---
title: "Best Auto Dealer Accounting Software - 2026 Reviews & Pricing"
description: "Find the best Automotive Dealership Accounting Software for your organization. Compare top Automotive Dealership Accounting Software systems with customer reviews, pricing, and free demos."
source_url: "https://www.softwareadvice.com/accounting/auto-dealership-software-comparison/"
page_type: "subcategory"
language: "en"
---

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Auto Dealer Accounting Software

Software Advice offers objective insights based on verified user reviews and independent product and market research. When our advisors match you to a software provider, we may earn a referral fee.

# Best Auto Dealer Accounting Software of 2026

Updated November 3, 2026

## Auto Dealer Accounting FAQs

-   How do I choose the right Auto Dealer Accounting software for my business?
    
    The right auto dealer accounting tool depends on matching industry-specific needs, integration requirements, and budget with what each option offers. According to our advisors, buyers consistently look for features that handle dealership accounting tasks, connect with other systems already in use, and provide clear reporting. Teams should confirm which deployment models are available, what training or support is included, and whether the tool can adapt as the dealership grows.
    
-   What should businesses watch out for when choosing Auto Dealer Accounting software?
    
    Advisor-call conversations show that most buyers researching auto dealer accounting systems come from the Automotive industry, so industry-specific needs often shape their priorities. Deployment preferences are not always clear, so buyers should check how each system can be accessed and verify what support or training is included before committing to a choice.
    
-   What is Auto Dealer Accounting software and what does it do?
    
    Auto dealer accounting software helps auto dealerships track revenue, manage expenses, and handle daily financial tasks. During advisor calls, buyers describe using this software to support standard accounting processes and often to monitor vehicle inventory. A common goal is getting clearer financial reports tailored to the needs of car dealerships.
    

On this page

1.  Popular Comparisons
2.  Buyers Guide
3.  Frequently Asked Questions
4.  Related Software

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### Compare Products

Showing 1 - 25 of 49 products

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**Recommendations**: Sorts listings by the number of recommendations our advisors have made over the past 30 days. Our advisors assess buyers’ needs for free and only recommend products that meet buyers’ needs. Vendors pay Software Advice for these referrals.  
  
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### [Sage 50 Accounting](/accounting/sage-50cloud-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.0/5
- Reviews: 630
- Starting price: $124.42/month
- Best for: On the rise
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Sage 50 Accounting is an accounting solution designed to cater to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. It offers a suite of tools that streamline financial management,

[Read more](/accounting/sage-50cloud-profile/)

##### What users love

- Comprehensive financial management tools
- User-friendly and intuitive interface
- Tailored for small businesses

##### To take in mind

- Inconsistent and limited support options
- Limited and cumbersome reporting features
- Expensive and rising subscription costs

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- "What If" Scenarios: 5/5
- Order Management: 5/5
- Customizable Templates: 5/5
- Financial Management: 5/5

[See all features](/accounting/sage-50cloud-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Pro Accounting

- Price: $124.42/month
- This plan is also available at an annual subscription of $625. Pricing for single user.

##### Premium Accounting

- Price: $169.33/month
- This plan is also available at an annual subscription of $1043 and is designed for small businesses

##### Quantum Accounting

- Price: $253.42/month
- This plan is also available at an annual subscription of $1780 and provides industry specific

[See full pricing details](/accounting/sage-50cloud-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [Sage Intacct](/accounting/intacct-accounting-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.3/5
- Reviews: 718
- Best for: Mid-size businesses
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Sage Intacct operates within the Sage Business Cloud portfolio as a comprehensive cloud-based financial management software, expertly designed to bring rich financial and

[Read more](/accounting/intacct-accounting-profile/)

##### What users love

- User-friendly and intuitive interface
- Comprehensive accounting functionality
- Robust, customizable reporting capabilities

##### To take in mind

- Complex and inflexible report customization
- Slow and unresponsive support experience
- Expensive and rising costs

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Quotes/Estimates: 5/5
- For Nonprofits: 5/5
- Vendor Management: 5/5
- Customer Statements: 5/5

[See all features](/accounting/intacct-accounting-profile/#key-features)

---

### [NetSuite](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.2/5
- Reviews: 2,086
- Best for: Enterprise businesses
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

NetSuite is an AI-powered cloud-based business management suite that incorporates ERP, financial management, CRM and eCommerce functionalities into a unified platform, helping

