Auto Program Basics
Why should I use The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program?
Golden 1 members who use our program save money, time and hassle on vehicle purchases and leases. Our field staff selects participating dealers that offer competitive pricing and superior customer service. Our competitive shop staff surveys dealers every month to keep our pricing up-to-date. In the unlikely event that a problem should arise, our Auto-Buying Specialists will work with you to resolve the situation. When you use The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program, a full complement of industry professionals stand behind you.
Does The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program offer all makes and models?
The brands and models available vary according to location. We make every effort to offer most brands in most areas; however, some local dealers may be unable to meet our criteria for pricing and service. If your search results indicate there is no nearby dealer, you can telephone a customer service representative at 1-888-211-5808.
Contacting/Visiting a Dealership
Can I go straight to the participating dealer or do I need to go through The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program first?
You must always use our website or call center to locate and make an appointment at a participating dealer. This allows us to ensure that you receive excellent value and service, and prevents you from visiting a dealer that no longer participates in the program and cannot provide our pre-arranged pricing.
Do I have to wait for the dealership to call me to make an appointment?
No, you may call the dealer at any time. You will be given the name and phone number of the Dealer Specialists at the dealership. Speak only with the Dealer Specialists, because they are the only people authorized to give you the pre-arranged price.
Do I have to use the Dealer Specialist, or can I talk to any salesperson at the dealership?
Any salesperson is happy to help (it's how they earn a living), but our Dealer Specialists are specially trained to handle your inquiries. It's how we ensure you receive the attention, the pre-arranged price and great customer service.
Pricing Information
Why doesn’t The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program tell me the vehicle price?
The exact price of the vehicle is determined by the particular vehicle you select. Differences in optional equipment and accessories will affect the sale price. You are quoted the pre-arranged price once you have selected a specific vehicle. If you have any questions about the price the dealer has quoted, our Auto-Buying Specialist can review the offer for you.
What is the invoice price?
The document from the manufacturer which details all the specifics about a particular vehicle, including Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), model description, base pricing, installed options with pricing and "Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price" (MSRP). The dealer's actual cost may differ due to several factors, such as holdbacks, factory-to-dealer incentives, and/or interest on inventory.
What is holdback?
Some manufacturers pay dealers holdback for the sale of vehicles the manufacturer has delivered to them. The funds are called holdback because it is money that the manufacturer “holds” for the dealer and pays back every few months. The amounts are generally 1-3% of the MSRP or invoice price (depends on the manufacturer). Holdback is sometimes described elsewhere as “hidden profits” for the dealer. Holdback is one of the factors we consider when we look to establish pre-arranged pricing with our participating dealers.
Vehicle Selection
If I submit a vehicle request, am I obligated to purchase from The Golden 1 Dealer Specialist?
No. Although many members do end up purchasing vehicles because of the program’s exceptional value, you are not required to take delivery, or to promise to take delivery, in order to get pricing information. To be sure you receive Golden 1 quality pricing and service, speak only with our Dealer Specialists at a dealership where we referred you.
What if the dealer doesn’t have the vehicle I want?
Our dealers will explain the choices available to you when you are selecting a vehicle. If an acceptable vehicle is not available from dealer inventory, the dealer may offer to trade from another dealer or factory-order one for you. Trading with another dealer may incur an additional charge, which will depend on the individual circumstances. The dealer will advise you of the charge before you commit to the trade.
Can I factory-order my car?
Yes. The dealer will explain the process when you are selecting a vehicle. Some dealers receive allocations of vehicles from the manufacturer, and may not be able to guarantee that the vehicle as you describe it will be built. In those situations, the dealer may be able to reserve an incoming vehicle for you, but it still may not be an exact match, and it could take a couple of months to arrive. Regardless of the brand, you generally are entitled to any rebate or special rate financing that is available on the day of delivery. If the manufacturer changes the offer between the dates of order and delivery you receive what is available the day of delivery.
Leases, Trade-Ins, Pre-Owned Vehicles
Can I lease a car through The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program?
Absolutely. Our Golden 1 Dealer Specialist will offer you the same price for a lease as for a purchase. For more information on leasing, visit our ‘Leasing vs. Buying’ section under New Vehicle Research.
Does The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program offer pre-arranged pricing for used cars, too?
Yes. We offer a set dollar amount off of the lowest posted price.
What is the lowest posted price?
The lowest posted price includes but is not limited to Web, newspaper and on-lot pricing.
How does using The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program affect my trade-in?
It doesn't. Use our Trade-in Appraiser to estimate your vehicle’s trade-in value.
How is my trade-in figured into the deal?
The Dealer Specialist will tell you how much the dealership will give you for your trade. You can accept it or sell the vehicle on your own. If you do decide to trade, the value of your trade-in is applied to your purchase in the manner required by law in your particular state.
What is Factory-Certified Pre-Owned?
A Factory-Certified Pre-Owned vehicle is under warranty by the manufacturer. This car has already been inspected and serviced, giving you peace of mind in knowing that your vehicle is ready to hit the road.
What is Dealer-Certified Pre-Owned?
