Ford Motor Company shows appreciation for its employees, retirees, and their families through the New Vehicle Purchase Program, also known as the AZ-Plan. This program offers eligible individuals the opportunity to purchase or lease new Ford and Lincoln vehicles at significant savings. If you’re considering leveraging this fantastic benefit and are particularly interested in leasing, you might be wondering, “how long can I program a car lease” through this program? This guide will delve into the details of leasing under the Ford AZ-Plan, ensuring you have all the information you need.
Understanding the Ford AZ-Plan: Overview
The Ford AZ-Plan is a privilege extended to Ford employees (A-Plan), retirees/surviving spouses (Z-Plan), and their eligible family members. It allows access to discounted pricing on new Ford Motor Company vehicles. This program is designed to reward loyalty and encourage the Ford family to drive Ford products.
Who is Eligible for the Ford Employee Car Program?
Eligibility for the AZ-Plan is broad, covering various categories within the Ford family:
- Employees: Active full-time and regular part-time hourly and salaried employees from their hire date.
- Retirees: Hourly and salaried retirees receiving benefits, including surviving spouses.
- Family Members: Spouses, parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings (including in-laws and step-relations), and same-sex domestic partners of eligible employees.
- Others: Employees of approved subsidiaries and affiliated organizations.
For a comprehensive list, refer to section 2 of the original document, “Program Descriptions and Eligibility“.
Leasing vs. Buying with the AZ-Plan
The AZ-Plan offers flexibility, allowing you to either purchase or lease a new vehicle. Both options come with the benefit of discounted pricing. When deciding between leasing and buying, consider your personal circumstances and preferences:
- Leasing: Typically involves lower monthly payments and the option to drive a new car more frequently. At the end of the lease term, you return the vehicle.
- Buying: Leads to vehicle ownership, allowing you to build equity and customize your vehicle.
The AZ-Plan program supports both choices, ensuring you can select the option that best suits your needs.
How Long Can You Lease a Car? Lease Terms and Duration
While the AZ-Plan provides access to favorable lease terms through the “Red Carpet Lease Option,” it’s important to understand that the program itself doesn’t dictate a fixed lease duration. Lease terms are generally flexible and determined by Ford Credit, similar to retail leases.
Key aspects to consider regarding lease duration within the AZ-Plan:
- Standard Lease Terms: Ford Credit typically offers various lease terms, commonly ranging from 24 to 39 months. The availability of specific terms can depend on the vehicle model and current promotions.
- Negotiating Lease Terms: While the AZ-Plan sets the price of the vehicle, lease terms like duration and mileage allowances can still be discussed with the dealership’s finance department.
- Red Carpet Lease Option: The AZ-Plan mentions the “Red Carpet Lease Option,” which implies that eligible customers receive the same favorable lease programs available to retail customers, but with the added benefit of the AZ-Plan discounted vehicle price. This enhances the value of the lease.
Factors Influencing Lease Duration:
- Personal Needs: Consider how long you typically like to keep a car. If you prefer driving a new car every few years, leasing with a shorter term might be ideal.
- Budget: Shorter lease terms might have slightly higher monthly payments compared to longer terms for the same vehicle, but they also mean you’ll reach the end of the lease sooner.
- Vehicle Depreciation: Leasing can be advantageous for vehicles that depreciate quickly, as you’re only paying for the vehicle’s depreciation during the lease term, plus interest and fees.
Finding Specific Lease Term Information:
To get precise information on available lease terms for a specific vehicle under the AZ-Plan:
- Visit a Participating Dealer: The most direct way is to visit an authorized Ford or Lincoln dealership and speak to a sales consultant familiar with the AZ-Plan.
- Ford Credit Website: Explore www.fordcredit.com for general lease information and potentially lease term estimators, though specific AZ-Plan pricing will need to be obtained from the dealer.
- MyPlan Website: While www.myplan.ford.com is primarily for PIN generation and program details, it may link to resources with vehicle pricing and incentive information that could indirectly reference lease offers.
