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Navy Federal Car Buying versus CarEdge Concierge: The Differences Explained
When it comes to purchasing a new or used vehicle, car buying services can simplify the process and get you a better deal. In this comparison, we’ll look at two popular services: Navy Federal Credit Union Car Buying Service and CarEdge Concierge’s car buying service, highlighting their key features, customer experiences, and overall value. Which is best for you? Stay tuned to find out.
Service Overview
Navy Federal Car Buying Service
- Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) offers a car buying service powered by TrueCar, designed to provide a straightforward, member-friendly car purchasing experience.
- Main Selling Points: Benefits for veterans and servicemembers, TrueCar affiliation, upfront price offers, trade-in assistance, exclusive member discounts, and competitive financing options.
- Target Audience: Navy Federal Credit Union members seeking a convenient and budget-friendly car buying experience with the added benefits of membership.
- Price: Free with Navy Federal Credit Union membership
CarEdge Concierge
- CarEdge provides a comprehensive, hands-off car buying service, handling everything from vehicle sourcing to negotiation and delivery, all from the comfort of your home.
- Main Selling Points: Complete management of the buying process, expert negotiation, no hidden fees, transparency, and customer-centric approach. CarEdge is not paid by car dealerships, and emphasizes their independence from auto industry influence.
- Target Audience: Consumers seeking a personalized, stress-free car buying experience with expert support.
- Price: $999 plus shipping where applicable
| Feature | Navy Federal Car Buying Service | CarEdge Concierge |
| Price | Free with Navy Federal Credit Union membership | $999 + shipping if applicable |
| Shop deals from home | Yes | Yes |
| Buy at the dealership | Yes | No |
| Home delivery | No | Yes |
| Personalized service | No | Yes |
| Negotiates on your behalf | No | Yes |
| Vetted dealers | Yes | Yes |
| Trade-in assistance | No | Yes |
| Extended Warranties Offered | No | Yes |
Customer Experience
Navy Federal Credit Union Car Buying Service
- Google Rating: 4.0 stars (73 reviews)
- Common Praises: Convenience, competitive pricing, exclusive member benefits.
- Common Complaints: Limited to TrueCar Certified Dealers, less personalized service compared to concierge services. Car buyers still deal with car dealership salespeople.
- Customer Service: Not personalized, but general help is available through Navy Federal for questions and support.
CarEdge Concierge
- Google Rating: 5.0 stars (1,728 reviews)
- Common Praises: Buyers skip the dealership, effective negotiation, no hidden fees, stress-free process, home delivery.
- Common Complaints: Higher upfront cost compared to other services.
- Customer Service: Comprehensive support throughout the entire process from a personal CarEdge Concierge.
Pro and Cons
There are some key differences between Navy Federal Credit Union and CarEdge car buying services, so we’ve gathered the key takeaways that differentiate each.
Navy Federal Car Buying Service Pro and Cons
| Navy Federal Car Buying Service | |
| Pro | Cons |
| Free with Navy Federal membership | Membership is restricted to those with ties to the armed forces |
| Convenient online car search and upfront pricing | Limited to TrueCar Certified Dealers |
| No personal Concierge or customer advocate | |
| Dealership visits required in most cases | |
| Less personalized service | |
CarEdge Pro and Cons
| CarEdge Car Buying Service | |
| Pro | Cons |
| Skip the dealership and buy from home | Higher upfront cost |
| Personalized Concierge included | Shipping costs vary by distance |
| Home delivery available | Some specialty models not serviced |
| Negotiates on your behalf | |
| Independent from car dealers | |
| Trade-in assistance | |
| CarEdge does the work for you | |
In Conclusion: Which Is Better?
Navy Federal’s Car Buying Service and CarEdge Concierge both offer unique benefits, catering to different needs and preferences. Navy Federal is ideal for current credit union members or qualifying applicants looking for an affordable car buying experience with member perks. CarEdge, on the other hand, is perfect for those who desire a personalized service, want to avoid the dealership hassle, and appreciate expert negotiation done on your behalf. Simply put, CarEdge Concierge is the most hands-off car buying experience out there.
Ultimately, if you seek a budget-friendly option with member perks during vehicle ownership, Navy Federal Credit Union’s Car Buying Service is a solid choice. However, if you want the most streamlined and potentially cost-saving car buying experience with minimal effort on your part, CarEdge Car Buying Service stands out as the superior option.
Check out these helpful links below to learn more about each car buying service:
The Used Car Market Is Collapsing in 2024 – What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
Used car prices are falling in 2024, and in all likelihood, we’re just getting started. According to the most recent used car market updates from Black Book, prices and trade-in values are softening as buyers turn their backs to high APRs and high prices. The summer brought the largest wholesale used car price decline since the pandemic. Here’s a look at the latest used car market update for 2024.
👉 See the latest used car price report (updated weekly)
Used Car Loan Rates Complicate a Buyer’s Market
Following an unremarkable spring buying season, used car sales are weakening and inventory is piling up. Over the past month, we see that used car prices at wholesale markets are down one percent. That’s not much, but it’s the trend that matters. With each passing week, used car prices have been softening further. If this trend continues, used car buyers may finally be in for some real price relief. However, the selling price is just one piece of the puzzle.
