club discount on new car?

[bhess]

I remember reading a while ago about a club that you can join to buy a car at invoice or close. You have to wait 4 or 6 months right? I'm planning on a 2003 when they arrive so am interested in it. I've been searching the forums all day and can't seem to find the right keyword to find the post. I can't remember the name.
Thanks all

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[Jon [in CT]]

Below is a list of organizations/clubs whose members, six months after enrolling, can purchase Subarus at 2***37; below dealer invoice:

American Association for the Advancement of Science
American Association of Snowboard Instructors
American Canoe Association
American Cross Country Skiers
American Meteorological Society
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
American Veterinary Medical Association
Colorado Tennis Association
Crescent Ski Council (members of 22 ski clubs eligible)
Geological Society of America
International Mountain Bicycling Association
Leave No Trace
Mount Washington Observatory
National Brotherhood of Skiers
National Gardening Association
National Ski Patrol
Pennsylvania Horticultural Society
Professional Ski Instructors of America
Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association
Women's Quest

Make sure to inquire, before joining, whether the Subaru VIP Partner pricing membership benefit is still available.

It costs only $19.95 to become an National Gardening Association supporter and eligible for the VIP Partner pricing.

Here are details about how the program works:

THE SUBARU OF AMERICA (SOA) VIP PARTNERS PROGRAM

Introduction

The VIP Partners Program is a Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) corporate program offering eligible SOA marketing affiliate members the opportunity to purchase or lease new Subaru vehicles at2% below dealer invoice cost.


Eligibility:

Any VIP Partners customer must be an active member of the SOA marketing affiliate for a minimum of 6 consecutive months. The VIP dealer visit authorization forms are issued only to eligible affiliate members and their spouse or domestic partner residing in the same household (address verification required).

The VIP Partners Program offer is non-transferable and does not extend to the member's relatives such as parents, siblings, children, etc.

VIP Partners customers are limited to two (2) new vehicles within a 12-month time period.

The Dealer Visit Authorization form does not obligate the member to purchase or lease a new Subaru; it does, however, inform the dealership that the member is entitled to VIP pricing.


Procedures

To participate in the VIP Program:

1. Marketing affiliate members must receive an approved VIP Dealer Visit Authorization form PRIOR to visiting a participating Subaru dealer.

2. Members must contact their affiliate's membership office to request a dealer visit authorization form.

3. The affiliate membership office will verify the customer's membership status.

4. The member will be asked their name, membership ID number, address, telephone number and choice of participating dealer.

5. The affiliate membership services office employee will log on to the VIP website at www.vip.subaru.com using their affiliate e-mail address. The membership services office will complete the Dealer Visit Authorization form on line and submit it to the VIP Partners Program at SOA for processing.

Upon receipt, SOA will mail the SOA approved Dealer Visit Authorization form directly to the member. As an introduction to the dealer, SOA will also fax a copy of the Dealer Visit Authorization form directly to the dealer. The authorization form is non-transferable and will expire in 45 days from the date of the letter. The member must take the form to the participating dealer indicated on the form. We ask that the member wait until the form is received before visiting Subaru dealers. The form must be presented to the participating participating dealer contact person (Noted on the Dealer Authorization form) upon entry into the dealership.


Dealer Selection

VIP customers select the dealer of their choice, generally based upon customer proximity and convenient servicing. Should the customer not have a dealer preference, SOA will select the closest participating dealer based on the customer's zip code. Customers may visit the Subaru website at www.Subaru.com to locate their closest dealer.

All VIP sales must be conducted by an authorized and participating Subaru dealer. The VIP Program is available in all states except Hawaii.


Pricing

VIP pricing for purchase transactions is based upon 2% below dealer invoice cost for the vehicle and factory installed accessories as invoiced and delivered to the dealer by SOA. This is the non-negotiable base price for all customers with proper VIP Program authorization.

The VIP price is further reduced by all applicable regional dealer or customer incentives or dealer cash, if applicable.

The special pricing under the VIP program cannot be combined with any other Subaru of America, Inc. promotional offers, coupons (such as auto show or internet coupons) or direct mail offers or vouchers (except Subaru MasterCard***174; points).

The VIP Partners customer will be responsible for all applicable federal, state and local taxes and license and municipality registration fees. Any customary dealer administrative, advertising and/or trade fees are additional.


Leasing

Capitalization cost is 2% below dealer invoice cost for the vehicle and factory installed accessories, less any regional customer or dealer incentives or dealer cash, if applicable with current lease program. Dealers cannot mark up the rate. The lease can be structured with a zero down payment for applicants with an acceptable credit history. A security deposit and first month's payment in advance is required.


Accessory Pricing

For accessories that are added to the vehicle at the factory, the price to the VIP customer is 2% below dealer invoice. The dealer will determine the price of any accessories that are added after the vehicle has arrived at the dealership, as the dealer will incur procurement and labor costs to obtain and install such accessories.


