CDK Global: CRM reviews + better alternatives

When searching for the perfect dealership CRM, unclear pricing can make things difficult.

CDK Global is one option to consider – but not the only one.

We've lined up some alternatives to CDK Global that could just be the CRM solution you're looking for.

What is CDK Global’s CRM?

CDK Global is a leading provider of retail technology featuring a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system, Elead*, built for automotive retail. The system helps car dealerships manage their customer relationships, from start to finish.

*CDK Global acquired Elead in 2018.

Key features of CDK Global’s CRM

• 360-degree view of customers for personalized interactions
• Lead management across online, phone, and showroom sources
• AI integration for better workflow in automotive retail
• Data-driven insights into customer behavior and sales trends
• Integration with other retail technology systems
• AI Virtual Assistant provides real-time, personalized customer responses
• Data management prevents duplicate and incorrect customer records
• Tools for both new and used vehiclevehicles sales processes
• Support for fixed operations and interactions with auto manufacturers
• Spotlight CDK Global employees' efforts in optimizing CRM use

Besides the CRM capabilities, the platform offers:

• finance & insurance
• dealer management system
• fixed operations
• network and communication services

It’s best for: businesses connected to car dealerships and retail technology companies.

Pricing: a package offering a CRM solution costs $285/dealer/month.

Free trial: not available.

Why should you look for CDK Global’s CRM alternatives?

As good as it sounds, CDK Global may not always be the best solution for your business. Below, you’ll find a few reasons why it might be better to pick other CRM tools:

Many glitches in the CRM system

Some users report glitches in the CRM system, and technical issues slow down dealership operations. If the system does not work well, for example, employees cannot retrieve information immediately when they need it, it takes longer to handle customer service and close sales.

CRM system delays and inefficiencies may impact day-to-day operations, It could also result in a potential loss of revenue for the dealer, and frustration for customers.

Complicated pricing

Compared to other alternatives, CDK Global’s pricing is very complex (there’s a special guide explaining the packages) – each package and feature has a different price, which could complicate budget planning.

Limited CRM-specific features for the base price

The starting price for the Front Office Package, which includes CRM applications, is $285 per month. It’s already a pressing issue for many businesses looking for wallet-friendly options. What’s more, the base price for the CRM system covers only a limited set of features, and anything beyond basic CRM functions might incur additional fees.

A couple of reviews to prove this point:

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Alternatives to CDK Global CRM

If CDK Global’s Elead doesn’t convince you, here’s a list of great alternatives:

#1 Capsule CRM

Capsule CRM is a user-friendly CRM solution that lets businesses easily track relationships and manage their sales pipelines. It also comes with features dedicated to auto dealers

Capsule CRM lets you handle contacts, sales, tasks, and custom data – all in one place. You won't miss any opportunities or important tasks!

Key features of Capsule CRM

• A clear view of your dealership's sales pipeline – helpful when targeting sales strategies.
• Contact management stores and organizes customer details for easy access.
• Task management for sales appointments and client meetings.
• Extensive customization to meet the specific needs of your dealership.
• Reporting and analytics provide insights into the company's performance.
• Email integration with platforms like Transpond and Gmail organizes email correspondence.
• Mobile CRM allows CRM activities management on the go with full functionality across devices.
• Data security ensures privacy and security with SOC 2 Type II accreditation.
• App integration: G Suite, Mailchimp, and Xero for enhancing the dealership's technology setup.
• Custom lists and filters for better segmentation and management of contacts and sales data.

Best for: auto dealers, but also small to medium businesses in any industry, sales teams, email marketing teams.

Pricing: starts at $14/user/month when billed annually. Capsule CRM also offers a forever free plan.

Free trial: Available for 14 days – sign up for it today, and try Capsule CRM out.

#2 DealerSocket

DealerSocket's CRM system helps auto manufacturers run their businesses better. It puts together all parts of the dealership, like sales, DMS, and inventory management.

Key features of DealerSocket CRM

• Centralized customer info dashboard
• Decent integration of OEMs and industry platforms
• Mobile-friendliness

Best for: franchise dealers – they benefit from strong connections with auto manufacturers, and independent dealers.

Pricing: Contact sales for pricing information.

Free trial: No free trial info is available.

#3 AutoRaptor

AutoRaptor CRM is intended to boost sales and streamline operations in auto dealerships.

Key features of AutoRaptor CRM

• Text messaging and communication tracking
• Inventory management integration
• Automated reminders and scheduling
• Lead management tools

Best for: independent and used car dealerships, and teams needing strong lead management.

Pricing: No pricing details available – volatile prices are depending on number of users, messaging needs, integration needs, and subscription term.

Free trial: no, but there’s a demo.

Choose the best CRM for your automotive retail company

CDK serves well for auto dealerships as it comes with many other car retail-oriented features. However, the high price might be a decisive factor for many. There’s no free trial, so you can’t even try the tool out before committing to its full version.

If you are looking for a CRM that works well at a much more affordable price, Capsule CRM may be a better choice.

Capsule CRM focuses solely on customer relationship management, so you won’t pay for any other capabilities, just the CRM-related ones.

With Capsule CRM, you use the features that you truly need, and you don’t waste money on unneeded functions as you would do when choosing Global CDK, due to its enterprise price tag.

Create frictionless purchasing with Capsule CRM – sign up and try it for free.

FAQ on CDK Global

What is CDK Global?

CDK Global is a company that provides retail technology solutions. The system helps car dealerships manage customer relationships with services like finance, insurance, CRM, and more. CDK Global was founded in 2014, and it's based in Illinois (with franchise locations in the U.K. and U.S.).

What are the key features of CDK Global's CRM Elead?

Elead offers a 360-degree view of customers, lead management tools and AI integration for better workflows. It comes with data-driven insights and prevents duplicate records. It also supports sales processes for new and used vehicles.

Has CDK Global been acquired by another company?

Yes, CDK Global has agreed to be purchased by Brookfield Business Partners. Their institutional partners are also part of the acquisition. The total enterprise value of the acquisition is $8.3 billion.