Navigating the world of car buying can often feel like deciphering a complex code. Many buyers look for programs that promise straightforward pricing and a less stressful experience. One such option that frequently surfaces in discussions is manufacturer-backed purchase programs, and in this review, I’ll share my experience, somewhat relevant to an Aaa Car Purchase Program Review, through the lens of the Ford X-Plan. While not directly through AAA, my experience with Ford’s X-Plan offers valuable insights into these types of programs and how to potentially leverage them – or even surpass them – in your car buying journey.
My story begins a few years ago when I was in the market for a fuel-efficient compact car. Being eligible for Ford’s X-Plan, which is often touted as a hassle-free way to purchase a vehicle at a pre-negotiated price, I naturally gravitated towards a Ford Focus. Adding to the appeal, Ford was offering a significant incentive on top of the X-Plan pricing as it was the end of the model year. It seemed like the perfect, straightforward car buying scenario.
I walked into the dealership, X-Plan eligibility in hand, expecting a smooth, no-haggle transaction. The reality, however, took a slightly different turn, highlighting the nuances of car buying programs and the importance of being prepared to negotiate, even when you think you have a set price.
The Dealership Experience: More Than Just the Program Price
My initial plan hit a snag when the exact Ford Focus configuration I wanted wasn’t available at the dealership. Immediately, the salesperson attempted to steer me towards a higher trim model, loaded with features I didn’t need or particularly want. This is a common tactic, and it’s crucial to remain focused on your needs and budget.
Naturally, I inquired about the possibility of a dealer trade to locate the specific vehicle I was after. This is where the “salesmanship” really began. The salesperson engaged in a theatrical display of making phone calls, supposedly to other dealerships, in search of my desired car. While I can’t definitively say he wasn’t making calls, the performance felt more like a show than genuine effort. Ultimately, he returned with the disappointing news that no such vehicle was available.
At this point, feeling like my time was being wasted, I thanked him for his “efforts” and prepared to leave. It was then that the classic dealership escalation tactic unfolded. He asked me to wait, and shortly returned with another figure – the sales manager.
The sales manager reiterated the “limited inventory” line, emphasizing that end-of-year models were scarce and I might need to settle for what was on the lot. When I explained that the on-lot vehicles didn’t meet my requirements due to unwanted extra features, and I intended to explore other dealerships, he deployed the age-old question: “What can I do to get you into that car today?”
Turning the Tables: Negotiating Beyond the Program
Frankly, I was ready to walk away from this dealership entirely. However, on a whim, I decided to present a somewhat audacious offer, just to see their reaction. “Well,” I said, “if you give me the higher trim car at the X-Plan price of the base model I originally wanted, and you beat the interest rate I’m already pre-approved for at my bank, then we have a deal.”
To my considerable surprise, the sales manager agreed almost instantly!
The long story shortened, I drove away with a vehicle that was indeed priced even better than the X-Plan for the base model I had initially considered. While it wasn’t my primary goal to beat the X-Plan price, it demonstrated that even programs designed for set pricing are not necessarily the absolute lowest price you can achieve. They did manage to add VIN etching, a minor upcharge I missed in the contract paperwork – a lesson learned on my part to scrutinize every detail.
X-Plan Pricing: A Good Starting Point, Not the Finish Line
Reflecting on this experience, my perspective on programs like the Ford X-Plan, and by extension, thinking about an AAA car purchase program review, is that they offer a solid foundation – typically around invoice price minus applicable rebates. However, they shouldn’t be seen as the ceiling of potential savings. With strategic negotiation and a willingness to walk away, you can often secure an even more favorable deal.
The dealership experience itself reinforced the classic “car salesman” stereotypes. The feigned phone calls were amusingly transparent, and the VIN etching, while ultimately my oversight, was a classic add-on tactic. Despite these aspects, the final price was undeniably good.
Interestingly, I initially considered using their service department due to the coupons they provided for free oil changes and tire rotations. However, the service quality proved to be subpar (a story for another time), leading me to switch to another dealership with a much better service experience. This highlights that dealership quality extends beyond just the sales process. For my next Ford purchase, I’m inclined to start with the dealership that provided better service.
Key Takeaways Regarding Purchase Programs like the X-Plan (and Considerations for an AAA Car Purchase Program Review):
- No Doc Fees: Ford X-Plan explicitly states that dealerships cannot charge any documentation fees. This is a significant benefit to be aware of and insist upon.
- Destination Charge Included: The X-Plan price already incorporates the destination charge. Dealerships should not attempt to add this back into the price.
- Negotiation is Still Possible: Even with pre-set pricing programs, negotiation is not off the table. Be prepared to negotiate and know your walk-away price.
- Beyond Price: Consider the Dealership Experience: A good purchase price is important, but consider the overall dealership experience, including service quality, for long-term satisfaction.
In conclusion, while this wasn’t a direct AAA car purchase program review, my Ford X-Plan experience offers valuable lessons applicable to any manufacturer-backed or affiliated car buying program. These programs can provide a convenient starting point and often offer fair pricing. However, don’t be afraid to negotiate, do your research, and be prepared to walk away – you might just drive away with an even better deal than you initially thought possible.