Vehicle Availability

All new Subaru models are included in the VIP Program, subject to availability and dealer discretion. At the dealer's election, the Subaru vehicle may be secured from the dealer's new vehicle inventory,located and procured from a nearby dealer's inventory or ordered from SOA. From time-to-time, new models may be temporarily held from the VIP Program until dealer inventories are sufficient to accommodate VIP customers. During these time, dealers are asked to place a sold order.

New Subaru vehicles are those never titled, not previously reported sold and generally have less than 100 miles. Dealer demos and used vehicles are excluded from the VIP Partners Program.


Trade-ins

Generally, most dealers will accept trade-ins. The participating dealer determines the value of the trade. As you are purchasing or leasing a new vehicle at dealer cost, you should expect no more than a wholesale offer for your trade. VIP customers with trades should consider the benefit of selling their trade privately.


Financing

Financing arrangements, if any, will be determined in the usual manner with the dealer and will be subject to the standard credit approval practices at the dealership. From time to time, SOA does offer low rate financing on select Subaru models. VIP customers are eligible to take advantage of any special low rate financing offers in effect at the time of purchase should they be available.


Subaru Added Security

The cost of Subaru Added Security contracts will be determined by the dealership and agreed to jointly by the participating dealer and the VIP Partners customer.


Disclaimers

• The special VIP Partners pricing does not apply to sales made prior to receipt of the approved dealer visit authorization form.
• In order to obtain VIP Partners pricing, the member must follow the procedures as outlined herein by possessing a VIP Partners Authorization Form prior to communicating with a dealership. It is not the intention or purpose of the program to interfere with any pricing negotiations currently underway between a dealership and a customer who has previously visited the dealer without the form. In such situations, the VIP Partners Program does not apply.
• Participation in the VIP program recognizes the relationship between Subaru of America, Inc. and the VIP participant. Inclusion in the program is a privilege and accordingly, at its sole discretion, Subaru of America, Inc. may at any time exclude an individual from the VIP program.
• The VIP Partners Program will remain in effect until such time as modified by SOA.

FAQ


Q - What is the VIP Partners Program?

A - The VIP Partners Program is a Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) corporate program designed to allow eligible members of SOA marketing affiliates the ability to purchase or lease new Subaru vehicles through a dealership at a no-haggle price of 2% below dealer invoice cost.

Q - How does the VIP Program work?

A - To participate in the VIP Program, an eligible member must request a dealer visit authorization form PRIOR to visiting a dealer. To request a form, the eligible member must contact their membership services office. The membership services office will verify the current membership status of the participant and then forward the request to SOA headquarters for processing. Within a few days, the VIP dealer visit authorization form will be mailed directly to the approved member. The form will include the dealership name, telephone number and contact person. A copy of the VIP form will also be faxed to the participating dealer. The form does not obligate the member to purchase a Subaru. The intention of the form is to alert the dealership to the fact that the customer is entitled to VIP pricing.

Q - Who is eligible to participate in the VIP Program?

A - Any VIP customer must be an active member of the SOA marketing affiliate for a minimum of 6 consecutive months. Immediate family members, including spouse and domestic partner residing in the same household are also eligible for VIP pricing, subject to dealer verification of member status and address. The VIP Partners Program offer is non-transferable and does not extend to the member's relatives such as parents, siblings, children, etc.

Q - Are used Subarus also included in the VIP Program?

A - No. The VIP program only applies to new, unused vehicles. New Subaru vehicles are those never titled, not previously reported sold and generally have less than 100 miles.

Q -Can I visit more than one dealer?

A - Under the VIP Program, pricing from dealer to dealer is standardized at 2% below dealer invoice, so there is no need to shop around - just choose the participating dealer that is most convenient for servicing.

Q - Will I be able to purchase accessories at dealer invoice price?

A - For accessories that are factory-installed on the vehicle, the price would be 2% below dealer invoice. The dealer will determine the price of any accessories that are added after the vehicle has arrived at the dealership, as the dealer will incur labor costs to install such accessories.

Q - Can I lease a new Subaru under the VIP program?

A - Yes, the capitalization cost of the vehicle on the lease will be 2% below dealer invoice. Leases can be structured for our VIP customers with an acceptable credit history with a zero down payment. However, a security deposit and first month's payment are required.

Q - Will dealers accept my current vehicle as a trade in under the VIP program?

A - Yes, most dealers will accept trade-ins. The participating dealer determines the value of the trade. Because you are purchasing a new vehicle at dealer cost, you should expect no more than a wholesale offer for your trade. Customers with trades should consider the benefit of selling their trade-in privately.

CONTACT INFORMATION

PHONE: 1-800-VIP-0933 (1-800-847-0933) Hours 8:30 AM to 5 PM Eastern Time
FAX: 856-488-8545
E-MAIL: [email protected]
POSTAL:

Subaru of America, Inc.
c/o VIP Program
P.O. Box 6000
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-6000

08/2006

[Akiata]

I just want to say GOOD reply Jon!

[BlaznAzn]

Will this work for, say if i wanted to buy an STI next year? will i get it at invoice price?

