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CarsDirect Review 2024: How Does CarsDirect Work?

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Written by: Michael Becker
Last Updated:

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CarsDirect Review

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Overall, CarsDirect can be an excellent platform for when you’re looking for a vehicle to buy. The platform can also be worth it to research the market and price your car. But since CarsDirect doesn’t allow you to list your car on their platform, you’ll need to post your car advertisement on another platform to reach potential buyers.

Legit & Safe

Offers Value

Turnaround Time

Payment Process

Pros

  • Lets you research used car prices to price your car fairly
  • Connects you with Peddle to sell your car within 48 hours
  • Provides lead generation and referral services to auto dealers
  • The platform is free to use

Cons

  • It doesn’t let you post an ad to sell your car through CarsDirect
  • It doesn’t offer car buying services

Jump to: Full Review

Best for Older & Damaged Cars

Peddle logo

Buys used, damaged or junk cars

Free tow and no hidden fees

Pays by ACH trasfer or check

Top Pick for Junk Cars

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Free, no-obligation cash offers

Offers free paperwork service

Pays on the spot upon pick up

Highly Rated by Customers

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Excellent customer service ratings

Honors guaranteed offer for 7 days

Can pick up a car within 48 hours

Great for Low-Mileage Cars

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Gives a real offer in 2 minutes

100% hassle-free online process

Free car’s Value Tracker available

How Does CarsDirect Work?


Founded in 1998, CarsDirect is an American online automotive research platform focused on providing a hassle-free car buying and selling experience. 

CarsDirect doesn’t buy cars directly or allow you to post your car ad on their website. Instead, it allows you to;

  1. Do initial research on the CarsDirect website to price your used car fairly.
  2. Go to a site like Peddle, one of the best car-buying platforms that will buy your vehicle directly within 48 hours.
  3. Get lead generation and referral services.

How Much Can You Get for Your Car With CarsDirect?


While how much you can get for your car depends on the make and model of the vehicle, you can expect to get between $5,000 to $40,000 and higher by selling a car such as an SUV.

Who is CarsDirect Best for?


CarsDirect is best for individuals looking to sell and price their used cars fairly. The website is also designed for those who want to shop for new cars.

What Types of Vehicles Does CarsDirect Purchase?


CarsDirect purchases used and new vehicles. Examples of the vehicles include Convertible vans, Minivans, Coupes, Wagons, Sedans, Hatchbacks, SUVs, Hybrids, and Trucks.

How Fast Can You Sell Your Car With CarsDirect?


Since CarsDirect provides an instant offer, if you accept the offer, you can sell your car within 1 day.

CarsDirect Fees: How Much Does It Cost To Use CarsDirect


CarsDirect is a completely free platform. You won’t have to pay any fees to research prices, sell your car through Peddle, or use auto dealer features.

CarsDirect Payment Options


Once you sell your vehicle with CarsDirect, the company will either pay you cash or deposit money directly to your bank account.

CarsDirect Reviews: is CarsDirect Legit?


CarsDirect is a legitimate business that provides an opportunity to sell or buy used and new cars. It will help you find your desired car within your budget. If not, it will help by arranging the financing source for you.

CarsDirect also offers a convenient and easy approach to people looking to buy a new car but has limited resources.  

Rated 2.7 on Trustpilot and 3.6 on Sitejabber, many people have applauded CarsDirect for its excellent customer support services. 

In addition, the majority of people prefer using CarsDirect because it manages everything for them. However, one of the biggest complaints from users is some buyers might take up to 1 week to pay.

WebsiteRating
Trustpilot2.7
Sitejabber3.6

What Are The CarsDirect Pros & Cons


CarsDirect Pros

  • Lets you research used car prices to price your car fairly
  • Connects you with Peddle to sell your car within 48 hours
  • Provides lead generation and referral services to auto dealers
  • The platform is free to use

CarsDirect Cons

  • Some customers have complained of poor customer service
  • It doesn’t offer car buying services

How Good is CarsDirect Support


CarsDirect has a comprehensive support and knowledge base including a frequently asked questions page, blogs, and articles with information to help both buyers and sellers. You can also contact them by emailing them at advisor@carsdirect.com or dealerquestions@carsdirect.com.

CarsDirect Review Verdict: is CarsDirect Worth It?


Overall, CarsDirect can be an excellent platform for when you’re looking to sell or buy a car. The platform can also be worth it to research the market and price your car and earn up to $40,000 if you are selling a car.

But since CarsDirect doesn’t allow you to list your car on their platform, you’ll need to post your car advertisement on another platform to reach potential buyers. However, if you’re trying to sell your car fast, you’d better go for Peddle directly. 

CarsDirect FAQs


What is CarsDirect?

Over the past 2 years, the company has served millions of car shoppers. In addition, it has been recognized with numerous industry awards, including being named “Top Site for Buying or Selling Anything” by PC World and one of the “50 Best” websites in the world by Time Magazine.

Based in El Segundo, California, the company allows you to research, price, purchase, insure and finance a vehicle online.

How does CarsDirect make money?

CarsDirect is free to consumers and makes its money from referrals to dealerships and lending institutions.

Is CarsDirect legit?

CarsDirect is a legitimate platform that lets you sell or buy a vehicle.

What type of cars does CarsDirect sell?

CarsDirect primarily deals in used and new cars.

Is CarsDirect free to use?

Yes. CarsDirect is free to register and use.

What makes CarsDirect unique?

CarsDirect is a multi-purpose website that allows people to sell, buy, and finance new cars.

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Michael Becker

Dollarbreak

About the author:

Michael Becker is a car enthusiast and expert who has been working in the automotive industry for over 15 years. He started his career as a salesperson at a local dealership, where he learned the ins and outs of the car market. Then he moved on to flipping cars for a profit.

Michael has also helped many of his relatives and friends to sell their cars, using his knowledge and skills to get them the best deals. He will guide you through the process and help you avoid the common pitfalls.

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