Get access to the same vehicle valuation tool that dealers rely on. With Black Book, you’ll have insider data to accurately assess trade-in and purchase values—empowering you to negotiate the best possible deal.
Car buying services, also known as car buying concierges, have emerged as a turnkey solution for those seeking a hassle-free car buying experience. These services handle everything from vehicle sourcing to negotiation, ensuring you get the best deal without the stress. Want to buy a car without going to the dealership? This is the solution for you. In this guide, we’ll explore what car buying services are, how they work, and the benefits of using them.
What is a Car Buying Service?
A car buying service, or car buying concierge, is a professional service that assists consumers in purchasing a vehicle by handling everything from vehicle sourcing and price negotiation to trade-in assistance, and delivery logistics.The primary goal of car buying services is to simplify the car buying process by leveraging their expertise, industry connections, and negotiation skills.
Whether you’re looking for a new or used car, a car buying concierge can help you find the perfect vehicle while saving you time, money, and eliminating the inconvenience of haggling with salespeople.
Services Offered by Car Buying Concierges
Vehicle Sourcing
Detailed Search: Car buying concierges conduct a comprehensive search based on your needs and wants, including make, model, year, color, and features. They use their industry knowledge and connections to find the best options that match your criteria.
Network Access: These services have access to a wide network of dealerships and private sellers, often finding vehicles that are not yet listed publicly. If you’re looking for a good deal on a rare or in-demand car model, a car buying service could be especially useful.
Price Negotiation
Expert Negotiation: Car buying concierges are skilled negotiators who know how to secure the best possible price. They understand dealer tactics and can navigate the complexities of pricing to ensure you avoid hidden fees and unnecessary add-ons. If you dread negotiating with salespeople, the benefits of a car buying service are compelling.
Savings: By leveraging their real-time market expertise, they can often secure deals that you might not be able to achieve on your own. Car buying concierges typically have behind-the-scenes market tools like CarEdge Insights to gain the upper hand in negotiating on your behalf.
Trade-In Assistance
Evaluation: If you have a vehicle to trade in, car buying concierges can help evaluate its worth and negotiate a fair trade-in value. This ensures you get the best possible price for your old car.
Seamless Process: They handle the trade-in process, making it seamless and convenient.
Coordination: Car buying services manage the logistics of paperwork and vehicle delivery, ensuring your new car is delivered to your doorstep or a convenient location. You can also pick it up at the dealership if you prefer.
How Car Buying Services Work
If your car buying service seems too complicated, they’re doing something wrong. The best in the business are easy to understand and navigate. Here’s what you should expect.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
The process begins with an initial consultation where the concierge understands your needs, preferences, and budget. This is typically done over the phone, via email, or online chat. At this point, you’ll pay for the services rendered. Most car buying services or concierges cost between $1,000 and $3,000, plus shipping if applicable.
Step 2: Search and Shortlisting
Based on your criteria, the concierge conducts a detailed search and shortlists potential vehicles. They provide you with a curated list of options, along with detailed information about each vehicle. Your Concierge should provide current price information, along with their insights on how negotiable the pricing should be.
Step 3: Negotiation and Finalization
Once you’ve selected a vehicle, the concierge negotiates the price on your behalf. They handle all communication with the seller to ensure you get the best deal. No worries – your approval is sought for each and every step. The deal won’t be finalized until you give it the green light.
Step 4: Delivery and Completion
After finalizing the purchase, the concierge coordinates the delivery of the vehicle and handles all paperwork, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Delivery costs vary by distance from the dealership to your home. Shipping costs are typically between $1.00/mile and $1.50/mile.
Benefits of Using a Car Buying Service
Time Savings and Convenience: Car buying services save you the time and effort involved in searching for a vehicle, negotiating prices, and dealing with salespeople. Your concierge handles everything while you sit back and relax.
Expertise in Securing Better Deals: With their industry knowledge and negotiation skills, car buying concierges can secure deals that you might not be able to achieve on your own. This often results in significant savings.