Unfortunately, high interest rates continue to keep buyers away, with the average used car loan rate remaining north of 14% APR. Furthermore, compelling new car manufacturer incentives, such as zero percent APR offers available today, are leading would-be used car buyers to shift over to the new car market. The latest data from Cox Automotive shows that new car transaction prices continue to fall, and with more affordable new cars, the used car market is under downward pressure.
All signs point towards more price drops to come in 2024 (see our market forecast here). But it’s not all good news. Driver’s considering selling their vehicle should pay attention to used car price updates in the weeks ahead.
Trade-In Values Are Falling in 2024
As used car prices fall, trade-in values are taking a hit. Although today’s price trends are great for buyers, it’s bad news for those looking to sell or trade-in a vehicle in 2024.
Here are some tips to navigate this challenging landscape:
1. Research Your Car’s Value Frequently
- Use online tools like CarEdge Sell, Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to get an accurate estimate of your car’s current trade-in value. Used car values are changing by the week, so it’s important to stay on top of recent trends. Plus, this will give you a baseline to work with when negotiating with dealers or private buyers.
2. Consider Private Sale
- Selling your car privately can often yield a higher price than trading it in at a dealership. Be prepared for the additional effort involved in listing, showing, and negotiating with potential buyers.
3. Prepare Your Car For Sale
- Ensure your vehicle is in its best condition. A clean, well-maintained car with up-to-date service records will attract higher offers. Consider minor repairs or detailing to increase your car’s appeal.
4. Master Negotiation Beforehand
- When trading in your car, get quotes from multiple dealerships to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Don’t be afraid to negotiate based on the research you’ve done about your car’s value. Use CarEdge’s FREE car buying cheat sheets and Deal School 2024 [FREE] to become a negotiation pro.
5. Consider a Car Buying Service
- professional Concierges who work for a car buying service are not just great at getting you deals, they can also negotiate your car’s trade-in value. Learn more about how car buying services work.
By following these steps, you can give your car the best shot at bringing in a higher sale or trade-in value. If you choose to work with CarEdge’s Car Buying Service, our professional Concierges can assist with your trade-in or sale. Learn more.
A Bit of Perspective
Notably, used car values remain above historical norms. It would take months of similar week-over-week declines to return the market to pre-2021 norms. In 2019, the average used car selling price was $20,618. Today, in 2024, the average used car price is $25,328. However, that’s down from 2022’s peak north of $30,000 for a used car.
And then there are today’s used car loan rates. For much of the past year, rates have averaged around 14% APR. This high-interest environment continues to impact buyers, making used car financing less attractive compared to the more favorable new car loan rates available with manufacturer incentives. Are you sure you want that $25,000 used car at 13% APR if you can get a brand new car for $30,000 at zero percent APR? It’s something every used car shopper should consider today.
Understanding these trends provides valuable context for today’s used car market. While current prices are higher than historical norms, they are gradually decreasing. However, the elevated used car loan rates are a critical factor to consider when making purchasing decisions.
The Takeaway
Used car prices are falling sharply at wholesale markets and more slowly at retail car lots. Expect used car prices to continue falling in the months ahead, creating a buyer’s market for deal-savvy shoppers. However, used car loan rates make financing expensive, so if you’re planning to finance a large amount, consider 0% APR offers for affordable new cars instead.
Have You Considered Car Buying Services?
No dealers, no hassle, no stress. Is it possible to buy a car without hating it? Yes! Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the most-trusted car buying service out there!
Costco versus CarEdge Car Buying Services: The Differences Explained
When it comes to purchasing a new or used vehicle, car buying services can simplify the process and potentially save you money. In this comparison, we’ll look at two popular services: the Costco Auto Pro and CarEdge Concierge, highlighting their key features, customer experiences, and overall value. Which is best car buying service for you? Stay tuned to find out.
Service Overview
Costco Auto Pro
- Costco Auto Pro offers prearranged pricing from Approved Dealers, with the goal of providing a transparent car buying experience for Costco members.
- Main Selling Points: Prearranged pricing, approved dealer network, member support, discounts on parts and services.
- Target Audience: Costco members looking for a no-haggle car buying experience.
- Price: Costco membership: $60 – $120/year
CarEdge Concierge
- CarEdge provides a white-glove car buying service, handling everything from vehicle sourcing to negotiation and delivery. For car buyers, this is hands-off and stress-free.
- Main Selling Points: Complete management of the buying process, expert negotiation, no hidden fees, transparency, and customer-centric approach. CarEdge is not paid by car dealerships, and emphasizes independence from auto industry influence.
- Target Audience: Consumers seeking a personalized, stress-free car buying experience with expert support, without having to visit dealerships.
