Cars.com's Award-Winning iPhone App Helps Consumers Shop for Vehicles

Cars.com, an online resource for would-be purchasers of new and used cars, announced this morning that it had been awarded a MarCom Platinum Award for its iPhone app (available through the iTunes store). The MarCom award is given out by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals to recognize excellence in the communications industry.

The iPhone app was launched in February 2010, and allows its users access to the many features on Cars.com website. Users of other cell phones or PDAs can access the same features via the mobile version of the site. "With over 1 million downloads since its release in February 2010, car shoppers have made it clear that they value having a way to access the great features of our site not only from their home but on their mobile device too," said Sharon Knitter, Senior Director of Mobile at Cars.com. "Our ultimate goal is to give car shoppers the tools necessary to be confident in their purchase decision, knowing what to buy, where to buy and how much to pay."

There is a lot of useful information on the site. Shoppers can search through a database of millions of vehicles, both new and used, by make and model. Certified used vehicles are also offered. The search can be further restricted by price ranges or model year. It’s possible to look at photos and videos of the vehicles for sale. Users can find dealerships in their area, complete with directions and inventory lists. Other features include side-by-side comparisons, reviews of vehicles by both experts and other consumers, and a financial tool to calculate monthly payments. It’s possible for consumers to save favorite listings and add their own notes to them, including photos.

For those wishing to sell their own car, or just looking for a good deal on a trade-in, Cars.com also allows its users to search the Kelley Blue Book for used car values. The site can find dealers who buy old cars, or suggest local advertising options for those who want to sell privately. It’s also possible to advertise a car for sale on Cars.com, though naturally there is a fee for that service. Cars.com also welcomes dealers who wish to become part of their network.

In addition to reviews of specific models, the site also has category reviews, such as passenger cars, SUVs, or pickup trucks. There’s also a page listing current rebates and incentives, including a list of the “Top 10 Cash-Back Offers.” Another page allows users to search for vehicle safety recalls on specific vehicles.

With sites like Cars.com making it so easy to do research, no one should walk into a dealership unprepared.