Stress-Free Car Buying Experience: The car buying process can be stressful, especially for those unfamiliar with the market. A concierge service provides peace of mind by handling all aspects of the purchase, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Get Started Today with CarEdge Car Buying Service
Car buying services offer a convenient, efficient, and stress-free way to purchase a vehicle. By leveraging their expertise and industry connections, these services can help you find the perfect car at the best price. If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, consider using a car buying concierge to make the process seamless and enjoyable.
Want to learn more about a leader in the industry? Get started with CarEdge Concierge today to save more and stress less. Never step foot in a dealership again!
When it comes to purchasing a new or used vehicle, car buying services can simplify the process and potentially save you money. In this comparison, we’ll look at two popular services: the Costco Auto Program and CarEdge Concierge, highlighting their key features, customer experiences, and overall value. Which is best car buying service for you? Stay tuned to find out.
Service Overview
Costco Auto Program
Costco Auto Program offers prearranged pricing from Approved Dealers, with the goal of providing a transparent car buying experience for Costco members.
Main Selling Points: Prearranged pricing, approved dealer network, member support, discounts on parts and services.
Target Audience: Costco members looking for a no-haggle car buying experience.
Price: Costco membership: $60 – $120/year
CarEdge Concierge
CarEdge provides a white-glove car buying service, handling everything from vehicle sourcing to negotiation and delivery. For car buyers, this is hands-off and stress-free.
Main Selling Points: Complete management of the buying process, expert negotiation, no hidden fees, transparency, and customer-centric approach. CarEdge is not paid by car dealerships, and emphasizes independence from auto industry influence.
Target Audience: Consumers seeking a personalized, stress-free car buying experience with expert support, without having to visit dealerships.
Price: $999 plus shipping where applicable
Here’s the breakdown of key features of Costco vs. CarEdge.
Common Praises: Transparent pricing, ease of use, member benefits.
Common Complaints: Buyers still go through the dealership experience. Some complaints mention that dealers are not always adhering to program rules, or pushing additional fees. A participation fee is paid by the dealers participating in Costco Auto Program.
Customer Service: Available through Member Advocates for questions and support.
Common Praises: Buyers skip the dealership, effective negotiation, no hidden fees, stress-free process, home delivery.
Common Complaints: Higher upfront cost compared to other services.
Customer Service: Comprehensive support throughout the entire process from a personal CarEdge Concierge.
Pros and Cons
There are some key differences between Costco and CarEdge, so we’ve gathered the key takeaways that differentiate each car buying service.
Costco Pros and Cons
Costco Auto Program
Pros
Cons
Lower program cost
Buyers still negotiate at the dealership
Included with Costco membership
Poor Google Review ratings
Pre-approved dealer network
No personal Concierge or customer advocate
Trade-in assistance
Costco is paid by participating dealers
CarEdge Pros and Cons
CarEdge Concierge
Pros
Cons
Skip the dealership and buy from home
Higher upfront cost
Personalized Concierge included
Shipping costs vary, but free pick-up is an option
Home delivery available
Some specialty models not serviced
Negotiates on your behalf
Independent from car dealers
Trade-in assistance
CarEdge does the work for you
In Conclusion: Which Is Better?
Costco’s Auto Program and CarEdge Concierge are both good options, but their key differences mean that the best car buying service depends on your needs and priorities. For buyers looking to avoid the car dealership hassle altogether, CarEdge is the way to go. CarEdge is also the clear choice for car buyers wanting a personalized customer service experience. Costco on the other hand is a great option for those on a very tight budget, since the program is available to those with a Costco membership.
Ultimately, if budget constraints are your primary concern and you are comfortable with dealership interactions, Costco Auto Program is a solid choice. However, if you seek the most streamlined and potentially cost-saving car buying experience with minimal effort on your part, CarEdge Concierge stands out as the superior car buying service.
Check out these helpful links below to learn more about each car buying service:
You’d think that ‘you get what you pay for’ would ring true for all luxury vehicles, but time and time again, the data shows otherwise. Luxury models can have some of the highest maintenance costs, despite their lavish designs and fine-tuned ride. Before you fall in love with any new car, see the most reliable luxury cars and SUVs in 2024. Your wallet will thank you!
