USAA shut down its popular car buying service in 2022. People who counted on it to find vehicles suddenly needed new ways to shop.
This change sparked more interest in other programs and services that help drivers buy cars with less hassle. Several organizations stepped in with solutions for all kinds of buyers. And car buying advocates became more prominent.
If you’re looking for help buying a car now, you’ve got options like Your Car Buying Advocate, Navy Federal Car Buying Service, Costco Auto Program or one of the many brokers out there. Each one brings something different to the table, so buyers can pick what fits them best.
Key Takeaways
- Major car buying services and brokers fill the gap left by USAA’s exit.
- Leading services each provide different benefits for buyers.
- Car buying advocates make finding a vehicle easier.
#1 Your Car Buying Advocate
Your Car Buying Advocate offers a hands-on car concierge service that puts customers in the drivers seat. An advocate listens to what you need, finds vehicles that fit, and jumps into negotiations for you by making dealerships compete. Each individual advocate is an owner of a YCBA franchise. When you work with them, you work with an owner who is fully vested in making sure your car buying experience is the best.
Many people find YCBA’s approach a stress-free buying experience and a real time-saver compared to wandering around dealerships or trying to get real proposals from dealers who refuse to give numbers over the phone.
Key Benefits and Details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Personalized Service | One-on-one support and white glove service |
| Negotiation | Advocate negotiates directly for the buyer |
| Independence | No ties to dealerships or brands |
| Home Delivery | Available in most cases |
| Customer Reviews | 5-star ratings on Google |
Keep in Mind:
- The $899 fee covers the full service, although they do offer hourly car buying consulting
- Service is limited in Alaska or Hawaii where dealer competition is limited
- They focus on new, CPA or newer preowned vehicles; not rare collector cars, barn finds or preowned vehicles under 5K
People often compare Your Car Buying Advocate to services like TrueCar. However, the TrueCar service does not advocate for the buyer. Dealers pay TrueCar for their customers and buyers still have to finalize the deal at the dealership often overpaying on addon’s and finance rates.
2. Navy Federal’s Car Search Program
Navy Federal gives members access to an online car search tool powered by TrueCar. You can shop for new or used vehicles if you qualify for membership.
Membership is just for people with military ties, including veterans and their families.
Benefits:
- Free access for eligible members
- Straightforward online platform with clear prices
Limitations:
- Only works with TrueCar Certified Dealers
- Lacks dedicated personal assistance
- Most buyers need to visit dealerships to complete purchases and still get nickeled and dimed with addon’s or bad finance rates
Want to compare features or dig deeper? Visit the Navy Federal Car Buying Service page.
Third Option: Costco Auto Program
The Costco Auto Program lets members connect with a network of trusted dealerships. With a Costco membership, you get pre-screened dealers and some help with trade-ins.
Just remember, you’ll still negotiate prices at the dealer, and there’s no dedicated advocate just for you. Costco gets paid by dealerships for being in the program. For all the details, check out the official Costco Auto Program website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Other Car Buying Programs for Military and Veterans?
Military members and veterans have a few different ways to buy cars now that USAA’s car buying program is gone. Navy Federal Credit Union, PenFed Credit Union, and Costco’s car buying service are some of the most popular alternatives.
How the Costco Auto Program Differs from the Old USAA Service
Costco’s car buying program is open to all members, not just military families. While both programs connect you with dealers for pre-negotiated prices, Costco doesn’t offer the military perks or insurance options that USAA used to include.
Perks for USAA Members in Other Car Buying Programs
Some car buying services may offer discounts or special rates for military and veterans, but they don’t match the benefits USAA once bundled, like insurance deals. If you’re a USAA member, compare offers closely—benefits can vary a lot depending on the service and dealership.
Information on Navy Federal Credit Union’s Auto Buying Program
Navy Federal runs its own car buying service with special rates for members, including military personnel and their families. You can browse new and used vehicles, and the service lists competitive prices. Details about dealer partnerships and discounts live on Navy Federal’s website.
How USAA Members’ Car Buying Changed After the Service Stopped
After USAA’s program ended, members lost access to exclusive deals that once came with USAA insurance and financing. Now, many turn to other credit unions, car buying clubs, or use car buying advocates to negotiate directly with dealers to find fair prices.
Best-Rated Car Buying Services for Veterans Since USAA Ended Their Program
Veterans tend to check out PenFed, Navy Federal Credit Union, and Costco when they’re in the market for a new ride.
Each option brings its own mix of perks and drawbacks—nobody’s perfect, right?
| Car Buying Service | Who Can Join | Military Discounts | Extra Offerings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navy Federal | Military, family | Yes | Auto loans, insurance |
| PenFed | Military, open to all | Sometimes | Car finder tools |
| Costco | All Costco members | No, but decent pricing | Dealer network, renegotiated prices |
If you’re still not sure, you might want to skim the latest alternatives to the USAA program before making a decision.
If you want to find out how to get a YCBA Advocate working for you, visit the YCBA Car Buying Concierge to schedule a free chat. Find out if working with an advocate is right for you!