[Read more](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/)

##### What users love

- Deep system tailoring options
- Comprehensive and scalable functionality
- Centralized financial operations platform

##### To take in mind

- Steep learning curve and complexity
- Complex and rigid reporting tools
- Slow and inconsistent support experience

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Aging Tracking: 5/5
- "What If" Scenarios: 5/5
- Knowledge Base Management: 5/5
- Vendor Master Data Management: 5/5

[See all features](/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/#key-features)

---

### [Sage X3](/manufacturing/sage-x3-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.4/5
- Reviews: 176
- Best for: Small businesses
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Sage X3 is a powerful ERP software solution designed for midsized national and global manufacturers, distributors, and after-sales providers and can establish a foundation for your

[Read more](/manufacturing/sage-x3-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Supplier Management: 5/5
- Multiple Projects: 5/5
- Serial Number Tracking: 5/5
- Profit/Loss Statement: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Data Visualization: 1/5
- Performance Metrics: 1/5
- Real-Time Reporting: 1/5
- Enterprise Asset Management: 1.8/5

[See all features](/manufacturing/sage-x3-profile/#key-features)

---

### [Sage Fixed Assets](/accounting/sage-fixed-assets-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.3/5
- Reviews: 159
- Starting price: $0.01
- Best for: Depreciation Management
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Manage your fixed assets from acquisition to disposal with our best-in-class, comprehensive solution, Sage Fixed Assets. Capture, track, transfer, and depreciate your fixed assets

[Read more](/accounting/sage-fixed-assets-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Reporting/Analytics: 5/5
- Activity Tracking: 5/5
- Inventory Management: 4.9/5
- Asset Tracking: 4.8/5

[See all features](/accounting/sage-fixed-assets-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Basic

- Price: $0.01

[See full pricing details](/accounting/sage-fixed-assets-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [DealerCenter](/accounting/dealercenter-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.9/5
- Reviews: 1,486
- Starting price: $40.00/month
- Best for: For Automotive Dealerships
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

DealerCenter is a cloud-based dealer management system designed to help small to large businesses manage processes related to accounting, customer relationships, auctions,

[Read more](/accounting/dealercenter-profile/)

##### What users love

- Responsive and knowledgeable support team
- User-friendly and intuitive interface
- Comprehensive dealership operations suite

##### To take in mind

- Lag and frequent software glitches
- Complex fees and billing frustrations

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Remote Access/Control: 5/5
- Invoice Processing: 5/5
- Sales Reports: 5/5
- Reminders: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Sales Floor Management: 3.5/5

[See all features](/accounting/dealercenter-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### DMS

- Price: $99.00/month

##### Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH)

- Price: $50.00/month

##### QuickBooks

- Price: $40.00/month

[See full pricing details](/accounting/dealercenter-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [abcoa Deal Pack](/accounting/abcoa-deal-pack-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.8/5
- Reviews: 135
- Starting price: $99.00/month
- Best for: Small businesses
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

abcoa Deal Pack is a business management solution that helps automotive dealerships and finance businesses manage leads, campaigns, workflows, payments, complaints and more on a

[Read more](/accounting/abcoa-deal-pack-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Alerts/Notifications: 5/5
- Loan Processing: 5/5
- Lease Tracking: 5/5
- Recurring/Subscription Billing: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- General Ledger: 4/5

[See all features](/accounting/abcoa-deal-pack-profile/#key-features)

---

### [Frazer](/auto-dealer/accounting-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.6/5
- Reviews: 152
- Best for: Inventory Management
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Frazer is an on-premise dealer management software that assists used car dealerships with accounting and inventory management. Its key features include form management, tax

[Read more](/auto-dealer/accounting-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Customer History: 5/5
- Inventory Tracking: 5/5
- Financial Reporting: 5/5
- Mobile Access: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Sales Floor Management: 1/5
- Third-Party Integrations: 3.5/5
- Website Integration: 3.6/5
- Financing Management: 3.6/5

[See all features](/auto-dealer/accounting-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Basic

- Price: Custom
- Pricing available upon request

[See full pricing details](/auto-dealer/accounting-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [RouteOne](/accounting/routeone-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.8/5
- Reviews: 23
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

RouteOne is an auto dealer accounting solution that helps automotive dealerships manage sales, financial channels, leads, campaigns and more via a unified platform. The integrated

