Latest news with #CostcoAutoProgram
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Should You Buy A Car Through Costco? Here's What The Auto Program Actually Offers
Americans have a serious love affair with Costco. It's the third-largest retailer on the planet behind Walmart and Amazon, according to a 2024 report from Statista. Where else can you buy a $5 rotisserie chicken alongside items like a one-ounce gold bar, a 72-pound wheel of parmesan cheese, or a cheap, but rather attractive funeral casket for your dearly departed? Costco sells products for your car, too, like discounted tires, batteries, and the company's signature Kirkland brand motor oil. But did you know that you can purchase an entire car from the discount warehouse club? Well, sort of. Since 1989, the Costco Auto Program has been available to purportedly score club members a great deal on new or even used cars. To be clear, you're not actually buying a vehicle through Costco, but instead, through one of its network of approximately 3,000 dealerships, which have been vetted and specially trained to interact with Costco customers. Read more: These Are What You Wanted As First Cars (And What You Got Instead) Prices Are Pre-Negotiated Like most car-buying experiences nowadays, the process of buying a car using Costco's connections begins on the Auto Program's website. Once a suitable vehicle has been identified, a pre-negotiated price can be obtained from participating dealerships. That price potentially includes exclusive discounts that are only available to Costco members due to the high volume of business that the warehouse club funnels to car manufacturers and dealerships. Obviously, the allure of this system is that car buyers receive a lower price than the general public without the need to haggle. If Costco discovers that a dealership inflates the price or added mandatory fees that vary from its price agreement, it can be barred from participating in the program. Note that while Costco's website does provide advice and calculators to figure out monthly payments and how much car you can afford to purchase, it doesn't actually offer financing. Auto loan rates are relatively high as of this writing, but dealers are free to hike those rates even more for additional revenue, which is a profit point that's outside of Costco's jurisdiction. As with any financed car purchase, shoppers are well advised to do some research ahead of time as to what type of interest rates and terms are available through local banks and credit unions, as well as online. That way, buyers can confirm that the loan terms offered by the dealership's finance department are fair. Salespeople Are Held To A High Standard An additional grey area of Costco's Auto Program exists if the buyer has a vehicle to trade in against their new car. Like obtaining financing, the trade-in value won't be discovered until the Costco member visits or speaks with the salesperson further along in the car-buying process. It'll pay to get quotes from sources like CarMax, Carvana, and others to make sure that a fair trade-in value is being proffered. By this point, it should be clear that buying a car using Costco's system isn't quite as easy as visiting a website and completing the process online. You'll definitely interact with a salesperson, which the warehouse club calls "Authorized Dealer Contacts." Not just any salesperson is qualified to transact with Costco members, either. They're required to have been employed at the dealership for a minimum of six months and maintain high customer satisfaction scores. Reportedly, Costco occasionally deploys its employees posing as car buyers to make sure that these high standards are being met. As a whole, the dealerships that Costco accepts to participate in its car-buying program are held to similarly high standards as its salespeople. For example, Costco typically only works with a single well-vetted dealership for each brand in the geographical area of its warehouse stores. That's regardless of whether there are other competing dealers nearby. Moreover, Costco has been known to leverage the purchasing power of its large membership base to negotiate favorable outcomes for its customers in the event that a dispute arises with participating dealerships, even after purchase. Aggressive Negotiators Can Do Better So now that you know the benefits, is it worth purchasing a vehicle using Costco's Auto Program? To begin, you'll need a Costco membership card at a cost of $65 per year, and shockingly, it's not even accepted by the TSA as valid ID. Beyond that, we think it comes down to how much time you're able to dedicate to research, as well as your personal comfort level and experience when it comes to haggling. Costco uses its considerable largess to negotiate discounts with local car dealerships for its members. Additionally, it ensures that the dealership employees who interact with its members are of a high caliber. That said, there are still some aspects of the process that are open to the conventional pitfalls of car buying, like obtaining a loan at a favorable interest rate and getting a decent trade-in value for your old vehicle. So while Costco makes it easier for anybody to get a decent deal, some of the legwork required for scoring a great deal will still be necessary. To be sure, seasoned car buyers who don't mind a possible confrontation and who value money more than some extra time spent can likely beat a Costco deal by working the phone, email, and text messages to correspond with a larger number of dealerships. Likewise, those folks will enjoy a wider selection of vehicles from multiple area dealerships, not just one. Even if that means engaging with the occasional quintessential shady salesperson. Want more like this? Join the Jalopnik newsletter to get the latest auto news sent straight to your inbox... Read the original article on Jalopnik.
