List · October 29, 2026 · 2 min read
Dealership CRM systems: 9 automotive CRMs and who uses them
VinSolutions, Elead, DealerSocket, DriveCentric, Tekion and more: the CRMs car dealerships run, who buys them, and what it means if you sell to dealers.
Every dealership runs a CRM to track leads, customers and follow-ups. If you sell to dealers, the CRM a store runs tells you what you need to integrate with and who owns the budget: usually the GSM, the BDC manager or the internet sales manager. These are nine CRMs you will meet most often. DealerData is not affiliated with any of them.
VinSolutions
Cox Automotive
A long-standing dealership CRM from Cox Automotive, common at franchise stores and tied into Cox tools such as Dealertrack and vAuto.
Elead
CDK Global
CDK Global’s CRM, often paired with a CDK DMS. Known for its BDC and call-center features.
DealerSocket
Solera
A CRM used by franchise and independent stores, now part of Solera.
DriveCentric
Independent vendor
A newer CRM built around texting, video and engagement, which many franchise stores have switched to.
Tekion
Cloud platform
A cloud platform that bundles CRM with its DMS, so stores on Tekion often run sales, service and accounting in one system.
ProMax
CRM and desking
CRM, desking and credit tools in one product, used by franchise and independent stores.
DealerCenter
Independents
An all-in-one system for independent dealers, with CRM, inventory and DMS features together.
AutoRaptor
Independents
A CRM aimed at independent dealerships that want something simpler than franchise-grade systems.
Salesforce Automotive Cloud
Enterprise
Salesforce’s automotive product, used mostly by manufacturers, captive lenders and large groups rather than single stores.
Why it matters if you sell to dealers
- Integration: if your product writes leads or activity, you need a path into the store’s CRM.
- Buyer: the CRM owner, usually the GSM, BDC manager or internet sales manager, is often your champion.
- Timing: a store that just switched CRMs is rebuilding its process and open to tools that fit.
Ask which CRM a store runs on your first call. It tells you how hard setup will be and who else needs to say yes.
Looking for a CRM for your own sales team instead? Read 6 CRMs for teams that sell to car dealers. For the rest of the stack, see 8 types of dealership software.
Frequently asked questions
What CRM do car dealerships use?
Franchise stores commonly run VinSolutions, Elead, DealerSocket, DriveCentric or Tekion. Independent dealers often use DealerCenter, ProMax or AutoRaptor.
What is the difference between a DMS and a CRM at a dealership?
The DMS is the store’s system of record for deals, accounting, parts and service. The CRM tracks leads, customers and follow-ups for sales and the BDC.
Who buys the CRM at a car dealership?
Usually the general sales manager with the BDC or internet sales manager, with the GM or dealer principal signing off. At dealer groups the decision is often made centrally.
Find the right person at every dealership.
Search free. Verified work emails and mobiles when you need them.
