Morning All,
Has anyone used the Costco or Sams Club Auto Program to purchase a vehicle? If so, what’s your opinion and advise you can share about either? Trying to see if either program is worth tryout the service on my next car purchase.
Thanks
I looked at the Costco deals a while ago, years in fact. It’s worth inquiring but pretty sure you can make a better deal on your own. Depends on your tolerance for car dealer brain damage which is daunting. It’s always good to get comparisons and doing your homework.
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It depends on many things. The popularity of the car you’re interested in, the general auto market, etc. It never hurts to pay the 50 bucks and get a quote and see if you can beat it at the dealership - if you have the time an patience to deal with these maggots!
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https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/how-to-score-the-best-car-deals-at-costco-sams-club-bjs-and-amazon
Buy Previous Model Year or Clearance Vehicles
Shopping for cars from the previous model year or during >>year-end clearance sales<<
are other ways to maximize savings. When new models come in, dealerships are eager
to sell off remaining inventory from the previous year. The warehouse clubs’ auto buying
programs will reflect these closeout discounts, making the pricing even more attractive.
Similarly, shopping end of model year or holiday clearance sales can mean deep discounts too,
even on the newest cars.
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I’ll add that I’ve made some great deals the last 45 days of the the year. Black Friday through New Years Eve. Dealers have lots of cars to move and they love to bang the deal out BEFORE the end of the year. Get multiple bids for the same MSRP vehicle between dealers and then dig your heals in. Whoever blinks first loses 
.
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I cant comment on them but I did just buy a car last month. Never fun but like a test, if you study hard, you will do much better.
Research is your #1 friend. Know everything about the car you want before you try to haggle. Know the trim level and the addons you want. Dont let them upsell you on extras you dont need or want.
Truecar.com let’s you build your car with options and they give you a price range of what is considered a great deal to a not so great deal based on recent purchase history. You dont need to pay for this service but they do offer something like Costco and sams as well.
Test drive is also important. You do have to go to a dealership but I suggest test drive at least 2 different models and tell them you need to decide. They will want you to make a choice after a 2 min drive. Let them give you prices if they want but I wouldn’t put a deposit down if you plan on looking around. A friend left 2 deposits at 2 different dealerships and doesn’t want to deal with either one anymore. Now she has to deal with getting her $ back.
Hopefully you have time on your side. If so, use it. If they know you are desperate to get a car they will take advantage of you.
Also, know your “Out The Door Number”!. This is the selling price plus taxes and fees (minus trade in). Some dealers will tell you a great price and charge a crazy Doc fee or “Market adjustment” afterwards.
Good luck.
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Wow thanks to all my TP Insider Family,
This is all great advise. Unfortunately, time is not on my side. I am without a car and its ni fun. I need to buy one this week. I have settled on the 2025 Trax LT with MRSP around $26K. I don’t need all the bells and whistles. However, I do want a heated Steeringwheel. It came standard in the vehicles I researched online. I will be using a GM family plan discount. Googled research says I can use both.
I don’t like haggling over purchase, but I don’t want to spend more than I have too.
Going to test drive tomorrow. What should be my final offer on a new 2025 Chevy Trax LT?
Once again thank you all and have a great Sunday
This is what I always used, I’m in Canada.
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Based on truecar in Columbus Ohio (I have no idea where you are so I picked 43215).
You need to get the Convenience Package to have heated steering wheel so I added that with whatever package options came on true car website. There were only 2 package options and the other was fully loaded.
This is just a guide but should give an idea of the range you should be around.
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Hi @JPM69
I’m your neighbor in Michigan. Our price points are probably similar. The 2026 models are in showrooms now. So, I’m thinking they need to get rid if the 2025 models fast. Going to see if I can get Trax LT around $22,000 or less.
Will keep you posted once I make a purchase.
I’m in NY but close enough…lol
I like that thinking. The 25s should get you a good deal.
Good luck!
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Hello Mslea, I used this program 7 years ago, it got me $5K on the list. But got hosed for a lifetime repair policy. My advice is do not buy the dealer-recommended warranty.
Hi @jimmyjay1884,
I never get the extended warranty. I decided to postpone buying a new car for now. The needed repairs on my car was reasonable. So, got it fixed.
I really appreciate all the advise from my TP Insider family.
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@Mslea, I was wondering why we haven’t had any photos, figured you were out toolin’ ‘round in your NEW CAR !!! 
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Lol, I definitely would have uploaded a pic of the new ride. But, I’m happy to not have a car note.
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I’m not going to lie, I was hoping for a great deal story. Lol
Well at least now you have time to save up a little extra and make a purchase when you are ready and not when you are in a rush to get one.
It makes a big difference mentally and financially to have the buying leverage.
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Morning @JPM69
I was feeling rushed and a little stressed. But, I’m happy to be able to drive my 2010 Ford Fusion SEL longer. It has a lifetime subscription to Sirius radio without a monthly premium. I paid a one time fee of $400 when I purchased the vehicle. Lol, I’m older and cheaper these days. So, it will be just regular radio in a new vehicle.
Good Morning @Mslea
Yes the dealerships can make you feel that way.
You definitely got your money worth on the lifetime subscription.
I refuse to pay for radio too. I use my youtube music with my own cds DLd in it and occasionally pandora or spotify. I dont care if i have to listen to advertising because its free. Android Auto is great to have.
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You can transfer the lifetime to any car
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Hi @Bogey4943
Unfortunately, I cannot transfer my lifetime subscriptions. It’s written in the contract. However, do do plan calling and ask to transfer it when I purchase my next vehicle. Lol, all they can say is no. But, it doesn’t hurt to try.