[StonedSubieNewbie]

since im buying through the vip program I can tell you that most likely will not let you buy an STI with these programs.I actually had one dealer refuse to order me A rex with this program,but I found ten other that wouldBtw I went with www.imba.com support your local trails.

[JMotorsprt]

If you don't mind spending a couple hundred over invoice, and you have the membership already, check with Costco:

www.costcoauto.com

Jason

[bhess]

Thank you for the reply Jon. I'm going to check into them.

[cronic]

wow if i only had known.

[naveeny]

The only thing that sucks is that you have to be a member for six months. So be prepared to wait for almost 8 1/2 months to get your if you are not a member yet. 6 1/2 to wait for membership recognition and 2 months for the new car to be delievered.

[Jon [in CT]]

Nothing in the VIP Partnership discount plan requires you to order a car when the one you want is already in stock and sitting on the dealer's lot.

[naveeny]

Well you still have to wait 6 1/2 months. So get your membership now.

[JMotorsprt]

Sounds like a good reason to wait for the 2003 models

Jason

[gr8wheels]

I do not get subaru will give you a SCCA mebership if you buy a wrx but why cant SCCA members buy on this program VIP???

[Chuck H]

Considering that you can walk into most Subaru dealers and buy one off the lot for $200 over invoice, why would you bother dealing with all that hassle and waiting so long over that small amount of savings?

[ScoobyDo3]

The best price I have seen for the WRX is $500 over invoice through the Fleet Manager. How are you getting $200 over invoice?

[WTypeRogerX]

You can also get the Subaru VISA/Mastercard which gives you some % off your purchase based on your card purchases, similar to the GM card which gives like 10% rebate towards a GM vehicle. Good deal but you are stuck to using the rebate for a Subaru - so be sure you are dead set on buying a Subaru for your next car.

[SnowSubaru15]

how much is invoice vs normal sticker price? I am in the process of joining national ski patrol

[WTypeRogerX]

Is the Ski Patrol discount simply invoice price? Someone told me he saved several thousand off sticker through the ski patrol.

[Ibizan]

I didn't bother with any of those programs. Ordered my 04 WRX two weeks ago at cost including all of the options. Threw in heated seats (buying the wagon) and an STi hood scoop. The process is simple, just click here.

I also have the Chase Subaru MasterCard so I'm racking up Subaru Dollars in the process. Happy hunting.

[naveeny]

It depends on what car you want to get. Currently the BAJA is selling below invoice. So you have many options. Just figure out what the market is for each vehicle and look at special incentive programs at Edmunds.com

[Jack]

Originally posted by WTypeRogerX
You can also get the Subaru VISA/Mastercard which gives you some % off your purchase based on your card purchases, similar to the GM card which gives like 10% rebate towards a GM vehicle. Good deal but you are stuck to using the rebate for a Subaru - so be sure you are dead set on buying a Subaru for your next car.

The Subaru Mastercard, through Chase gives you 3%, up to $500 annually in certificates that you can use at a Subie dealer for anything. Service, car, 4-pots (what I bought). Cert's are good for 4 years.

The GM card thing is being discontinued.

I have both.

jack

[Ibizan]

Originally posted by Jack ffr1846
The Subaru Mastercard, through Chase gives you 3%, up to $500 annually in certificates that you can use at a Subie dealer for anything. Service, car, 4-pots (what I bought). Cert's are good for 4 years.

I signed up for the Subaru MasterCard a couple months ago and love it. Each time you rack up $100 Subie Dollars they send you the money in the form of a "check" to be used at any authorized Subie dealer. I'll look into it, but I thought it was good for longer than 4 years (not that it matters...the shelf-life of mine won't make it 4 months).

Citibank also has the Driver's Edge where you can apply the points towards the purchase of a new/used car. Not as good though since it's only 2% of purchases, lasts only a few years, and can't be used towads services, parts, etc. The benefit is that you can apply it towards any make/model of car. I had mine for 3 years before discovering the Subaru MC. When I pick up my 04 WRX next month I'll cash in the $1500 Citidollars I've accumulated

Bottom line (IMHO) is that these credit cards really only work for you if you pay your balances off each month. What's the point of earning 3% in Subie bucks if you end up paying most of that back in interest? I have the balance of my card paid off automatically each month. Works so well that I had my mom added to the card so she uses it instead of cash. At the end of each month she cuts me a check for her total purchases. Every little Subie buck helps

[naveeny]

Citibank also has the Driver's Edge where you can apply the points towards the purchase of a new/used car. Not as good though since it's only 2% of purchases

Its now only 1%. I looked at it once and that was all it was offering.

[Rebellion]

Originally posted by bhess
I remember reading a while ago about a club that you can join to buy a car at invoice or close. You have to wait 4 or 6 months right? I'm planning on a 2003 when they arrive so am interested in it. I've been searching the forums all day and can't seem to find the right keyword to find the post. I can't remember the name.
Thanks all

hell.. for less than invoice you should be able to get a 03 from Mastro in Tampa without being a member of any club.

[team_orion]

I know I am revitalizing an old thread but has anyone bought an STi through the VIP program?