On the Dash:
- 44% of consumers use AI tools for vehicle research, and nearly all say it will influence purchase decisions.
- Shoppers trust artificial intelligence for early-stage research but still depend on dealers for financing and final decisions.
- Users engage more deeply with AI-assisted search, reflecting growing demand for faster and more personalized shopping tools.
Artificial intelligence is becoming a central part of the car shopping process, according to new data released by Cars.com. The company’s “AI in Car Shopping Consumer Survey,” conducted November 4-10, 2025, found that 44% of respondents have used AI-powered search tools when shopping for a vehicle, and 97% said the technology will influence their future purchase decisions.
The survey highlights how shoppers use artificial intelligence to research vehicles, compare models, locate price estimates, and get quick answers to specific questions. About 73% of AI users said the technology saves time by turning general queries into targeted search results. Two-thirds expressed interest in a more personalized AI assistant that could help guide their shopping journey.
Trust in artificial intelligence tools is moderate but continues to build. Seventy-one percent of respondents said they have at least some trust in AI-generated vehicle information, although 63% voiced concern that recommendations may be biased. The survey shows that shoppers still rely heavily on established review and car shopping sites for vetted, objective information.
The role of AI appears strongest in the early stages of research. Once shoppers narrow their choices, 41% said they typically move on to a dealer or manufacturer website. Most respondents indicated they still look to dealerships for guidance with financing and final purchase decisions, even after using AI to shape their search.
Cars.com reported that engagement with AI-assisted search continues to grow on its platform, with users spending more time researching vehicles and saving more listings than traditional shoppers. The company noted that it is adding new features, such as AI summaries and comparison tools, as consumer interest evolves.
The findings point to a steady shift in consumer expectations around speed, convenience, and personalized results. While artificial intelligence is becoming an important tool in the research phase, shoppers still want human expertise and verified data before committing to a major purchase.