[Read more](/accounting/routeone-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Website Integration: 5/5
- Inventory Management: 5/5
- New Car Dealer: 5/5
- Financing Management: 4.7/5

[See all features](/accounting/routeone-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Basic

- Price: Custom
- Pricing available upon request

[See full pricing details](/accounting/routeone-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [Xero](/accounting/xero-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.4/5
- Reviews: 3,341
- Starting price: $25.00/month
- Best for: Value for money
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Xero is a Web-based accounting solution supporting growing automotive dealerships by providing real-time transaction and account details. Users can access information from multiple

[Read more](/accounting/xero-profile/)

##### What users love

- Streamlined accounting for businesses
- Automated and flexible invoicing
- Intuitive and user-friendly design

##### To take in mind

- Slow and limited customer assistance
- Expensive for growing businesses
- Limited and basic reporting options

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Order Tracking: 5/5
- Cross Ledger Posting: 5/5
- Status Tracking: 5/5
- Credit Card Processing: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Construction Breakdowns: 1/5
- Discount Management: 1/5
- Overpayment Processing: 1/5

[See all features](/accounting/xero-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Starter

- Price: $25.00/month
- An easy financial foundation - track cash flow with the essentials.

##### Standard

- Price: $55.00/month
- Go beyond the basics - automate tasks and access performance dashboards.

##### Premium

- Price: $90.00/month
- Future proof your scaling business - with advanced tools and analytics.

[See full pricing details](/accounting/xero-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [JobRouter](/automation-testing/jobrouter-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.5/5
- Reviews: 11
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

JobRouter is a globally active provider of solutions for digital business transformation and offers a cross-industry low-code platform for intelligent process automation to

[Read more](/automation-testing/jobrouter-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Workflow Configuration: 5/5
- Task Management: 5/5
- Business Process Automation: 5/5
- Graphical Workflow Editor: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Access Controls/Permissions: 4/5

[See all features](/automation-testing/jobrouter-profile/#key-features)

---

### [EBMS](/product/179206-ebms/)

- Overall rating: 4.6/5
- Reviews: 5
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Eagle Business Software is now Koble. 

We believe the right systems lead to better business, more productive teams, and more thriving communities - which is why we are passionate

[Read more](/product/179206-ebms/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Financial Management: 5/5
- Financial Reporting: 5/5
- Bank Reconciliation: 5/5
- Accounts Receivable: 5/5

[See all features](/product/179206-ebms/#key-features)

---

### [Centime](/erp/centime-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.5/5
- Reviews: 4
- Starting price: $149.00/month
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Centime is the leading cash management suite that helps fast-growing businesses easily control and manage cash flow. From forecasting, collections, invoicing, payments, credit, and

[Read more](/erp/centime-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Real-Time Monitoring: 5/5
- Real-Time Data: 5/5
- Accounting Integration: 5/5
- Forecasting: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Bank Reconciliation: 3/5
- Accounting: 3/5
- Electronic Payments: 3/5
- Audit Trail: 3.5/5

[See all features](/erp/centime-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Basic

- Price: $149.00/month

[See full pricing details](/erp/centime-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [PBS Systems](/auto-dealer/pbs-dms-profile/)

- Overall rating: 3.9/5
- Reviews: 11
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

PBS Systems is your steadfast partner in driving dealership success and transforming your business through our comprehensive dealership management software. Unlock cutting-edge

[Read more](/auto-dealer/pbs-dms-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Vendor Management: 5/5
- Customizable Reports: 5/5
- Contact Database: 5/5
- Sales Floor Management: 4/5

##### Worst rated features

- Campaign Management: 3/5
- Email Marketing: 3/5
- Lead Qualification: 4/5
- Sales Floor Management: 4/5

[See all features](/auto-dealer/pbs-dms-profile/#key-features)

---

### [Autosoft DMS](/auto-dealer/autosoft-profile/)

- Overall rating: 3.6/5
- Reviews: 22
- Starting price: $0.01one time
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Autosoft is a cloud-based dealer management system designed to help businesses streamline processes related to team communications, payroll, reporting, accounting and more.

