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SAN FRANCISCO and IRVINE, Calif. — Autobytel has teamed up with DriverSide for a re-launch of its MyGarage in the fourth quarter of this year.

DriverSide is powering the service, which will be housed in a personalized ownership section on Autobytel.com. The re-introduction of MyGarage will kick off a series of products and services from Autobytel that delve into the entire vehicle purchasing and ownership life cycle, according to the company. 

"Autobytel is committed to extending its role as trusted advisor to consumers from their vehicle research and purchase process throughout their entire automotive ownership experience and beyond," stated Jeff Coats, Autobytel president and chief executive officer.

"I am especially pleased that we, along with DriverSide, can bring this unmatched offering to our current and new visitors who are holding onto their vehicles longer than ever, making timely scheduling of maintenance ever more critical," he added. "We believe that the addition of an ownership service will greatly benefit vehicle owners, and this is why we are pleased that DriverSide, which has world class tools and information for vehicle owners, will be powering Autobytel's MyGarage."

Consumers who have been to Autobytel's websites — including shoppers sending vehicle purchase requests to dealers via Autobytel — can register their vehicle at MyGarage. This gives them a personalized "garage" or dashboard that keeps tabs on all of service aspects and provides maintenance-related advice.

MyGarage also offers service-related updates, like special offers. Additionally, the product sends out warranty updates and recall notices.

Also featured in MyGarage are ratings and reviews of service facilities, diagnostic tools, advice from certified mechanics and more.

"By offering this extended ownership service, Autobytel will enhance its advisory role to consumers and will have the ability to expand its commercial scope related to lead generation, advertising and direct marketing into additional automotive-related categories such as parts and service, insurance, manufacturer warranties and certified pre-owned vehicles," Coats commented.

Jad Dunning, CEO and founder of DriverSide, added: "Autobytel pioneered the consumer-friendly car-buying model on the web and we are pleased to partner with them to add our unique garage services to their sites.

"Customers appreciate the convenience and ease of having their personalized vehicle information online and DriverSide's tools and alerts will keep consumers loyal to Autobytel long after they have made their vehicle purchase," Dunning continued.