The Most Reliable Luxury Sedans
2024 Lexus IS Hybrid
CR Reliability Score: 79/100
Overall CR Score: 72
2024 Recalls: 0 (as of May 2024)
The 2024 Lexus IS Hybrid is a winner for those who desire fuel efficient luxury with 41 MPG combined. It earned top reliability scores from Consumer Reports in the luxury sedan category.
The 2024 Acura TLX impresses with sporty demeanor and dynamic driving capabilities, powered by 272 horsepower. Tell that to anyone who says ‘it’s just a Honda Accord’. But one Honda attribute that does carry over is reliability.
The Lexus GX continues to be a reliable, luxurious workhorse with its rugged off-road capabilities and plush interior. With the latest refreshed design for 2024, it looks better than ever too. Consumer Reports is currently testing the reliability of the 2024 model.
The 2024 Lexus UX captivates with its bold design and efficient hybrid powertrain, achieving an excellent 42 MPG combined. Its compact size and great fuel economy make it ideal for urban driving.
The 2024 BMW X5 is both luxurious and sporty, for an SUV at least. With 335 horsepower under the hood, merging onto the highway is no challenge. If you’re looking for a reliable luxury SUV, the BMW X5 is up there with the best.
The 2024 Acura RDX delivers a compelling mix of sporty performance and luxury, powered by a 272 horsepower engine that wins over drivers with its engaging handling and high-quality cabin.
The 2024 BMW X3 offers what you’d expect from the German luxury brand: balanced performance and a sophisticated interior. With a starting price of $47,895, this is a surprisingly affordable BMW SUV.
The 2024 Lexus RZ starts at around $55,000 and offers a driving range of approximately 220-250 miles on a full charge. It includes the luxury features you’d expect from Lexus, including the new and improved Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The RZ supports DC fast charging, enabling an 10 – 80% charge in about 30 minutes.
The 2024 BMW i4 offers up to 300 miles of range, with the rapid acceleration you’d expect from a BMW EV. How quick are we talking? The M50 variant zips from 0-60 mph in about 3.7 seconds. The 2024 i4’s MSRP starts at $53,195 with destination fees.
The 2024 BMW iX offers a driving range of up to 324 miles. At a DC fast charger, the iX can charge from 10-80% in about 35 minutes. Combining luxury, high performance, and solid reliability, the iX is one of the best premium electric SUVs.
Tired of talking to salespeople, haggling, and feeling ripped off? Our CarEdge team of experts can do it all for you, from getting you the best price to home delivery. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the most-trusted car buying service out there!
There’s a massive transition happening before our eyes, but it’s one that is getting harder to detect by the day: the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). We’re taking a close look at a rapid change that’s already transforming the auto industry: cars with AI. In 2024, three leaders are taking bold steps to put AI in cars: Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen. Here’s how the big three are putting machine learning into the driver’s seat.
Tesla: Pioneering Autonomous Driving
Tesla has been a household name in the world of electric vehicles and autonomous driving since first launching Full Self-Driving (FSD) in 2020. The company’s Autopilot system is one of the most advanced driver assistance systems available today. Utilizing NVIDIA-powered AI, Tesla’s FSD technology aims to enable fully autonomous driving, allowing cars to navigate complex environments with minimal human intervention.
In 2024, all Tesla models include Autopilot, which features limited AI-powered autonomous driving, such as interstate cruising and lane changes. Tesla’s Full-Self Driving package is an $8,000 add-on, and includes the following capabilities:
Navigate on Autopilot
Auto Lane Change
Autopark
Summon
Smart Summon
Autosteer on city streets
Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control
Tesla continues to lead the pack by constantly updating its AI capabilities through over-the-air software updates, enhancing everything from traffic sign recognition to full autonomous navigation. But something has changed in recent years: Tesla is no longer alone in the automotive AI space.
Here’s a look at the most serious competition today.
Mercedes-Benz: A Leader in Automotive AI
Mercedes-Benz is making significant strides in integrating AI into its vehicles. In fact, in 2023, Mercedes-Benz became the first automaker to gain U.S. approval for Level 3 autonomous driving. Yes, they even beat Tesla to the historic milestone.
The Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot system represents the world’s first Level 3 system certified by the Society of Automotive Engineers, or SAE. Level 3 autonomous driving systems can manage most aspects of driving, including monitoring the environment, without human intervention. These are hands-off driving systems on certain roads.
Drive Pilot is powered by a spectrum of sensors, from LiDAR to rear window cameras and microphones. Who’s a major partner in Mercedes’ AI development? You guessed it: NVIDIA.
AI-Powered Multimedia
It’s not just autonomous driving that Mercedes is after. Now, Mercedes is bringing AI into infotainment and multimedia in the cabin. At the heart of the automaker’s AI innovation is the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) Virtual Assistant. Debuting at CES 2024, this assistant leverages generative AI to deliver a highly personalized driving experience. The new system, integrated with the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), uses advanced 3D graphics powered by the Unity game engine, making the interactions more natural and visually engaging.
Mercedes-Benz has also integrated ChatGPT into its vehicles, enhancing the capabilities of the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant. This integration allows for more natural and expansive conversations, handling a broader range of topics and providing more natural language interactions. In other words, Mercedes doesn’t want your voice assistant to sound like a GPS giving navigation instructions.
But it’s not just luxury cars getting into artificial intelligence. Another German automaker is now producing new cars with AI at a much lower price point.
Volkswagen Brings ChatGPT to Cars
Volkswagen is set to integrate OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its vehicles, starting from the second quarter of 2024. This integration, announced at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, marks Volkswagen as the first mainstream traditional automaker to standardize ChatGPT across a broad range of models.
ChatGPT is an advanced AI language model developed by OpenAI that generates human-like text based on the input it receives. Powered by NVIDIA hardware, it utilizes deep learning techniques to understand and respond to a wide range of queries, providing accurate and contextually relevant information. Anyone can try ChatGPT for free at chat.openai.com.
The AI-based chatbot will be embedded within Volkswagen’s IDA voice assistant, which is activated by saying “Hello IDA” at any time. The ChatGPT integration will be available in various models, including the electric ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, ID.7, as well as the upcoming Tiguan, Passat, and Golf. The Volkswagen ID.4 is on sale today.
Volkswagen says that ChatGPT will enhance the functionality of the IDA voice assistant by enabling more natural conversations. Users will be able to ask a wide range of questions, from navigation assistance and climate control to general questions. Want to know about the history of the town you happen to be driving through? Soon, you’ll be able to ask your Volkswagen.
ChatGPT does not access vehicle data, and all interactions are securely deleted after processing. AI and personal privacy are growing concerns for more drivers as cameras and microphones become more commonplace inside the cabin.
Cars with AI Are Already Here
Like it or not, more automakers are bringing AI to new cars in 2024 and beyond. Privacy concerns are not to be overlooked, but drivers have much to gain from newfound AI superpowers. From improving vehicle safety through predictive analytics to offering seamless and intuitive in-car experiences, the potential is limitless. Companies like Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen are at the forefront of this revolution, setting new standards for what we can expect from our vehicles.
In a time of strange AI art, artificial song generators, and unsettling deep fakes, it’s comforting to see the positive side of artificial intelligence in our lives. AI is making our cars smarter, our drives safer, and our journeys more enjoyable.
One thing is certain: the future is getting weird!
The best new car deals are changing in 2024. We spoke to CarEdge’s Ray Shefska about which new cars and trucks are most negotiable today. With over 40 years of experience in the business and a constant pulse on the market, Ray knows the ins and outs of car buying. That includes where the best deals can be had. These are the most negotiable new cars for summer 2024, based on the latest market data from CarEdge Insights.
The Most Negotiable New Cars
#1: Electric Vehicles
You’ve probably heard by now that automakers are struggling to sell EVs. While EV sales continue to climb, it’s true that the rate of adoption has slowed. Gone is the rapid rise in popularity that early adopters brought to the market. Now, we’re well into the slow and steady process of convincing the other 90% of the car market that EVs are worth trying out.
Here’s how EV inventory plays out as we head into summer 2024. Keep in mind that the market average is 72 days of supply. You can learn more about this valuable car market measure here.
