How to Cancel AutoTrader: Dealer Subscriptions, Listings, and Buyer Accounts (2026)
Updated February 2026 • 5 min read
✅ Buyers: AutoTrader is free for car shoppers. You do not need to cancel anything — but you may want to delete your account data.
AutoTrader is the largest online vehicle marketplace in the US, connecting car buyers with dealers. If you are a buyer, the site is free — but if you are a dealer paying for listing subscriptions, canceling can be complicated due to contract terms and sales rep relationships.
For Buyers: Deleting Your AutoTrader Account
Searching on AutoTrader is free, but if you created an account to save vehicles, get alerts, or contact dealers, here is how to remove it:
Follow the prompts to delete your account and data
Data Deletion via Privacy Request
If you cannot find the delete option in settings (it moves around), use the privacy route:
Email privacy@autotrader.com
Subject: "Account and Data Deletion Request"
Include the email associated with your account
Reference your state privacy law (CCPA in California, VCDPA in Virginia, etc.)
They must respond within 45 days under most state privacy laws
Stop Email Alerts
Even without deleting your account, you can stop AutoTrader emails:
Click Unsubscribe at the bottom of any AutoTrader email
Or go to Account Settings → Email Preferences → turn off all notifications
Dealer-specific emails (if you contacted a dealer) may need separate unsubscribes
For Dealers: Canceling Your AutoTrader Subscription
Dealer subscriptions are where AutoTrader makes its money — and where cancellation gets complicated.
Understanding Your Contract
Contract length: Typically 6 or 12 months
Pricing: Varies wildly — $500-$5,000+/month depending on inventory size and market
Auto-renewal: Most contracts auto-renew unless canceled 30-60 days before the end
Early termination: May include penalties (check your specific contract)
How to Cancel
Contact your dedicated AutoTrader sales rep directly (they assigned one when you signed up)
If you cannot reach your rep, call the dealer support line: 1-800-353-9350
Request cancellation in writing (email) — verbal cancellations are harder to prove
Ask for written confirmation with the cancellation effective date
Monitor your next billing statement to ensure charges stop
⚠️ Retention tactics: Your sales rep will likely offer discounts, additional features, or reduced pricing. If you are firm on canceling, be direct — "I appreciate the offer but I need to cancel effective [date]."
Alternatives to AutoTrader for Dealers
Cars.com: Second-largest marketplace, similar reach
CarGurus: Growing fast, emphasis on deal ratings
Facebook Marketplace: Free listings, strong local reach
Craigslist: Still effective for local sales, especially used vehicles
Your own website + Google Ads: Higher margin, builds your brand directly
Alternatives for Buyers
If you are looking for a car and want to use other platforms:
Carvana: Online-only, delivery to your door, 7-day return policy
TrueCar: Shows what others paid for the same vehicle
Facebook Marketplace: Best for private-party deals
Summary
Buyers: AutoTrader is free. Delete your account via Settings or email privacy@autotrader.com.
Dealers: Contact your sales rep or call 1-800-353-9350. Get cancellation in writing. Watch for auto-renewal clauses.
💡 Lost track of what you are paying for each month?Upload your bank statement to JustCancel — we will scan for every recurring charge and show you exactly how much you can save.