11:52 am, October 27, 2026
Autotrader has announced an overhaul to its dealer terms and conditions as part of wider drive to simplify its processes.
The changes, which come into effect on November 10, consolidate four separate business rules documents into its main advertising agreement.
The changes will also increase the allowance for Economy Stock adverts and update terms covering leads, account security and legal compliance.
The Deal Builder, AT Calls, Price Indicator and Retail Check documents will be scrapped as standalone rules, with their provisions incorporated into the Main Advertising Terms and Conditions (MATC).
Autotrader says the changes will reduce paperwork and make its agreements easier for retailers to navigate.
Under revised package terms, dealers will be able to use Economy Stock adverts for up to 100% of their contracted stock, up from the current 50% cap.
The MATC will also introduce a consistent definition of a ‘lead’ across online forms, phone calls, chat, text messages and instant messaging apps.
Bosses say this will help the firm to provide more consistent analytics and performance insights.
In a statement posted on its website, Autotrader said: ‘As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency, digital security, and continuous innovation, we are updating our Terms and Conditions on Tuesday 10th of November 2026.
‘Over the past few years, we’ve made enhancements to how buyers connect with retailers.
‘To support this growth, we have taken the opportunity to simplify and consolidate our legal framework, reducing paperwork and making our documents far easier to navigate.’
What can dealers expect?
As part of the updated terms, dealers will need to ensure advertised vehicle prices include all compulsory fees, charges and taxes, including administration fees.
They must also provide a business email address and other material information to consumers after receiving a lead.
Elsewhere, the firm is also updating its account security provisions to support passkey authentication and clarifying liability relating to cyber incidents and platform downtime.
Meanwhile, changes to its Vehicle Check service will clarify the claims process for vehicles with outstanding finance. Dealers must first attempt to recover the money from the seller before Autotrader settles directly with lenders.
The company says other amendments, including updates to its Sales Insight and data processing terms, will not result in operational changes for retailers.
You can find out more about the upcoming changes on the Autotrader website.