Best Practices for Social Media Marketing in the Auto Industry
Most car buyers check social media before visiting a dealership
Today, buying a car starts on a phone—not in a showroom.
About 7 out of 10 people check social media before they even step into a dealership. That means your future customers are already scrolling through Instagram, watching TikToks, or reading Facebook posts while deciding what—and where—to buy.
So here’s the truth: If your dealership isn’t showing up online, you might be missing out before you even say hello.
In this blog, we’ll share simple and effective ways to use social media to connect with local car buyers, earn their trust, and bring them to your lot.
Why Social Media Is Important for Car Dealerships
People don’t shop the way they used to. They use their phones to search, compare, and learn. That includes cars.
Here’s how good social media helps your dealership:
- Gets your name out in your local area
- Shows off your inventory with photos and videos
- Connects with real people in real time
- Brings in leads using smart ads
- Builds trust with helpful, honest content
What to Post on Each Social Media Platform
Every platform is a little different. Here’s how to use the top ones:
Still one of the best places to reach car buyers.
- Share updates on inventory, deals, and events.
- Post happy customer stories or service highlights.
- Run local ads to reach people near your dealership.
- Reply quickly to messages—many buyers use Messenger to ask serious questions.
Great for visual content.
- Post eye-catching photos and short videos of your vehicles.
- Use Instagram Stories to show test drives or behind-the-scenes moments. Add hashtags and location tags so more people can find you.
TikTok
Perfect for short, fun videos—especially for younger buyers.
- Show quick car tips, delivery day moments, or even fun team videos.
- Try trending sounds or formats (as long as they feel right for your brand). Keep it light, honest, and fun.
YouTube
The place for longer, helpful content.
- Upload car walkthroughs, how-to videos, and testimonials.
- Use clear video titles and descriptions so people can find them.
- Always include your contact info and a simple next step.
7 Simple Social Media Tips for Car Dealers
1. Know Who You're Talking To
Each platform has a different kind of audience. Make sure your message matches the people you’re trying to reach.
2. Use Real Customer Stories
Photos and videos from happy customers help build trust. Ask for permission and share those wins!
3. Stay Consistent
Post a few times a week. Don’t disappear for long periods. A content calendar can help keep things organized.
4. Show the People Behind the Cars
Let your team shine. Post about your staff, your process, and what makes your dealership different.
5. Run Smart, Local Ads
Even a small budget can go far. Use tools like Meta Ads to reach people in your area who are actively looking for cars.
6. Be Quick to Respond
Reply to comments and messages fast. People notice—and it could be the reason they choose you over another dealer.
7. Check What Works
Look at your post stats to see what people like. Then do more of that. Use the data, not just your gut.
Common Social Media Mistakes to Avoid
- Only posting sales or offers.
- Ignoring messages or comments.
- Using poor-quality photos or videos.
- Not optimizing posts for mobile (especially Reels and Stories).
- Copying others without adding your own touch.
Conclusion
Social media isn’t just a place to advertise—it’s where real relationships start.
Buyers today want to know who they’re buying from, not just what they’re buying. So be present, be real, and stay helpful. You don’t have to post every day. You just have to show up where it counts—with content that’s simple, visual, and honest.
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