Purchasing a new car is a significant investment, and navigating the process can often be daunting. The Aaa Car Purchasing Program is designed to streamline this experience for AAA members, offering a straightforward path to securing competitive prices on new vehicles. This program leverages the collective buying power of AAA members to pre-negotiate prices with franchised dealerships, potentially saving you both time and money.
What is the AAA Car Purchasing Program?
The AAA Car Purchasing Program is a member benefit that connects AAA members with a network of reputable, franchised new car dealerships. Participating dealerships agree to offer pre-arranged pricing to AAA members, eliminating the need for extensive haggling and ensuring a transparent purchasing process. This program is available for most makes and models, providing members with a wide selection of vehicles to choose from. It’s important to note that while the program aims to provide estimated member pricing, actual vehicle availability and final prices are determined by the dealership.
How Does the AAA Car Purchasing Program Work?
The process is designed to be user-friendly and efficient. Members can typically start online, browsing available inventory or even virtually configuring their desired vehicle. The website provides an “Estimated AAA Member Price,” which is a price based on pre-negotiated member pricing. For in-stock vehicles, this is an estimated price. For configured vehicles, it’s an estimate based on the base price, excluding options.
Once you’ve identified a vehicle of interest, the program connects you with a recommended dealership. It is crucial to visit the dealership to confirm vehicle availability and finalize the AAA Member Price. Remember that the initial estimated price excludes government fees, taxes, finance charges, dealer documentation fees, and emission testing charges. Additional factors like optional equipment, dealer-installed accessories, premium colors, and any applicable rebates or incentives can also affect the final price.
Understanding Estimated AAA Member Price and Savings
The program highlights two key figures: the “Estimated AAA Member Price” and the “Estimated Savings off MSRP.” The Estimated AAA Member Price is the pre-arranged price you can expect to pay as a AAA member at a participating dealer. The “Estimated Savings off MSRP” represents the difference between the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) and the Estimated AAA Member Price. This figure illustrates the potential savings you could achieve by using the program compared to the standard MSRP.
It’s important to understand that MSRP is the price suggested by the manufacturer and includes destination charges. However, it typically does not include optional equipment, premium colors, regional fees, rebates, incentives, or title, taxes, and license fees. The AAA Member Vehicle Certificate, which you may receive through the program, will show both the Estimated AAA Member Price and the Estimated Savings off MSRP for your chosen vehicle. Keep in mind that actual prices and savings can vary.
Benefits of Utilizing the AAA Car Purchasing Program
Choosing to purchase your next vehicle through the AAA car purchasing program offers several advantages:
- Pre-negotiated Pricing: Benefit from prices already negotiated by AAA, saving you the stress of haggling.
- Potential Cost Savings: Access “Estimated Savings off MSRP,” potentially reducing your overall purchase price.
- Streamlined Process: Simplify the car buying experience with a clear and structured approach.
- Reputable Dealership Network: Connect with franchised dealers committed to providing member-exclusive pricing.
- Member-Exclusive Benefit: Take advantage of this valuable perk of your AAA membership.
While the AAA Car Purchasing Program provides significant benefits, it is essential to remember that it is a service for Auto Club members with no obligation to purchase. Pre-arranged pricing is subject to change and is regularly renegotiated by AAA. Vehicle availability, especially for limited supply or special edition models, may vary. Always consult with the recommended dealer for complete details and to finalize your purchase. Explore the program today to see how much you could save on your next new car!