Insider Hacks: How to get your new car for less
Why Some Dealers Keep "Secrets"
While most dealers want you to have a great experience, the reality is that many money-saving programs never get mentioned. It's usually not about being "sneaky"-it's about the path of least resistance:
- The "Paperwork" Barrier: Extra savings often require extra steps, like chasing down authorization codes. Many dealers skip these to speed up the sale.
- Information Overload: Incentive programs change weekly. If a salesperson isn't doing their homework, you miss out on the latest rebates.
- Misaligned Goals: If a specific discount doesn't help the dealer's bottom line or the salesperson's commission, they may lack the "passion" to hunt it down for you.
At Ron Westphal Chevy, we do things differently. We believe that finding you every possible cent in savings isn't just good service-it's good business. When you save more, you're more likely to send your friends and family to us. To us, that's the only math that matters!
Huge Savings on American-Made Power
Want to save a bundle while supporting vehicles built right here in the U.S.A.? The Federal Government agrees it's a great idea!
Thanks to recent legislation designed to support American manufacturing, financing a vehicle made in the U.S. could unlock a significant tax benefit for you. For many buyers, this is the single biggest "insider hack" for reducing the total cost of a new truck or SUV.
The Big Win: You may be eligible to write off up to $10,000 in interest when you file your taxes. That's a massive reduction in your total cost of ownership!
Don't leave this money on the table-it's essentially a "thank you" for choosing an American-made machine. Find out if your next vehicle qualifies.
Tip 1: Your Employer Might Have Your Golden Ticket
How much more could you save on your next GM vehicle? The answer might be hidden in your workplace!
General Motors works with an enormous network of businesses-from the obvious manufacturing plants to companies you'd never guess were connected-and the employees of these GM Supplier partners often qualify for special, additional pricing.
It's an exclusive perk that far too many people overlook. Don't be one of them! Take a quick moment to confirm if the company you work for entitles you to these substantial savings. It's the easiest money you'll ever save.
Find Out Now: Check Your Supplier Eligibility Here.
No GM Employee Supplier Status? No Problem!
The Friends & Family Perk
So, your company didn't make the list? Don't hang up your savings hat just yet! You might still be closer to a huge discount than you think.
Thanks to the incredible GM Employee or Supplier for Friends and Family Program, the savings can be shared!
If your friend, neighbor, or even a distant cousin is a GM Supplier, they might be able to pass their amazing discount on to you. It's their way of spreading the GM love!
Here's the simple rundown on how to take advantage of this awesome shared benefit:
- The Golden Ticket: Every time your GM Supplier contact buys or leases a new GM vehicle using their discount, they earn the ability to share that exact same Supplier Discount with one friend or family member (that's you!).
- The Timeline: They can share this discount with you for up to one full year from the date of their own vehicle purchase.
- The Clock Starts Now: Once your Supplier friend gets the official authorization number for you, you'll have 90 days to use it and drive away in your new GM vehicle!
It's time to start asking around-that incredible discount could be just a quick call away!
Got a GM Credit Card? Awesome!
Make sure you cash in those points, as they act just like money you can put directly toward your new vehicle purchase.
Not a cardholder yet? This is a great time to become one! GM typically offers a generous sign-up bonus that translates into immediate savings. Plus, all the points you earn after that can be used to lower your future GM Financial car payments. Ask your salesperson how much cash you could be getting!
Trade-In Tips
When you take your trade-in to the dealership for appraisal, give it a good wash and vacuum first. It's just common sense: a clean, well-kept car makes a much better first impression on the appraiser. And that positive impression can absolutely translate into a little more cash in your pocket.
First Impressions: They make a difference.
When it's time for your trade-in appraisal, think of it as a first date! A little effort goes a long way.
Take an hour to clean up the interior, remove all the trash, organize the trunk, and maybe even give the exterior a good wash. While cleanliness isn't the only thing that matters, presenting an organized, "front-line ready" vehicle helps make a strong positive impression on the appraiser-and a better impression often means a bigger offer in your pocket!!
Rates vs. Rebates: Which Saves You More?
Don't let a low interest rate distract you-sometimes the "higher" rate is actually the better deal. Here's the "insider" secret most people miss:
GM typically requires you to choose between Special Low Financing (e.g., 1.9% APR) OR a Large Cash Rebate (e.g., $2,500 Cash Back). You can rarely have both.
Which one should you pick?
- Choose the Low Rate: If you plan to keep the loan for the full term (5-7 years). The interest savings add up over a long time.
- Choose the Cash Rebate: If you plan to pay the loan off early or refinance later. Taking the cash drops your "Principal Balance" on Day One, meaning you owe less immediately.
At Ron Westphal Chevy, we'll run the numbers side-by-side for you. We'll show you the "Total Cost of Ownership" for both options so you can choose the one that keeps more money in your pocket.
Heads up for Members!
Do you have a membership with Costco?
If so, you might be in luck! These big warehouse stores often team up with GM to offer special, exclusive pricing just for their members.
Before you finalize your purchase, make sure to ask your salesperson (or check your club's website) to see if there's an active program running. It's an easy way to grab an extra discount!
Turn Friends Into Savings: Our Referral Perk!
Ready to find your perfect vehicle with a familiar, trusted guide? If you know someone who has bought from us before, it's time to cash in on those connections!
Have your friend or family member refer you to the dealership, and they get rewarded for their good taste! They could earn anywhere from $50 to $250 (or even more!) depending on the specific model and current program.
It's a Win-Win-Win:
You Win: You get matched with a trusted salesperson who will ensure a great experience.
They Win: Your friend gets paid a nice bonus just for sending you our way.
Maybe You Both Win? Maybe your friend is feeling generous and splits the referral cash with you-it never hurts to ask! 😉
Ask them to reach out and refer you today!
The "New Car" Loophole: Demonstrator Vehicles
Want the "new car smell" with a used-car price tag? We have a secret weapon for serious savers: Demonstrator Vehicles (or "Demos").
These aren't typical used cars. They are usually the Manager's daily driver, the Owner's weekend ride, or a dependable service loaner. Here is why a Demo is the ultimate "insider" choice:
- Low Mileage, Meticulous Care: Demos typically have fewer than 7,500 miles. Because they represent the dealership on the road, they are kept in showroom condition and serviced religiously.
- The "Untitled" Advantage: This is the big one. Because these vehicles have never been titled, they still qualify for all new vehicle incentives, low APR financing, and factory rebates!
- Aggressive Pricing: Since they've been gently driven, we apply deep dealer discounts on top of those factory rebates. You get the "double dip" of savings.
It's the perfect sweet spot: you get the full factory warranty and new-car perks, but at a price that fits your budget. They move fast, so ask your salesperson which Demos we have in stock today!