Autotrader RSA Vehicle Sync Tutorial

Welcome to the Autotrader RSA Vehicle Sync app! This tool acts as a bridge between your AutoTrader listings and your Shopify store, automatically pulling your vehicle data (such as make, model, price, and images) and creating products on your website.

Follow these simple steps to configure your app and get your inventory syncing automatically.

Step 1: Set Up Your Shopify Metafields (Crucial First Step)

Before the app can sync your vehicles, you need to create specific "storage boxes" (called Metafields) in Shopify so it knows exactly where to place details like the vehicle's year and mileage.

  1. From your main Shopify admin dashboard, click on Settings (usually located at the bottom left).

  2. Select Metafields & Metaobjects from the menu, and then click on Products.

  3. You will need to create 8 new metafield definitions. Click Add definition for each of the following, ensuring you type the details exactly as shown:
    • Namespace: autotrader | Key: year | Type: Integer (Number)
    • Namespace: autotrader | Key: mileage_km | Type: Integer (Number)
    • Namespace: autotrader | Key: body_type | Type: Single line text
    • Namespace: autotrader | Key: doors | Type: Integer (Number)
    • Namespace: autotrader | Key: engine_capacity | Type: Single line text
    • Namespace: autotrader | Key: fuel_type | Type: Single line text
    • Namespace: autotrader | Key: transmission_drive | Type: Single line text
    • Namespace: autotrader | Key: transmission | Type: Single line text

    • Save your changes in Shopify and return to the Autotrader Sync app.

    Step 2: Enter Your Data Feed Configuration

    This step connects your specific AutoTrader account to the app.

    • On the app's main settings page, scroll down to the Data Feed Configuration section.
    • In the Proxy URL field, paste the unique feed link provided to you for your AutoTrader account.
    • Enter your assigned Username and Password into the respective text boxes.
    • Dealer ID (Optional): Enter your specific Dealer ID here if your AutoTrader credentials grant access to multiple dealerships, but you only want to synchronise vehicles for one specific branch to this Shopify store. If you leave this field blank, the app will simply synchronise all cars available in your feed.

    Step 3: Configure Your Sync Schedule

    Now, tell the app how often you would like it to check AutoTrader for updates (such as new cars added or old cars sold).

    • Tick the box next to Enable Auto Sync to allow the app to run automatically in the background.
    • Under Sync Frequency, select how often you want the app to update your store.

    Note: The options available in this drop-down menu (Daily, 12 Hours, or Hourly) will depend entirely on the billing plan you have selected.

    Step 4: Save and Run

    • Click the Save button to securely store your details and lock in your automated schedule.
    • If you are subscribed to the Premium plan, you can click the Run Sync button to immediately force an update. If you are on the Basic or Pro plans, this button will remain greyed out, and the app will simply run on its own according to your chosen schedule.

    Need further assistance?

    If you run into any issues or have questions regarding your feed details, simply click the "Need assistance? Click here" link located at the very bottom of the app's settings page to reach our support team.