Eligible Vehicles for Lease Under the AZ-Plan
Most new Ford and Lincoln vehicles are eligible for purchase or lease under the AZ-Plan. However, some exclusions apply.
Generally Eligible:
- Current and prior model year Ford and Lincoln vehicles sold in the United States.
- Dealer demonstrator units (no mileage restriction).
Generally Ineligible:
- Certain commercial or specialty vehicles.
- “Low-supply” vehicles as defined by Ford (check the Ineligible Products list for specifics).
- Used vehicles.
Always confirm vehicle eligibility with your dealer.
Key Program Policies Relevant to Leasing
Several policies within the AZ-Plan are particularly relevant to leasing:
- Customer Obligations: Understand the rules against PIN misuse and the prohibition of referral fees beyond nominal gifts.
- Dealership Obligations: Participating dealerships must adhere to program guidelines, including the use of the AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement.
- Financing and Insurance: Lease financing can be obtained from any source, including Ford Credit. Lessees are required to maintain liability and collision insurance with specified minimum coverage – your dealer can provide these details.
- Titling and Registration: Leased vehicles are titled to Ford Credit but must be registered to the AZ-Plan eligible individual and cannot be for commercial use.
- Vehicle Retention: Vehicles must be retained for at least six months from the lease date.
Review section 5 of the original document, “Program Policies “, for a complete understanding of all rules and regulations.
Pricing and Incentives for Leases
The AZ-Plan provides a discounted price on the vehicle, which forms the basis for calculating your lease payments.
- AZ-Plan Price: This is based on the dealer invoice, as detailed in section 6, “Pricing and Incentives “. It’s the “AZ-Plan” price shown on the factory invoice.
- Incentives and Rebates: AZ-Plan customers are generally eligible for public incentives and rebates, which can further reduce your lease payments.
- Lease-End Value (Residual Value): This is a crucial factor in leasing. It’s the predicted value of the vehicle at the end of the lease term. A higher residual value generally translates to lower monthly payments. Ford Credit sets the residual value.
Lease Process and Documentation
The process for leasing under the AZ-Plan is similar to purchasing:
- Obtain a PIN: Generate a Personal Identification Number (PIN) through www.myplan.ford.com.
- Visit a Dealership: Inform the dealer you are an AZ-Plan customer and provide your PIN and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
- Vehicle Selection and Lease Negotiation: Choose your vehicle and discuss lease terms, mileage options, and any trade-in.
- Review and Sign Documentation: Carefully review the AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement and lease contract. Ensure all discounts and agreed-upon terms are accurately reflected.
Refer to section 7, “Process and Documentation “, for detailed steps.
FAQs About Leasing with the AZ-Plan
Q: Can I lease a car using the AZ-Plan?
A: Yes, leasing is a valid option under the Ford AZ-Plan.
Q: Are lease terms different under the AZ-Plan?
A: The AZ-Plan primarily impacts the vehicle price. Lease terms (duration, mileage) are generally standard Ford Credit offerings, but the discounted vehicle price enhances the overall lease value.
Q: How do I find out the lease terms for a specific model?
A: Consult a participating Ford or Lincoln dealer, or explore Ford Credit resources.
Q: Is the “Red Carpet Lease Option” still available?
A: The document refers to it, implying it is part of the AZ-Plan lease offering. Confirm with your dealer for the most current information.
For more FAQs, see section 8 of the original document, “FAQs “.
Contact Information for Lease Program Inquiries
For specific questions about leasing through the Ford AZ-Plan, or for clarification on lease terms and available durations, reach out to:
- Your Local Ford or Lincoln Dealership: They are your primary point of contact for vehicle-specific lease details and AZ-Plan application.
- Ford Motor Company Customer Service: Use the contact details in section 9, “Contact Information “, for general program inquiries.
- Ford Credit: www.fordcredit.com for financing and lease-related questions.
By understanding the nuances of leasing within the Ford AZ-Plan, particularly regarding lease duration and available terms, you can make an informed decision and maximize the benefits of this valuable program. Remember to always verify details with a participating dealer to ensure you have the most up-to-date and vehicle-specific information.