Associated Press
28-04-2025
- Automotive
- Associated Press
Airpark Auto Clinic Launches New Website to Enhance Customer Experience
'We understand that vehicle maintenance can be stressful, and we want to provide a seamless online experience that reflects the quality and reliability of our in-shop services.'— Alex Herrera, owner of Airpark Auto Clinic SCOTTSDALE, AZ, UNITED STATES, April 28, 2025 / / -- Airpark Auto Clinic, a trusted name in automotive repair and maintenance since 1995, is proud to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website: This modern, user-friendly platform reflects the clinic's commitment to providing exceptional service and convenience to its valued customers. The revamped website offers a comprehensive overview of Airpark Auto Clinic's full range of services, including auto repair, preventative maintenance, wheel alignment, A/C repair and more. Visitors can easily navigate through detailed service descriptions, schedule appointments online, and access special offers. The site also features customer testimonials, FAQs, and information about the clinic's team of ASE-certified technicians with over 80 years of combined experience. 'Our goal with the new website is to make it as easy as possible for customers to find the information they need and to connect with our team,' said Alex Herrera, owner of Airpark Auto Clinic. 'We understand that vehicle maintenance can be stressful, and we want to provide a seamless online experience that reflects the quality and reliability of our in-shop services.' Airpark Auto Clinic is also proud to be a Costco Auto Program Authorized Dealer, offering members exclusive benefits and trusted service. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit or contact the clinic at (480) 922-0859. About Airpark Auto Clinic Located in Scottsdale, Arizona, Airpark Auto Clinic has been providing top-quality automotive services since 1995. Specializing in both foreign and domestic vehicles, the clinic offers a wide range of services from routine maintenance to complex repairs. With a team of experienced, ASE-certified technicians and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Airpark Auto Clinic is dedicated to keeping vehicles running smoothly and safely. ### Patricia Monick Covert Communication +1 808-256-6759 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram Facebook X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
USA Today
08-04-2025
- Business
- USA Today
New tariffs could spike gas prices: Get fuel discounts from Walmart, Sam's Club, Costco
New tariffs could spike gas prices: Get fuel discounts from Walmart, Sam's Club, Costco These club memberships from Walmart, Costco and Sam's Club offer a number of member-exclusive benefits that'll help you save money on gas. As President Trump's proposed tariff plan makes waves in the global economy, many consumers are tightening their purse strings and preparing for potential inflation—particularly with gas prices. If you're looking for more ways to save at the pump this spring, club memberships are a great way to enjoy member-exclusive deals, including major fuel discounts you won't find anywhere else. Top retailers like Sam's Club, Costco, Walmart and Amazon all offer memberships designed to reward shoppers with unique benefits, including deals on fuel that'll help you to save money on gas and provide some extra breathing room in your weekly budget—which we could all use right now. We've done the work by highlighting the best club memberships to invest in to help you save money before tariffs take effect. Ahead, find details on their total costs, membership benefits and more. 📲 More: New tariffs could hurt your budget: Join Costco for bulk savings and a free gift card Shop the best club memberships with fuel discounts 1. Sam's Club fuel savings With a Sam's Club Plus membership, you'll get full access to Sam's Club fuel stations, as well as a number of other member-exclusive deals, like free shipping on most online orders for primary and household cardholders, extra pharmacy discounts, free curbside pick-up, 2% back on qualifying purchases and 50% off on select tire installations at the Sam's Club Tire & Battery Center. Sam's Club fuel is usually the most affordable option for gas in my city, so having full access to Sam's Club gas stations is hugely helpful in this economy. How much does a Sam's Club Plus membership cost? The Plus membership costs around $110 per year. But, for a limited time, you can now save 50% on a Sam's Club membership and get $40 off on the annual fee. 2. Costco fuel savings Prepare for potential spikes in gas prices with a Costco Gold Star Membership, which includes Costco member benefits like access to the retailer's warehouse and Costco fuel, a free household card and access to Costco services like the Costco Auto Program. How much does a Costco membership cost? For a limited time, you can get a Gold Star Costco membership on Groupon for $65 or a Costco Executive Membership Package for $130. 3. Amazon Prime fuel savings An Amazon Prime membership includes more than just access to great Prime member deals and the retailer's Prime Video service—you can also save money on gas. Prime membership benefits include Amazon fuel discounts of $0.50 a gallon at more than 7,000 participating gas stations around the country, as well as discounts on groceries, special access to Prime deals through Amazon and more. How much does an Amazon Prime membership cost? For a limited time, new members can sign up for Amazon Prime and enjoy one week of Prime benefits for just $2; following the discounted trial period, Amazon Prime memberships cost $15 per month or $139 per year. 4. Walmart+ fuel savings Walmart+ memberships come with a slew of great benefits, including fuel discounts of $0.10 per gallon at over 14,000 participating gas stations across the country. Beyond Walmart's fuel discounts, Walmart+ members can also enjoy unlimited free delivery, early access to sales and up to 5% Walmart Cash on Walmart+ Travel. How much does a Walmart+ membership cost? Walmart+ memberships cost $13 per month or $98 per year. 📲 More: Stay safe on the road: Save up to 31% on oil changes with this Groupon offer
