Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Costco Auto Programme’s FAQ section. If you are unable to find an answer to your question, please call FREEPHONE 0800 051 8941. Our call-center staff will be happy to assist you.
Auto Programme Basics
Why should I use Costco Auto Programme?
When you use Costco Auto Programme, you have a full complement of industry professionals standing behind you.
From the first phone call, our dedicated programme specialists in the call center guide you through the process to help you find a participating dealer near you that offers prearranged member-only pricing and superior service.
Our field staff selects participating dealers and then trains and certifies Authorised Dealer Contacts on our programme processes so they can assist Costco members. These contacts offer knowledgeable and professional service to ensure your car-buying visit is comfortable and easy, with no pressure or obligation to purchase. Additionally, each participating dealer offers prearranged member-only pricing to ensure value and a haggle-free experience. Plus, our Competitive Shop staff surveys dealers every month to keep pricing up-to-date and competitive.
Unlike any level of customer service in the industry, we have a Member Advocacy Group committed to helping you every step of the way – before you buy, during the process or after the purchase – to ensure complete member satisfaction. This type of support is member advocacy at its best.
At Costco Auto Programme, we work for you.
Where does Costco Auto Programme operate?
Costco Auto Programme has assembled a network of dealers in the U.K., U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Does Costco Auto Programme offer all makes and models?
In most cases, yes. However, some dealers may be unable to meet our strict criteria for pricing and service.
Contacting/Visiting a Dealer
Can I go straight to the participating dealer, or do I need to go through Costco Auto Programme?
If you wish to purchase or lease a vehicle through Costco Auto Programme, you must use our website or call center to locate a participating dealer. This ensures you receive excellent value and service and prevents you from visiting a dealer that cannot provide prearranged member-only pricing.
Do I have to wait for the dealer to call me to make an appointment?
For your convenience, you may call the Authorised Dealer Contact at any time. After you locate a participating dealer, you will be given the name and phone number of the Authorised Dealer Contact. Speak only with the Authorised Contacts. They are the only people authorised to give you your exclusive prearranged Costco member-only price.
Do I have to use the Authorised Dealer Contact, or can I talk to any salesperson at the dealer?
Authorised Dealer Contacts are personally trained and certified to ensure you receive the attention, prearranged member-only price and great customer service afforded to all Costco members.
Pricing Information
Why doesn’t Costco Auto Programme tell me the vehicle price before I visit the dealer?
The exact price of the vehicle is determined by the particular vehicle you select. Differences in optional equipment and accessories will affect the sale price. After you have selected a specific vehicle at the dealer you are shown Costco Member-Only Price Sheet, which clearly breaks down the vehicle price, savings and any additional rebates or costs. Costco Auto Programme also suggests you ask to view the RRP (List Price) for the vehicle you select to see your savings.
If you have any questions about the price the dealer has given you, our Member Advocacy Group can review the offer for you.
What is the RRP or List Price?
It is the amount the manufacturer suggests the dealer should charge for the vehicle.
Vehicle Selection
If I submit a vehicle request, am I obligated to purchase from the participating dealer?
No. Although most members do purchase vehicles because of the programme’s exceptional value, you are not required to take delivery or to promise to take delivery in order to get the pricing information. To be sure you receive Costco quality pricing and service, speak only with the Authorised Contact at the dealer to which you were referred.
What if the dealer doesn’t have the vehicle I want?
Our dealers will explain the options available to you when you are at the dealer. If an acceptable vehicle is not available from dealer inventory, the dealer may offer to trade from another dealer or factory-order one for you. Trading with another dealer may incur an additional charge, which will depend on the individual circumstances. The dealer will advise you of the charge before you commit to the trade.
Can I factory order my car?
In most cases, yes. The dealer will explain the process to you when you select a vehicle. Please note that manufacturers' processes vary. Regardless of the brand, you typically are entitled to any rebate or special rate financing that is available on the day of delivery. If the manufacturer changes the offer between the dates of order and delivery you receive what is available the day of delivery.
Trade-Ins
Can I trade in my vehicle through the programme?
Yes. When you visit the participating dealer, speak with the Authorised Dealer Contact about trading in your vehicle.
How is my trade-in figured into the deal?
The Authorised Dealer Contact will discuss with you how much the dealer will be willing to give you for your trade. You can accept it or sell the vehicle on your own. If you decide to trade, the value of your trade-in is applied to your purchase in the manner required by law in your area.
Dealer Experience
What should I do if I have questions about my dealer experience?
Costco Auto Programme goes to great lengths to ensure our members have a no-haggle, no-hassle car-buying experience. Our Member Advocacy Group was created to assist you whenever you have a question or concern with one of our participating dealers or any aspect of your vehicle purchase. Member advocates can be reached Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Member Satisfaction Survey
Where can I find a member satisfaction survey?
Surveys are typically sent to members within 3-5 business days of a dealer visit and/or after purchasing a vehicle. If you contacted our Call Center to locate a dealer, your survey will be administered over the phone by one of our Member Advocates. If you used our website to find a dealer, your survey will be sent to the email address you provided.
Questions? Contact us at 0800 051 8941.