If you’re EV-curious, this oversupply is GREAT news. Manufacturers and dealers alike have tens of thousands of electric vehicles to sell, and are offering big incentives to entice buyers.
Here are just a few of the standout deals this summer:
Finance with 0% APR (all trims) for 60 months + $7,500 customer cash until June 3, 2024. Lease the IONIQ 5 SE for $299/month for 24 months with $3,499 due.
Finance with 0% APR for 60 months + $9,000 cash. Lease the EV6 RWD Wind for $249/month for 24 months with $3,999 due.
Base Price: $42,600 – $61,600
Range: 252 – 310 miles
Why no Tesla models on this list? Simply put, Tesla models are not negotiable. With direct-to-consumer sales, the price is the price. However, there’s great news for Tesla fans. Tesla is offering their best offer ever for the Model Y. Right now, Tesla is offering 0.99% APR for up to 72 months.
This comes as Model Y prices have fallen to their lowest point ever. In 2024, the popular Model Y Long Range AWD starts at $47,990. The Rear-Wheel Drive Model Y starts at $44,990. Learn more about these Tesla offers.
#2 Sedans
Sedans have officially fallen out of favor in America. This is not news to you if you’ve driven anywhere in the States in the past decade. However, manufacturers are still producing several great sedans that promise great fuel economy and low prices.
Last year, these were the 5 best-selling sedans in America:
Toyota Camry
Toyota Corolla
Honda Accord
Honda Civic
Hyundai Elantra
Although the Camry and Corolla remain hot sellers with below-average negotiability, several popular and well-reviewed sedans have a glut of dealership inventory in 2024. This makes these models especially negotiable today:
CarEdge co-founder Ray Shefska highlighted full-sized trucks as some of the most negotiable new cars in 2024. It’s now common to see advertised discounts below MSRP for these models. Truck inventory has fallen as dealers have finally sold off most of their 2023 inventory, but trucks are still in oversupply. Here are the best truck deals this month:
1.9% APR + $3,250 cash allowance + NO payments for 90 days.
You can negotiate the best deal on the leftovers from last year, however, In fact, there are still 18,000 brand-new 2023 F-150s on dealer lots, and 2,900 new 2023 Ram 1500s. If you’re equipped with expert market insights, these are the most negotiable new trucks today. But hurry, they won’t be there for long! No truck goes unsold, and we’re already halfway through 2024.
States eligibile for below invoice pricing and 100% free delivery:
Alabama, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Delaware, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
What if I don’t live in these states? If you're outside these areas, don't worry! We're committed to making sure everyone can enjoy our deals. Although the delivery fee will not be waived, you can still purchase from CarEdge and either pay for shipping or coordinate pickup at a participating dealer.
Getting Started!
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FAQ
How much does it cost?
Our concierge service costs $999 plus an optional shipping fee (based on distance or pick-up).
To get started, pay the one-time payment of $999 and a CarEdge concierge will start by negotiating the vehicles in your favorites.
Why should you let a concierge do the work?
Get the best deal
Our team of concierges and industry experts with 75+ years of combined experience with access to tools and data to leverage the best deal possible.
Convenience
Gone are the days of looking for a car and stepping into the dealership spending hours and hours of head banging only to get smooth talked into a higher price.
Expert assistance
We answer all questions you may have regarding the buying process, what the right car is, the deal itself, and more!
Who are the concierges?
Transparent when others aren't
Our commitment to transparency and honesty ensures that you make informed decisions, while our years of experience guarantee that we will be able to secure the best deal for you.
When you win, we win
We work for you, not the dealership, ensuring your interests are always our top priority.
Buying a car just got a whole lot easier.
What happens next?
We’ll coach you on how to get dealers competing to get the best price
You’ll get instant access to our car buying checklists, guides, and market insights
What’s included in my car buying toolkit?
Dealer Invoice Price
Access the Dealer’s Invoice Price to negotiate an even better car deal.
Target Discount
A recommendation of for how much you should negotiate towards.
Negotiation Guide
Know exactly what you need to say to dealers to secure the best deal.
Exclusive Data
Info about your car such as cost of ownership, sales data, and more!
