A guide to Auto Trader

Auto Trader provides classified advertising of motor vehicles and related products through its website Autotrader.co.uk, a mobile phone app and the Auto Trader magazine. Launched in 1977, the company operates in the UK, South Africa, Ireland and Italy. The website receives up to 10 million* monthly unique users and the magazine has a weekly circulation of 136,000* copies. * Source: Omniture.

Buying

For customers wishing to use Auto Trader to buy a vehicle, they can either browse the weekly magazine or visit Autotrader.co.uk.

Online

Once online, users must decide on either new or used vehicles. It is then necessary to enter a few details such as postcode, the distance that you're willing to travel, minimum and maximum prices and make and model of desired car. The number of results found is listed and details can be re-entered to reduce or increase these results. Next, click on the Search button and the results are displayed, starting at lowest price first (although this can be changed). Many of the results contain one or more photos which enhance the selling opportunity. Finally, by clicking on the title of the vehicle, all the relevant information is displayed including the sellers contact details.

Selling

Selling a vehicle on Autotrader.co.uk has been made easier. There are useful tips at each stage to ensure the vehicle is sold successfully and safely. Prices are competitive and there is an advice section solely for selling vehicles.

Other facilities

There are several other facilities offered on Autotrader.co.uk.

Car reviews

For a reliable car review, simply type in the make and model of the desired car and choose between an owner's review or one by an expert.

Car dealers

By typing in your postcode and the distance to be covered, Autotrader.co.uk lists all the new and used car dealers in the area.

Car insurance

Trader also offers car insurance. Answer all the usual questions and they'll compare over 400 prices.

Vehicle check

For an additional cost, Autotrader.co.uk will provide a vehicle check. This gives a comprehensive history of the car before you decide to buy it, identifying any outstanding issues such as finance owed and depending on whether it's been written off or scrapped. Auto Trader has been providing an essential service to motorists for many years. With ease of use and facilities offered on its website, the company is likely to offer a buying and selling platform for many more years.