Twice as many automotive dealers are using independent online buying services to assist with the new-vehicle sales process compared to 1999 results, according to J.D. Power and Associates . The J.D. Power and Associates 2000 Dealer Satisfaction with Online Buying Services Study found that the average dealer receives leads from three distinct online services. In addition, most participating dealers say that customers who are referred through an online buying service are given a discounted price quote up front without having to make an offer.
Many dealers provide the option to bring a new vehicle to the customer's home for a test drive.
The online services are particularly effective for shoppers who feel intimidated by salespeople and want to find a dealer that is willing to give them their best price right up front without a lot of negotiation. The survey asked dealers to rate their experience with each of the online buying services. Autobytel's success in satisfying dealers results primarily from its continued position as the sales leader. Its dealers receive an average of 84 new-vehicle sales per leads per month, which is significantly more than any of its nearest competitors. Isuzu's program ranked fourth overall, but ranked highest among all manufacturer-sponsored services.