplace combining vehicle listings, research and online purchase steps. Ranked #1 of 56 in Used Car Websites by our editors (9.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for shoppers comparing dealer and private listings.
At a glance
- Editor score9.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forShoppers comparing dealer and private listings
- Free planYes
- Buy onlineYes
- Founded1997 · Atlanta, GA
- Facts checked8 Oct 2026
Where it wins
- Search by location, price, mileage, condition and other criteria
- Save searches for email or text alerts on matching listings
- Explore financing, trade-in values and online purchase steps
Where it doesn't
- Online purchase steps apply only to eligible vehicles
- Delivery or dealership pickup depends on the vehicle and dealer
- Private sellers pay listing and Seller Exchange fees
Our verdict on Autotrader
Autotrader is a U.S. vehicle marketplace for buyers and sellers, with dealer and private-party listings alongside research and comparison tools. It suits shoppers who want to filter a broad set of new, used and certified vehicles, keep track of matching listings, and explore purchase options in one place. Founded in 1997, it is available on web, iOS and Android, and buyers can use a free membership to save cars and searches.
The search and research tools cover location, price, mileage, condition and other criteria. Shoppers can compare vehicles, review pricing information and vehicle histories, and save searches for email or text alerts. Private Seller Exchange listings include vehicle history reports; that service also supports messaging, offers and test-drive scheduling. Trade-in valuation tools and financing details help buyers consider costs alongside listings, while vehicle reviews and buying advice add context. This breadth is useful for comparing options, though shoppers who want only a simple listing board may not need its added research and transaction tools.
Autotrader is free for buyers. Sellers should account for a different model: private sellers pay listing fees of $9–$49 depending on asking price, plus a 0.99% seller protection fee for sales through Private Seller Exchange. Eligible vehicles can move through online purchase steps, but delivery or dealership pickup depends on the specific vehicle and dealer, so the online route is not identical for every listing. Choose Autotrader if you value a mix of dealer and private inventory, saved-search alerts and financing exploration; look elsewhere if a uniform end-to-end online purchase process is essential.
Autotrader pricing
Autotrader fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Buy online | Yes |
| Listing types | Both |
| Delivery available | Yes |
| Vehicle condition | Both |
| Saved search alerts | Yes |
| Financing tools | Yes |
| Deployment | Cloud, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android |
| Support | Phone, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | autotrader.com |
| Facts checked | 8 Oct 2026 |
Alternatives to Autotrader
- AutoScout24A broad European car marketplace with listings, finance options and Smyle online purchases.9.2
- mobile.deA free vehicle marketplace for comparing listings, saving searches and contacting sellers.9.1
- Cars.comA free car marketplace with dealer and private listings, research and financing tools.9.0
See all Autotrader alternatives →
Autotrader vs the competition
- Autotrader vs AutoScout24
- Autotrader vs mobile.de
- Autotrader vs Cars.com
- Autotrader vs Carvana
- Autotrader vs Copart
- Autotrader vs Trade Me Motors
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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