The automotive industry’s challenges need no introduction—you’re likely already reeling from the latest tariff shake-up. Or maybe you’re fighting to secure buy-in from an eco-conscious prospect.
But even in times like these, there’s always another strategy to lean on. The right approach can help you regain momentum.
Enter practical, credible, and proven car sales email templates.
In the face of ongoing political and economic pressures, doubling down on your email marketing efforts could be your smartest move. And it all begins with the right email template.
At Email Mavlers, we’ve spent over 12 years partnering with several automotive brands, and others, so we know what works.
Both in well-designed marketing emails and sales emails.
These 7 auto sales email templates are designed to jumpstart your sales funnel and drive real results. So, let’s get revved up!
1. New Lead Welcome Email
Subject: Here to Help With Your Car Search
Hi [First Name],
Thanks for reaching out! I just wanted to introduce myself and let you know I’m here to help with anything you need as you explore your next vehicle. Whether you’re just starting your search or already have a model in mind, I’m happy to provide details, answer questions, or walk you through your options.
At your pace, no pressure.
If you’d like, I can also send over a few recommendations based on what you’re looking for — budget, features, or lifestyle needs. Just let me know!
Looking forward to helping you find the right fit.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Dealership Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address]
[Website URL]
From a marketing angle, the following welcome email checks all the right boxes.
Key takeaway: This email focuses on making a desirable first impression, encouraging two-way communication without pushing a sale. It positions you as a resource, not a seller.
The difference is key. Car buying is a huge financial investment, and the research process is lengthy and confusing. Shoppers are overwhelmed by a multitude of information sources with conflicting details. And automakers often fail to understand the customer’s mindset, feelings, and motivations beyond transactional data.
Therefore, in your very first interaction, you want to be perceived as a trustworthy, easy-going guide, not a salesperson.
Make sure to personalize these auto sales email templates, too. You can start with Mailchimp or HubSpot to use tags.
2. Post-sale Email Template
Subject: How’s Your New Car Treating You, [First Name]?
Hi [First Name],
I just wanted to check in and see how everything’s going with your new [Car Make & Model]. I hope you’re loving it and that it’s running smoothly!
If you have any questions related to features, maintenance, or anything else, I’m just an email or call away. We want to make sure you’re completely comfortable and confident with your new ride.
Thanks again for choosing [Dealership Name]. Wishing you many happy miles ahead!
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Dealership Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address]
[Website URL]
Key takeaway: Checking in after the sale shows you care about the customer experience, which can lead to referrals, repeat business, and positive reviews. Frequently, the post-purchase experience is overlooked by automakers. You can command this space, and stand out from the competition.
The high penetration of alternative drivetrains suggests a significant transformation or even a potential slowdown in certain segments of the aftersales market in the future.
So, if you sell EVs, you’ll have to alter the after-sales playbook as far as email outreach is concerned.
You can tweak the template for the EV segment by addressing such issues like range anxiety, battery health, smart car issues, etc.
3. Review Request Email Template
Subject: We’d Love Your Feedback, [First Name]!
Hi [First Name],
We hope you’re enjoying every moment with your new [Car Make & Model]!
At [Dealership Name], we work hard to make the car-buying experience smooth, stress-free, and memorable, and your feedback helps us do even better.
If you have a moment, we’d be truly grateful if you could leave us a quick review. It not only helps others feel confident in their decision, but means a lot to our team as well.
👉 Leave a Review
Thank you again for choosing us. And if there’s anything else we can help you with—now or down the road—just let us know.
Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Dealership Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address]
[Website URL]
Key takeaway: Requesting a review at the right moment can boost your dealership’s credibility and visibility.
Don’t sound demanding or beg for reviews, though.
Crucially, as far as the links added in our car sales email templates are concerned, make sure to test those before hitting send.
4. Service Reminder Email Template
Subject: Time for a Quick Check-Up on Your [Car Make & Model]
Hi [First Name],
Just a friendly reminder: it might be time to bring your [Car Make & Model] in for its next service! Regular maintenance helps keep your vehicle running smoothly and ensures it stays in top shape for the road ahead.
Be it an oil change, tire rotation, or a routine inspection, our service team at [Dealership Name] is here to make it quick and easy.
You can schedule your service online in just a few clicks:
👉 Book Your Service Appointment
Have questions or need help picking a time? Feel free to reply to this email or give us a call. We’re happy to help.