USA Today
05-04-2025
- Business
- USA Today
New tariffs could hurt your budget: Join Costco for bulk savings and a free gift card
New tariffs could hurt your budget: Join Costco for bulk savings and a free gift card Sign up for a one-year Gold Star or Executive Costco membership on Groupon and get a free Costco Shop Card. With inflation and potential tariffs coming, it is important to find ways to save on all your essentials. From exclusive deals on groceries and pantry must-haves to gas and travel discounts, Costco member benefits are pretty sweet and could help you cut some costs this year. Our readers have been loving this Groupon offer on Costco memberships that includes a free $20 or $40 Costco Shop Card when you sign up for the Gold Star or Executive tier memberships. If you need to feed a growing family or are constantly restocking your pantry with household essentials and need to save a few bucks, this Costco membership Groupon deal is an easy choice. Learn more below and check out other offers at Groupon. Get a free $40 Costco Shop Card How much is a Costco membership? Now through Sunday, May 18, you can get an annual Gold Star Costco membership on Groupon for $65 and receive a $20 free digital Costco Shop Card to use on future purchases at any Costco location or online. You can also get the Costco Executive Membership Package for $130 and receive a $40 Costco Shop Card. The special Groupon offer is valid for new members or previous Costco cardholders whose membership has been expired for at least 18 months. Sign up for a one-year Costco membership on Groupon What's the difference between a Costco Gold Star membership and Executive membership? Gold Star Membership: Best for casual shoppers The $65 Gold Star Membership is a better option for individuals or families who shop at Costco on an occasional basis or do not require the additional benefits of the Executive Membership. With a lower annual fee, this membership includes access to Costco's wide range of products and services, making it a cost-effective choice for those who do not have substantial spending at Costco each year. Benefits: Warehouse access Costco Fuel access Free household card Access to Costco services including: auto and home insurance, Costco Auto Program, pet insurance as well as bottled water delivery Get a free $20 Costco Shop Card Stay safe on the road: Save up to 31% on oil changes with this Groupon offer Executive Membership: Best for frequent shoppers The $130 Executive Membership is ideal for frequent Costco shoppers, offering a 2% annual reward and additional benefits. For those who spend more than $3,000 annually at Costco, the Executive Membership includes major savings through exclusive discounts and promotions. The higher annual fee is counterbalanced by the rewards and benefits, making it a practical option for regular Costco customers. Benefits: All benefits of Gold Star Annual 2% reward on qualified purchases Free household card Access to Costco services with discounts on select services Get a free $40 Costco Shop Card Does Costco still have the $1.50 hot dog deal? The famous $1.50 Costco hot dog has been available in Costco food courts since 1984. The price has never increased and Costco's CFO assured customers that the price would not be impacted by inflation. How do you claim your Costco membership through Groupon? After you complete your purchase on Groupon's website, you'll receive an email from Costco confirming your membership details. Groupon says to allow up to two hours to receive your confirmation email. Your Costco Shop Card will be emailed within two weeks after sign-up to qualifying members. A physical membership card is not required to shop online or receive your included gift card. To receive a physical membership card, visit the membership counter at your preferred Costco location. ➤Pro-tip: Remember to bring a photo ID with a copy of your Costco or Groupon confirmation email. Can you shop at Costco without a membership? You can't shop at Costco without a Costco membership. According to Costco, non-Costco members can purchase prescriptions at a Costco pharmacy and if they were given a Costco Shop Card as a gift, they can use that to visit Costco locations. 🛍️ More: Sip and save! Groupon has 80% off 15 bottles of red wine right now Automotive offer: Enjoy up to $31 off on high-quality synthetic blend or synthetic oil changes with this Groupon deal. Enjoy up to $31 off on high-quality synthetic blend or synthetic oil changes with this Groupon deal. Focus on productivity: Get 76% off lifetime access to Microsoft Office 2024 and its powerful suite of apps on Groupon. Get 76% off lifetime access to Microsoft Office 2024 and its powerful suite of apps on Groupon. Movie time! Save 40% on all Regal Movie Cinema Tickets for any movie and save on popcorn and snacks. Save 40% on all Regal Movie Cinema Tickets for any movie and save on popcorn and snacks. Need a break? Prioritize self-care this spring with up to 55% off a Spa Pass Admission at The SPA Club locations. Prioritize self-care this spring with up to 55% off a Spa Pass Admission at The SPA Club locations. Affordable date night: Get up to 73% off two hours of bowling at Bowlero with free shoe rental. Get up to 73% off two hours of bowling at Bowlero with free shoe rental. Car detailing: Get up to 28% of a Complete Supreme Detail service at Dr. Detail. Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