[Read more](/auto-dealer/autosoft-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- General Ledger: 5/5
- Payment Collection: 4.2/5
- Financing Management: 4/5
- For Automotive Dealerships: 3.5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Lease Tracking: 1/5
- Website Integration: 2/5
- Service Department: 3.3/5
- Reporting/Analytics: 3.3/5

[See all features](/auto-dealer/autosoft-profile/#key-features)

---

### [SAP Business One](/accounting/sap-business-one-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.3/5
- Reviews: 346
- Best for: Features
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

This one-stop-shop gives users the comprehensive functionality needed to ensure your operation is running smoothly. Ideal for mid-sized businesses, SAP Business All-in-One is built

[Read more](/accounting/sap-business-one-profile/)

##### What users love

- Comprehensive inventory control tools
- Tailored for SMB growth needs
- Flexible integration and customization

##### To take in mind

- Significant costs and licensing fees
- Outdated and unintuitive interface
- Frequent slowdowns and crashes

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Quotes/Estimates: 5/5
- Activity Tracking: 5/5
- Production Management: 5/5
- Financial Analysis: 5/5

[See all features](/accounting/sap-business-one-profile/#key-features)

---

### [Fishbowl](/manufacturing/fishbowl-inventory-manufacturing-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.2/5
- Reviews: 1,134
- Best for: Customer support
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Fishbowl’s powerful inventory management software is designed to help businesses streamline operations, improve accuracy, and scale efficiently. It is widely known for its seamless

[Read more](/manufacturing/fishbowl-inventory-manufacturing-profile/)

##### What users love

- Responsive and knowledgeable support
- Robust inventory tracking tools
- Flexible and user-friendly design

##### To take in mind

- Unreliable and complex integrations
- Limited and inflexible reporting
- Cumbersome order processing steps

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Transportation Management: 5/5
- Label Templates: 5/5
- Recurring Orders: 5/5
- Ordering Automation: 5/5

[See all features](/manufacturing/fishbowl-inventory-manufacturing-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Basic Inventory

- Price: Custom
- Pricing available upon request
- Starting at 2 users

##### Advanced Warehousing

- Price: Custom
- Pricing available upon request
- Starting at 2 concurrent users

##### Advanced Manufacturing

- Price: Custom
- Pricing available upon request
- Starting at 2 concurrent users

[See full pricing details](/manufacturing/fishbowl-inventory-manufacturing-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [MYOB](/accounting/myob-essentials-profile/)

- Overall rating: 3.8/5
- Reviews: 151
- Starting price: A$30.00/month
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

MYOB Business Lite and Pro cloud accounting software for Australian and New Zealand small businesses that helps manage invoicing, expenses, payroll, cash flow, GST and tax

[Read more](/accounting/myob-essentials-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Vacation/Leave Tracking: 5/5
- For Small Businesses: 5/5
- Alerts/Notifications: 5/5
- Time & Expense Tracking: 5/5

[See all features](/accounting/myob-essentials-profile/#key-features)

---

### [Autorox](/accounting/autorox-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.8/5
- Reviews: 65
- Starting price: $899.00/year
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Streamline Your Auto Repair Workshop with Autorox: A Comprehensive Garage Management Solution

In today's fast-paced world, auto repair workshops face increasing challenges in

[Read more](/accounting/autorox-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Customer Database: 5/5
- Workflow Management: 5/5
- Vehicle Information: 5/5
- Transaction History: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Alerts/Notifications: 4/5

[See all features](/accounting/autorox-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Basic

- Price: $899.00/year

[See full pricing details](/accounting/autorox-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [CAMS DMS](/accounting/cams-dms-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.9/5
- Reviews: 28
- Starting price: CA$50.00/month
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

CAMS DMS is a cloud-based auto body platform that can be used by car dealerships to keep track of their inventory, customers, suppliers and expenses. The software can be used to

[Read more](/accounting/cams-dms-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- For Automotive Dealerships: 5/5

[See all features](/accounting/cams-dms-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Starter Plan

- Price: CA$50.00/month

[See full pricing details](/accounting/cams-dms-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [Autodeals](/accounting/autodeals-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.8/5
- Reviews: 15
- Starting price: $89.00/month
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Autodeals is a cloud-based software designed to help auto dealers manage various administrative processes related to accounting, CRM, inventory and more. Supervisors can use the

[Read more](/accounting/autodeals-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Website Integration: 5/5
- Payment Collection: 5/5
- Lead Management: 5/5
- Contact Management: 5/5

[See all features](/accounting/autodeals-profile/#key-features)

---

### [Big Red Cloud](/hr/big-red-cloud-profile/)

- Overall rating: 4.8/5
- Reviews: 5
- Starting price: €30.00/month
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Big Red Cloud is a reliable cloud accounting software designed for small businesses. It offers user-friendly interface and features including invoicing, purchase tracking, and bank