Thanks again for trusting us with your vehicle. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Dealership Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address]
[Website URL]
You could also design a service reminder email. Check out Nissan’s service reminder notification below.
Key takeaway: This email template reminds customers to maintain their vehicles while subtly reinforcing the reliability and convenience of your service team, which drives repeat visits.
However, don’t wait too long to follow up; missing service intervals can cost loyalty. And don’t make it sound like a hard sell or create urgency with fear. This applies to all auto sales email templates.
5. Trade-in Email Template
Subject: Thinking About an Upgrade? Your Current Vehicle Could Be the Key
Hi [First Name],
If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your ride, now might be the perfect time. Your current vehicle could have more trade-in value than you think, and it could make getting into a newer model easier and more affordable.
At [Dealership Name], we’re offering special trade-in incentives to help you get the most out of your current car. If you’re eyeing better fuel efficiency, the latest tech, or just a fresh start, we’re here to help you make a smooth switch.
👉 Get a quick estimate on your trade-in: [Link to trade-in tool or landing page]
👉 Or browse our latest inventory: [Link to inventory]
No pressure. Let us know if you’d like to schedule a free appraisal or chat about what works best for you.
Looking forward to helping you find the perfect upgrade!
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Dealership Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address]
[Website URL]
Key takeaway: This email template introduces trade-in as a smart, financially sound option, especially when paired with a current offer or incentive. But remember: Resist overhyping trade-in value, and guilt-tripping customers into an upgrade.
6. Lease-ending Email Template
Subject: Your Lease Is Almost Up—Let’s Talk Next Steps
Hi [First Name],
We noticed your lease on the [Car Make & Model] is nearing its end, and we wanted to reach out to help you explore your next steps— upgrading, buying out your current vehicle, or simply returning it.
Our goal is to make this transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’re here to walk you through your options, answer questions, and ensure you feel confident about your decision.
Here’s what you can do next:
Explore new lease or purchase options
Get a trade-in value for your current vehicle
Schedule a lease-end consultation with our team
Let us know what works best for you—or click below to get started:
👉 Schedule Your Lease-End Appointment
Thanks again for choosing [Dealership Name]. We look forward to helping you with your next move!
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Dealership Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address]
[Website URL]
The following email from Rivian, while not a lease-ending message, is a well-designed lease availability announcement.
Key takeaway: By proactively reaching out before a lease ends, you position yourself as helpful and informative.
One of the most fundamental components of these car dealership email templates is the subject line. Especially if you’re reminding the buyer of something or announcing an insurance update, you should make it known right in the subject line.
7. Referral Incentive Email Template
Subject: Love Your Car? Share the Experience & Get Rewarded!
Hi [First Name],
We’re so glad you chose [Dealership Name] for your vehicle. And now, we’d love to invite you to share that experience with friends and family.
Here’s how it works:
When someone you refer buys a vehicle from us, you’ll receive a [insert reward] as a thank-you! There’s no limit to how many people you can refer. More referrals mean more rewards.
👉 Submit a Referral
If they’re looking for a new car, used vehicle, or lease, we’ll give them the same great service you experienced.
Thanks again for being part of the [Dealership Name] family—we truly appreciate your support!
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Dealership Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address]
[Website URL]
Key takeaway: This email template encourages word-of-mouth marketing with a clear, easy-to-understand incentive, tapping into existing customer satisfaction to drive new business.
You may want to utilize text-based emails instead of plain text for automated dynamic personalization. None of the auto sales email templates we shared are text-based, but text-only.
You’d find it easier with text-based emails. Just copy the template, make it your own, and let your ESP take it from there.
(Just in case you’re not a good writer, consider hiring an automotive copywriter for car sales email templates.) If you’re looking for car dealership email templates for marketing purposes, you can check out Really Good Emails.
Wrapping Up
You came for email templates, but what you’re really holding is the starting line of a customer journey that doesn’t stall. Whether it’s a new lead or a long-time leaseholder, we think these auto sales email templates open doors, build trust, and move metal.
Sure, sales might happen on the lot, but the relationship? It starts with empathy, credibility, and trust.
So go ahead. Shift into drive, tweak these car sales email templates to your voice, and let your emails do more than speak.
If you need help with designing and coding custom or interactive automotive email marketing templates, we can help!
Susmit Panda - Content writer