USA Today
21-02-2025
- Business
- USA Today
🌭Costco hot dogs and hot deals: Join today and get a free $20 gift card
🌭Costco hot dogs and hot deals: Join today and get a free $20 gift card Sign up for a one-year Gold Star or Executive Costco membership on Groupon and get a free Costco Shop Card. — Recommendations are independently chosen by our editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission. Everyone loves the Costco $1.50 hot dog deal. But Costco members have access to so much more than that! From exclusive deals on groceries and pantry essentials to gas and travel discounts, the benefits are pretty sweet. Our readers have been loving the current Groupon offer on Costco memberships that includes a free $20 or $40 Costco Shop Card when you sign up for the Gold Star or Executive tier memberships. Learn more below and check out other warehouse club offers at Groupon! How much is a Costco membership? Now through Monday, March 31, you can get an annual Gold Star Costco membership on Groupon for $65 and receive a $20 free digital Costco Shop Card to use on future purchases at any Costco location or online. You can also get the Costco Executive Membership Package for $130 and receive a $40 Costco Shop Card. The special Groupon offer is valid for new members or previous Costco cardholders whose membership has been expired for at least 18 months. If you need to feed a growing family or are constantly restocking your pantry with household essentials, this Costco membership Groupon deal is an easy choice. Sign up for a one-year Costco membership on Groupon Costco Membership Get a $65 Gold Star membership and a free $20 Costco Shop Card on Groupon. Shop Groupon What's the difference between a Costco Gold Star membership and Executive membership? Gold Star Membership: Best for casual shoppers The $65 Gold Star Membership is a better option for individuals or families who shop at Costco on an occasional basis or do not require the additional benefits of the Executive Membership. With a lower annual fee, this membership includes access to Costco's wide range of products and services, making it a cost-effective choice for those who do not have substantial spending at Costco each year. Benefits: Warehouse access Costco Fuel access Free household card Access to Costco services including: auto and home insurance, Costco Auto Program, pet insurance as well as bottled water delivery Get a free $20 Costco Shop Card Executive Membership: Best for frequent shoppers The $130 Executive Membership is ideal for frequent Costco shoppers, offering a 2% annual reward and additional benefits. For those who spend more than $3,000 annually at Costco, the Executive Membership includes major savings through exclusive discounts and promotions. The higher annual fee is counterbalanced by the rewards and benefits, making it a practical option for regular Costco customers. Benefits: All benefits of Gold Star Annual 2% reward on qualified purchases Free household card Access to Costco services with discounts on select services Get a free $40 Costco Shop Card The famous $1.50 Costco hot dog has been available in Costco food courts since 1984. The price has never increased and Costco's CFO assured customers that the price would not be impacted by inflation. How do you claim your Costco membership through Groupon? After you complete your purchase on Groupon's website, you'll receive an email from Costco confirming your membership details. Groupon says to allow up to two hours to receive your confirmation email. Your Costco Shop Card will be emailed within two weeks after sign-up to qualifying members. A physical membership card is not required to shop online or receive your included gift card. To receive a physical membership card, visit the membership counter at your preferred Costco location. ➤Pro-tip: Remember to bring a photo ID with a copy of your Costco or Groupon confirmation email. Can you shop at Costco without a membership? You can't shop at Costco without a Costco membership. According to Costco, non-Costco members can purchase prescriptions at a Costco pharmacy and if they were given a Costco Shop Card as a gift, they can use that to visit Costco locations. 🛍️ More: This is not a drill: We found a BJ's Wholesale Club membership for just $15 Is Groupon legit? While Groupon deals may seem too good to be true, they are totally legit. Groupon helps you save on local activities, travel-friendly experiences and everything in between. From a discounted spa day or painting lesson to a top-rated hotel reservation, Groupon deals can help you enjoy more for less. Shop Groupon deals Check out even more local deals, digital discounts and everything in between on Groupon. Visit Groupon Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.
