Costco isn’t just known for bulk groceries and warehouse prices — its Costco Auto Program gives members access to special pricing and services when buying or leasing cars.
It’s designed to take the stress out of vehicle shopping by offering prearranged pricing, dealer connections, and additional member savings that many buyers find helpful, especially in a complex auto market.
What Is the Costco Auto Program?
The Costco Auto Program is a member‑only vehicle buying service available to current Costco members. It does not sell cars directly. Instead, it connects members with Approved Dealers across the U.S. who have agreed to offer special pricing and a streamlined experience:
- Prearranged pricing: Costco negotiates prices with dealers ahead of time so members get a low, no‑haggle price sheet to work from.
- Approved Dealers: Only dealers who meet Costco’s standards participate, and their salespeople are trained to provide transparent pricing for members.
- Member support: Costco provides advocates to help answer questions and walk members through the process.
In essence, it’s meant to make buying a new or used car less intimidating and—hopefully—less expensive than traditional negotiations while you’re at the dealership.
How the Buying Process Works
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the Costco car buying experience:
- Start Online: You begin by visiting the Costco Auto Program website and entering your ZIP code, vehicle preferences (make, model, year), and contact info.
- Get Connected: Costco sends your information to a local participating dealer who contacts you with details.
- Member‑Only Price Sheet: At the dealer, you’re shown the pre‑negotiated Costco price sheet that includes all agreed pricing and available manufacturer incentives.
- Test Drive & Decision: You can test drive, inspect the car, and decide whether to buy or lease — without obligation.
- Finance as You Choose: Financing isn’t directly provided by Costco — you can use dealer financing, your bank, or any lender you prefer.
The key difference here is that you start with a directionally strong price, rather than haggling from scratch.
What You Can Buy Through Costco Cars
New Vehicles
Members can buy or lease a wide variety of new cars, trucks, SUVs and even some EVs through the program. Manufacturers often offer additional incentives that you can combine with Costco’s prearranged pricing.
Pre‑Owned & Certified Used Cars
Certified pre‑owned vehicles (CPO) and inspected used cars are also part of the Auto Program. They’re typically assessed for quality and may come with warranty coverage — although the way pricing is determined can be less standardized than for new cars.
Other Vehicle Types
Some promotional offers — including deals on high‑end vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette in the past — are also extended via this program, especially during limited‑time manufacturer partnerships.
Member Benefits Beyond Purchase
The value doesn’t end with the sale:
- Parts and Service Discounts: Costco members can get about 15% off parts, services and accessories at participating service centers (up to a capped amount per visit).
- Manufacturer Incentives: You can stack manufacturer rebates or offers on top of Costco’s pricing, potentially increasing your savings.
These benefits help lower ownership costs and provide some continuity after the purchase.
Pros of Using Costco for Cars
Many buyers like the program because:
- No haggle pricing: Your price is already negotiated so there’s less stress and conflict at the dealership.
- Transparent costs: Members often see clearer pricing, with manufacturer incentives included.
- Reduced headache: The process cuts out some friction in traditional car buying.
User reviews sometimes highlight that the program can also be used as a negotiation tool even if you don’t use the Costco‑assigned dealer — because you already have a baseline price.
Limitations & Things to Know
However, some real‑world experiences and expert reviews note a few limitations:
- Dealer availability varies: Not all dealerships participate, so in some areas your choices may be limited.
- Savings differ by market: The actual benefit you receive depends on location, the vehicle you choose, and how aggressively dealers participate.
- Inventory doesn’t always match: In tight markets with limited stock, you may not find the exact vehicle you want at a participating dealer.
It’s not a guaranteed discount generator, and sometimes individual negotiation outside the program can get similar or better deals — but the simplicity and no‑haggle structure is a major draw for many people.
Expert Tips for Costco Cars
Here are a few practical notes before you jump in:
- Check availability first: Use the Costco Auto site to see what vehicles are available in your area.
- Compare prices: Even with Costco’s pricing, it’s wise to compare to local dealer deals and incentives.
- Know the dealer’s role: Costco connects you with dealers — not all pricing or inventory is under Costco’s control.
Is It Worth It?
Overall, many Costco members consider the Auto Program a helpful tool in car buying — especially if you want to avoid negotiating price and prefer a more guided experience. The program’s value often comes from transparent, prearranged pricing and member support, rather than Costco acting as the seller itself.
If you’re already a Costco member and you’re shopping for a car, truck, SUV, EV, or certified used vehicle, it’s worth exploring the Auto Program as part of your research. Just be sure to consider dealer stock, local pricing, and whether the prearranged offer matches your expectations.