Cookies & Tracking Policy
Last Updated: November 15, 2024
1. Introduction
This Cookies & Tracking Policy explains how Automotive DIY ("we," "us," or "our") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our website at automotivediy.com (the "Site"). By using our Site, you consent to the use of cookies and tracking technologies as described in this policy.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, smartphone, or tablet) when you visit a website. They help websites function properly, remember your preferences, and provide us with analytics about how the Site is used. We also use similar technologies such as web beacons, pixels, and local storage.
3. Types of Cookies We Use
| Cookie Type | Purpose | Duration | Can Be Disabled? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strictly Necessary | Essential for Site functionality (e.g., login, shopping cart, security). | Session or up to 12 months | No |
| Performance & Analytics | Help us understand how visitors interact with our Site (traffic, popular pages, errors). | 13 months | Yes |
| Functional | Remember your preferences (language, region, video player settings). | Up to 1 year | Yes |
| Advertising & Marketing | Deliver relevant ads, track campaign effectiveness, and limit ad frequency. | Up to 30 days | Yes |
4. Third-Party Tracking Technologies
We partner with trusted third-party services that may set their own cookies or use tracking technologies when you visit our Site. These include:
- Analytics Providers: Google Analytics, Hotjar (for usage analytics and heatmaps)
- Advertising Networks: Google Ads, Meta Pixel (for personalized advertising)
- Social Media Platforms: Embedded content from YouTube, Facebook, X/Twitter, and Instagram
- Payment & E-commerce Processors: Stripe, PayPal (for secure transactions)
5. How to Manage or Disable Cookies
You have full control over cookies through your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to:
- Block or delete all cookies
- Accept only certain types of cookies
- Block third-party cookies
- Clear cookies upon closing your browser
You can adjust your preferences anytime using our Cookie Preferences Center (accessible via the footer banner or "Manage Cookies" link). Alternatively, you can use these resources:
- Google Chrome: Manage Cookies in Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox: Cookies in Firefox
- Apple Safari: Safari Privacy Settings
- Microsoft Edge: Manage Cookies in Edge
For advertising cookies, you can opt out using: Your Ad Choices or Network Advertising Initiative.
6. Impact of Disabling Cookies
Disabling or blocking cookies may affect your experience on our Site. Some features (e.g., personalized recommendations, saved preferences, secure checkout, and video playback) may not function properly or at all.
7. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookies & Tracking Policy periodically to reflect changes in technology, regulations, or business practices. When we make significant changes, we will notify you via email or a prominent notice on our Site. The "Last Updated" date at the top of this page indicates when the most recent changes were made.
8. Contact Us
If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding our use of cookies and tracking technologies, please contact our Privacy Team:
- 📧 Email: privacy@automotivediy.com
- 📞 Phone: 1-800-DIY-CARS (349-2277)
- 📍 Mailing Address: Automotive DIY, Privacy Department, 742 Gearbox Lane, Motor City, MI 48201, USA
We aim to respond to all privacy inquiries within 5 business days.