Some people will go to great lengths to avoid going to a car dealership that they will simply keep their cars much longer than they should or they may look for a job where a car is provided.
Such is the trauma of negotiating for a new car, that they will do just about anything to avoid this highly unpleasant consumer experience.
You cannot do anything about pushy sales people, but you can turn over the buying experience by joining a car buying club -- also known as an auto buying program -- and outsource the job to someone else.
Such clubs have been popping up all over the place; read on and we will examine whether these programs are right for you.
Basics A car buying club does the dirty work for consumers.
Such clubs will shop for a car based on your purchase criteria including make, model, trim and convenience features.
Some clubs will deliver the car to you, while others simply require you to complete the transaction by going to a dealership, signing a few forms and taking possession of the car.
Essentials Car buying clubs are operated chiefly by the wholesale warehouse companies including BJ's, Costco and Sam's Club.
Your auto club likely operates one and some businesses provide this service as a fringe benefit.
You may already belong to a club and not realize it -- check with your credit union too.
Tools To make it easy for you to find a car, some clubs have you do the bulk of the research before stepping in on your behalf.
For instance, through an online site, a program may make it possible for you to shop for a car through a participating dealer.
That dealer's inventory will appear on screen, allowing you to search for a car.
If you see something that you like, your club will state your discounted price, typically five percent or more off the sticker price, sometimes much more.
Costs Beyond what you pay for a new car, your cost typically includes your buying club's membership and nothing else.
One service is operated by a nonprofit company -- CarBargains is part of Consumers' Checkbook, a company that will call around to at least five car dealerships in your area to get them to bid against each other.
You will pay $200 for something you could do yourself, but for people that hate the process, this type of hand holding can be welcome.
The process can take up to three weeks, so if you are in a hurry this option probably won't work for you.
Bottom Line A car buying club can most certainly do some if not most of the legwork of auto shopping for you.
You won't necessarily get the lowest price, however, as consumers that do their research, get to down negotiating and stick to their guns can save the most.
But, that is the point of these services -- no haggling, no hassles and no anxiety for what some consider a most unpleasant shopping experience.