[Read more](/hr/big-red-cloud-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Accounts Payable: 5/5
- Billing & Invoicing: 5/5
- Bank Reconciliation: 5/5
- General Ledger: 5/5

##### Worst rated features

- Expense Tracking: 2/5
- Tax Management: 2.5/5

[See all features](/hr/big-red-cloud-profile/#key-features)

#### Pricing

##### Basic

- Price: €30.00/month

[See full pricing details](/hr/big-red-cloud-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [AutoBrief](/auto-dealer/autobrief-profile/)

- Overall rating: 5/5
- Reviews: 1
- Starting price: €0.00
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

AutoBrief is a cloud-based dealer management system (DMS) designed to help businesses in the automotive industry streamline inventory management, sales, finance, reporting and

[Read more](/auto-dealer/autobrief-profile/)

#### Pricing

##### Mini

- Price: €0.00
- For basic financing and vehicle sourcing.

##### Starter

- Price: €49.95/month
- For managing your entire vehicle business.

##### Pro

- Price: €99.95/month
- For advanced dealers.

[See full pricing details](/auto-dealer/autobrief-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

---

### [Dr. ERP](/erp/dr-erp-profile/)

- Overall rating: 5/5
- Reviews: 1
- Free trial: Not available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

Dr. ERP is a manufacturing execution software that helps businesses manage and integrate core business processes such as accounting, inventory, production, and quality control. The

[Read more](/erp/dr-erp-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Online Invoicing: 5/5
- Recurring/Subscription Billing: 5/5
- Compliance Management: 5/5
- Quotes/Estimates: 5/5

[See all features](/erp/dr-erp-profile/#key-features)

---

### [WickedFile](/accounting/wickedfile-profile/)

- Overall rating: 5/5
- Reviews: 1
- Free trial: Available
- Free demo: Not available

#### Overview

WickedFile is an AI-powered document management solution designed for automotive repair shops and parts suppliers It  uses artificial intelligence to automatically organize

[Read more](/accounting/wickedfile-profile/)

#### Features

##### Best rated features

- Document Storage: 5/5
- Full Text Search: 5/5
- Document Capture: 5/5
- Accounting: 5/5

[See all features](/accounting/wickedfile-profile/#key-features)

---

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[2](https://www.softwareadvice.com/accounting/auto-dealership-software-comparison/?__ai_markdown=true&page=2)

## Popular Comparisons

[

NetSuite vs Xero

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/accounting/netsuite-financials-accounting-software-profile/vs/xero/)[

Frazer vs DealerCenter

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/auto-dealer/accounting-profile/vs/dealercenter/)[

Sage X3 vs Fishbowl

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/manufacturing/fishbowl-inventory-manufacturing-profile/vs/sage-x3/)[

Sage 50 Accounting vs Sage Intacct

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/accounting/intacct-accounting-profile/vs/sage-50cloud/)[

abcoa Deal Pack vs CDK Global

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/accounting/abcoa-deal-pack-profile/vs/cdk-drive/)

## Send me a copy of this list to my inbox

### Get a copy of this list with pricing info sent to your inbox so you can pick up where you left off when convenient to you.

The accounting needs for car dealerships are far more complex and multi-faceted than your average business. Customers purchase vehicles using a wide variety of payment methods, many of which involve intricate financing agreements with outside credit agencies that require rigorous tracking. Managing a diverse inventory of vehicles with different Blue Book and depreciation values also presents a fair bit of challenge. Add in things like warranties, recalls and repairs, and the numbers really start to get messy.

With circumstances like these, pen and paper, Excel spreadsheets or simple out-of-the-box accounting programs won’t do. Instead, dealerships need to invest in dedicated automotive dealership accounting software—advanced accounting platforms built with the specific needs of car dealerships, large and small, in mind.

If you’re new to researching or purchasing automotive dealership accounting software, this Buyer’s Guide has everything you need to know to get started.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

[What is automotive dealer accounting software?](#Whatisautomotivedealeraccountingsoftware)

[Common features of automotive dealer accounting software](#Commonfeaturesofautomotivedealeraccountingsoftware)

[How much does automotive dealer accounting software cost?](#Howmuchdoesautomotivedealeraccountingsoftwarecost)

[How to evaluate auto dealer accounting software?](#Howtoevaluateautodealeraccountingsoftware)

## What is automotive dealer accounting software?

Automotive dealer accounting software allows dealers to easily and accurately track the numbers surrounding every facet of their business, and to also generate a number of standard and customized reports for greater financial visibility.

