Running ads on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram is a great way to generate high-quality auto leads. With the right approach, you can use auto Facebook ads and auto Instagram ads to attract car shoppers and convert them into customers.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about generating high-quality auto leads through Facebook and Instagram, and how you can make the most of those leads with the right CRM software.
Define Your Target Audience
To start, create an ideal customer profile (ICP) by thinking about your ideal customer demographic, such as age, income level, and location. You can also think about things like behavioral data, including what people have purchased in the past and their online habits. Finally, you might segment people based on more personal information, like their interests, values, and lifestyle.
Facebook and Instagram offer audience targeting tools that allow you to define who sees your ads. By narrowing down your audience, you’ll make sure your ad budget is spent on potential buyers who are more likely to convert.
Choose the Right Ad Format
Facebook and Instagram offer various ad formats, and choosing the right format can make a big difference in generating high-quality leads.
Carousel AdsUse carousel ads to show off multiple vehicles in a single ad. You can highlight special promotions, financing options, or limited-time offers on each carousel card to attract more leads. You can also use carousel ads to tell a visual story, such as a customer journey from browsing to purchase.
Video AdsUse video ads to show off vehicle features, performance, and special promotions. Create testimonial videos from satisfied customers or show behind-the-scenes looks at the dealership to build trust. To further boost engagement, you can use targeted auto Facebook ads and auto Instagram ads to reach potential buyers based on their online behavior.
Lead Generation AdsUse lead generation ads to capture potential buyers’ information directly within Facebook or Instagram. These ads can feature special offers, trade-in evaluations, or test drive sign-ups to encourage engagement. By integrating lead forms with CRM systems, you can quickly follow up with prospects and nurture them through the sales funnel.
Craft Compelling Ads
Your ads need to grab attention as quickly as possible. Here, we cover some tips on how to create ads that generate high-quality auto leads.
Use High-Quality Images and VideosFirst impressions matter, so showcase your best inventory with professional, high-resolution images and videos. Highlight key details like exterior design, interior features, and performance to entice buyers.
Write Clear CopyFocus on the vehicle’s best features and any special promotions. Keep your messaging short yet compelling, emphasizing what makes your dealership and vehicles unique.
Include a Strong Call-to-Action (CTA)Encourage engagement with clear CTAs like “Schedule a Test Drive,” “Get a Quote,” or “Apply for Financing.” A well-placed CTA makes it easy for potential customers to take the next step.
Use Facebook and Instagram’s Lead Forms
One of the most effective ways to generate high-quality auto leads is by using Facebook and Instagram’s built-in lead forms. These forms allow people to submit their information directly through the ad, eliminating friction and increasing conversions. Additionally, when someone submits a form on Facebook or Instagram, the platforms auto-fill the person’s data, making it quick and easy for them to submit. This means you’ll capture more potential buyers with minimal effort.
Use Retargeting
Retargeting ads target people who have previously interacted with your content but didn’t complete a desired action, such as scheduling a test drive or filling out a lead form. These ads work by using tracking pixels or cookies to follow people across various platforms, displaying relevant ads to remind them of the vehicles they showed interest in. Retargeting can help your dealership stay top-of-mind, increasing the chances of conversion by re-engaging potential customers who are already familiar with your offers.
On social media specifically, you can use retargeting to connect with people who have liked, commented, or shared your previous auto Facebook ads or auto Instagram ads. Since these people have already shown interest in your dealership, they are usually higher-quality leads and are more likely to engage again.
Optimize for Lead Quality, Not Just Quantity
Getting a high volume of leads is great, but quality matters more. Here’s how to make sure you’re attracting serious buyers.
Use High-Intent CTAsInstead of generic CTAs like “Learn More,” use action-driven ones like “Apply for Financing” or “Schedule a Test Drive.” These encourage people who are further along in the buying process.
Ask Qualifying QuestionsInclude fields in your lead forms that filter out less serious buyers, such as budget range, trade-in status, or preferred financing options. This helps you focus on prospects ready to make a decision.
Set Up Automated Follow-UpsUse email or SMS automation to quickly engage with leads and keep them interested. Quick follow-ups increase response rates and show potential buyers that your dealership is ready when they are.
Use AI to Automate Your Follow-Ups with the TECOBI Auto Bot
The TECOBI Auto Bot is an AI tool that can automate follow ups for car dealerships. It not only re-engages active conversations with contextual follow ups but also reaches out to older leads with personalized messages. By taking over routine follow-up tasks, the Auto Bot allows you to focus on higher-level customer service that requires human empathy and insight. This increases customer engagement rates and sales, and is a perfect example of how AI can blend with human customer service.
Learn More About How to Nurture High-Quality Auto Leads with TECOBI
Using Facebook and Instagram ads can help you generate high-quality auto leads that drive more sales for your dealership, but generating leads is only the first step–you’ll need a plan in place for what to do with those leads once you have them.
At TECOBI, we offer new AI lead nurturing services to help you improve your marketing ROI. By using our software to power strategies like segmentation and automated follow-ups, you can build relationships with potential buyers and drive more sales.
