SANTA MONICA, Calif. -

Edmunds announced Monday that its Five Star Dealer Awards have recognized over 350 car dealers nationwide for their outstanding customer satisfaction ratings.

This year, 25 dealers were also selected to receive Edmunds’ Five Star Premier Dealer designation for receiving the highest overall satisfaction ratings.

“Car shopping is a daunting task for many, but finding the right dealer shouldn’t be,” said Avi Steinlauf, chief executive officer of Edmunds. “We raised the bar on what it takes to become an Edmunds Five Star dealer in 2018, making it easier for shoppers to find a local dealer that shares our commitment to superior customer service and support.”

In addition to participating in the Edmunds Dealer Partner program, to qualify for a Five Star Dealer Award, dealers must have earned at least 30 five-star sales reviews on Edmunds over the past two years.

Both Edmunds Five Star and Edmunds Five Star Premier dealers must have held at least a 4.5-star average between Jan. 1, 2016, and Dec. 31, 2017, to qualify.

Additionally, Five Star Premier dealers must have also earned at least 150 five star reviews over the past two years.

“Earning Edmunds Five Star Premier status is a rare feat — less than 1 percent of Edmunds’ dealer partners ever reach that milestone, added Steinlauf.

“The 25 dealers that achieved this pinnacle in 2018 represent the best-of-the-best in their industry and a willingness to go above and beyond for their customers.”

For the full list of 2018 winners, click here.