Car inventory management is a main concern of auto dealership accounting packages. Auto dealership accounting systems should record and organize the wide variety of costs associated with the vehicles, such as internal and external repair orders.

A particularly useful feature is inventory age policy settings, which allow the user to set the age limit of a vehicle on the lot before it is marked down in price or moved to wholesale. Some systems also record information on the performance of individual salesmen.

## Common features of automotive dealer accounting software

In addition to core modules such as the general ledger, accounts receivable and accounts payable, auto dealership accounting systems typically includes the following:

| Feature | Description |
| --- | --- |
| Regulatory compliance | Software should be designed to comply with Office of Foreign Assets Control and Specially Designated Nationals regulations, automatically checking the individual against the terrorist list and for ID verification. It should also support compliance for state, county and city taxes, as well as any registration details. |
| Dealer & traditional financing | Auto dealerships’ payments typically come in one of two ways: from traditional lending sources like banks or from the customers themselves in a “Buy Here Pay Here” dealer-financing model. An auto dealer accounting program should support both, managing payments from multiple parties and ownership types, reporting to credit bureaus, sending out automatic late fee reminders and repossessing the vehicle when/if necessary. |
| Credit checking | Since loans are involved, the dealership needs fast and easy access to the main credit bureaus. The software should be able to pull credit reports for Experian, Equifax and TransUnion, and be able to report data to those bureaus as well. |
| VIN database records | Auto dealership software should connect to VIN databases and/or decoding tools, making it easy to add new vehicles to your inventory and record sales data. |
| Repair order tracking | Managing service center repairs is an essential component for most dealers. Repair order tracking software can help manage job progress and efficiency. |
| Age policy settings | This feature, a specific benefit for automotive dealerships, allows the user to set the age limit a vehicle can reach on the lot before it is marked down or moved to wholesale. It will issue automatic reminders, therefore supporting the movement of old inventory before its costs exceed the value in keeping it on the lot. |
| Employee performance | Tracking sales results for individual salesmen, this feature will automatically calculate commissions, generate reports for long-term results and perform other tasks to simplify and improve the sales incentive process. |
| Warranty & service | Car sales usually involve some kind of warranty, either standard or supplemental. Some systems will allow for the sale of service contracts, as well tracking service costs and managing parts inventory. |

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## How much does automotive dealer accounting software cost?

No two accounting software platforms are exactly alike. Because of differing functionality, target audiences and pricing models, no two accounting software price tags are exactly alike either.

Here are some things to keep in mind, price-wise, as you research automotive dealership accounting software:

-   **Prepare for tiers.** Many vendors offer a tiered pricing structure, where the license cost starts out relatively small for a limited number of users, data storage or functionality and increases as you go to a different tier that offers more of any or all of the above. Figure out the functionality you need vs. the “nice-to-haves” to avoid spending extra on features you don’t end up using.
    
-   **Flat fee, per-user or something else?** Most accounting platforms, especially cloud-based ones, are priced using a subscription model. Not all subscription models are the same though. Some vendors charge a flat monthly or annual fee, while others increase or decrease that fee depending on how many users your system will have, how many employees work at your dealership or otherwise. Make sure you understand your software vendor’s pricing model before signing on the dotted line.
    
-   **Watch out for one-timers.** One-time fees outside of the license cost that are paid upfront are common, especially with more advanced systems that require a lot of effort on the vendor side to set up properly. Implementation, training, data migration, support and integration with other systems may all cost extra depending on what system you go with, so read the fine print carefully.
    

## How to evaluate auto dealer accounting software?

Regulatory compliance—including an extensive audit trail—is designed to mitigate risk and prevent potential government fines, so this is an important feature when purchasing automotive dealership accounting software. Franchised dealers will need to look for software with report-generation functionality that considers the specific instructions required by certain franchisers (e.g., Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ford) for composition of the financial statements.

When evaluating these systems, buyers should consider the following:

-   Does it provide built-in compliance settings for important federal regulations?
    
-   Can it adhere to particular franchiser requirements for financial reports?
    
-   Can it store information in enough parameters for inventory?
    
-   Can it link to a VIN database for easy information retrieval?
    

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