A Dealer-Certified Pre-Owned vehicle is under warranty by the car dealership. Like a Factory-Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, this car has been given a thorough inspection and any defects have been serviced.
What is the difference between a used vehicle, a Factory-Certified Pre-Owned vehicle and a Dealer-Certified Pre-Owned vehicle?
The term 'used' identifies any vehicle that had a previous owner. There is no guarantee that it's in good working order (mechanically or in its physical appearance). On the other hand, Factory-Certified Pre-Owned vehicles go through a rigorous factory inspection to ensure the vehicle is in good working order. Additionally, there are strict standards for its physical appearance. After the vehicle is ‘certified’ it is backed up by an extended factory warranty. Dealer-Certified vehicles are inspected and warranted by the dealer.
Warranties, Add-ons, Financing and Insurance
Can I purchase extended warranties or other dealer add-ons?
Absolutely; however, you are not obligated to purchase anything additional. If you do choose to purchase dealer add-ons, your Dealer Specialist will gladly help you. Please remember that we only have pre-arranged pricing on vehicles, so this arrangement does not apply to additional options offered by dealers.
What kinds of vehicles can I finance through The Golden 1?
The Golden 1 offers competitive low rates with up to 100% financing (including tax and license) for new and used autos, RVs, motorcycles and watercraft. Get pre-approved now.
How do I apply for a vehicle loan?
You may apply for a Golden 1 auto loan by visiting any Golden 1 office, by clicking here, or contacting our Member Service Call Center at (916) 732-2900 or 1-877-GOLDEN 1 (1-877-465-3361).
Do you have a list of dealerships where I can purchase from?
To find the participating dealer closest to you, click here.
What are the current interest rates on new vehicle loans?
You may view current Golden 1 auto loan rates on new vehicles by clicking here.
What are the current interest rates on used vehicle loans?
You may view current Golden 1 auto loan rates on used vehicles by clicking here.
Can I apply for a Golden 1 loan at a dealership?
Absolutely. But remember to check golden1.com first for member-only discounts to maximize your savings.
Does The Golden 1 offer auto insurance?
Yes! Through The Golden 1, members can get 10% off auto insurance from Liberty Mutual by calling 1-888-380-9287. Additionally, members can call The Golden 1 at 1-877-Golden 1 (1-877-465-3361) for Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) for a modest fee of $299 which may help you cover the gap between your auto loan and the value of your car, truck, SUV or van if it’s stolen or totaled. And Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) is also available from The Golden 1 to help protect you against the cost of unexpected repairs, towing and road-side service.
Can I negotiate from the pre-arranged price?
There is no need to. Our dealers have committed to provide you with significant pre-arranged savings which means you enjoy a no-haggle buying experience.
How much will my monthly payment be?
You can calculate your monthly payment by clicking here and providing the requested information.
AutoMagicSM
AutoMagic is an auto loan program for members who have maintained outstanding credit. Eligible members are automatically pre-approved for their next auto loan, so there’s no need to fill out another auto loan application! 1
When members enroll in AutoMagic, they’ll receive 500 points just for signing up for this exclusive program and will continually earn valuable points2 for keeping their auto loan with The Golden 1. For example, they’ll earn points for each month their participating auto loan payment is received on time, for having automatic auto loan payments to The Golden 1 and more. Members can redeem these points to reduce the rate on their next auto loan by up to .50%. To find out if you are eligible for AutoMagic, visit any of our 77 offices or call our Member Service Call Center at 1-877-GOLDEN 1 (1-877-465-3361).
1PERIODIC CREDIT CHECK AUTHORIZATION: By applying for the AutoMagic Program (the "Program"), you authorize The Golden 1 to periodically obtain and use your credit report without affecting your credit score and other credit information from any source in connection with the Program or for other Golden 1 offers. Based on such credit report or other credit information, The Golden 1 may determine at any time, in exercise of its sole discretion, to modify or terminate your eligibility for credit through the Program.
2AutoMagic benefits are associated with the designated "primary" account member. All participants listed on the AutoMagic membership card must be borrowers on the future auto loans to use Program points. Points are non-transferable. The terms, conditions and benefits of this Program are subject to change without prior notification.
Dealership Concerns
What should I do if I have questions about my dealer experience?
Our Auto-Buying Specialists are here to assist you whenever you have a question or concern with one of our participating dealers or any aspect of your vehicle purchase. The Golden 1 Discount Auto BuyingSM program goes to great lengths to ensure that you have a no-haggle, no-hassle car-buying experience. Our Auto-Buying Specialists can answer any questions you may have and are here to assist you before, during and after your purchase so please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach us at 1-888-211-5808 Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., PST.
Personal Satisfaction Survey
Where can I find a personal satisfaction survey?
Surveys are typically sent within 3-5 business days of a dealer visit or after purchasing a vehicle. If you contacted our Call Center to locate a dealership, your survey will be administered over the phone by one of our Auto-Buying Specialists. If you used our website to find a dealer, your survey will be sent to the e-mail address you provided.
If you feel you may have missed your phone call or e-mail, don’t hesitate to contact us. Call us at 1-888-211-5808 or e-mail us and we’ll be glad to give you a survey.
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