- Price: $999 plus shipping where applicable
Here’s the breakdown of key features of Costco vs. CarEdge.
| Feature | Costco Auto Pro | CarEdge Concierge |
| Price | $60 – $120/year | $999 + shipping if applicable |
| Buy at the dealership | Yes | No |
| Buy from home | No | Yes |
| Home delivery | No | Yes |
| Personalized service | No | Yes |
| Negotiates pricing | No | Yes |
| Vetted dealers | Yes | Yes |
| Trade-in assistance | Yes | Yes |
| Extended Warranties offered | Yes | Yes |
Customer Experience
Costco Auto Pro
- Google Rating: 2.3 stars (38 reviews)
- Common Praises: Transparent pricing, ease of use, member benefits.
- Common Complaints: Buyers still go through the dealership experience. Some complaints mention that dealers are not always adhering to program rules, or pushing additional fees. A participation fee is paid by the dealers participating in Costco Auto Pro.
- Customer Service: Available through Member Advocates for questions and support.
CarEdge Concierge
- Google Rating: 5.0 stars (1,728 reviews)
- Common Praises: Buyers skip the dealership, effective negotiation, no hidden fees, stress-free process, home delivery.
- Common Complaints: Higher upfront cost compared to other services.
- Customer Service: Comprehensive support throughout the entire process from a personal CarEdge Concierge.
Pro and Cons
There are some key differences between Costco and CarEdge, so we’ve gathered the key takeaways that differentiate each car buying service.
Costco Pro and Cons
| Costco Auto Pro | |
| Pro | Cons |
| Lower program cost | Buyers still negotiate at the dealership |
| Included with Costco membership | Poor Google Review ratings |
| Pre-approved dealer network | No personal Concierge or customer advocate |
| Trade-in assistance | Costco is paid by participating dealers |
CarEdge Pro and Cons
| CarEdge Concierge | |
| Pro | Cons |
| Skip the dealership and buy from home | Higher upfront cost |
| Personalized Concierge included | Shipping costs vary, but free pick-up is an option |
| Home delivery available | Some specialty models not serviced |
| Negotiates on your behalf | |
| Independent from car dealers | |
| Trade-in assistance | |
| CarEdge does the work for you | |
In Conclusion: Which Is Better?
Costco’s Auto Pro and CarEdge Concierge are both good options, but their key differences mean that the best car buying service depends on your needs and priorities. For buyers looking to avoid the car dealership hassle altogether, CarEdge is the way to go. CarEdge is also the clear choice for car buyers wanting a personalized customer service experience. Costco on the other hand is a great option for those on a very tight budget, since the program is available to those with a Costco membership.
Ultimately, if budget constraints are your primary concern and you are comfortable with dealership interactions, Costco Auto Pro is a solid choice. However, if you seek the most streamlined and potentially cost-saving car buying experience with minimal effort on your part, CarEdge Concierge stands out as the superior car buying service.
Check out these helpful links below to learn more about each car buying service:
Learn more about CarEdge’s car buying service
The Most Reliable Luxury Cars and SUVS – Consumer Reports, Recalls, and More
You’d think that ‘you get what you pay for’ would ring true for all luxury vehicles, but time and time again, the data shows otherwise. Luxury models can have some of the highest maintenance costs, despite their lavish designs and fine-tuned ride. Before you fall in love with any new car, see the most reliable luxury cars and SUVs in 2024. Your wallet will thank you!
The Most Reliable Luxury Sedans
2024 Lexus IS Hybrid
CR Reliability Score: 79/100
Overall CR Score: 72
2024 Recalls: 0 (as of May 2024)
The 2024 Lexus IS Hybrid is a winner for those who desire fuel efficient luxury with 41 MPG combined. It earned top reliability scores from Consumer Reports in the luxury sedan category.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse Lexus IS listings with the power of local market data
2024 Lexus ES Hybrid
CR Reliability Score: 73/100
Overall CR Score: 88
2024 Recalls: 0 (as of May 2024)
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse Lexus ES listings with the power of local market data
2024 Acura TLX
CR Reliability Score: 70/100
Overall CR Score: 69
2024 Recalls: 0
The 2024 Acura TLX impresses with sporty demeanor and dynamic driving capabilities, powered by 272 horsepower. Tell that to anyone who says ‘it’s just a Honda Accord’. But one Honda attribute that does carry over is reliability.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse Acura TLX listings with the power of local market data
2024 BMW 2 Series
CR Reliability Score: 64/100
Overall CR Score: 74
2024 Recalls:
Starting price under $40,000, this entry-level BMW scores above average in reliability. Plus, the BMW 2 Series scored well in IIHS crash testing.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse BMW listings with the power of local market data
The Most Reliable Luxury SUVs
2023 Lexus GX (2024 not yet tested)
CR Reliability Score: 86/100
Overall CR Score: 74
2024 Recalls: 0 (as of May 2024)
The Lexus GX continues to be a reliable, luxurious workhorse with its rugged off-road capabilities and plush interior. With the latest refreshed design for 2024, it looks better than ever too. Consumer Reports is currently testing the reliability of the 2024 model.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse Lexus GX listings with the power of local market data
2024 Lexus UX
CR Reliability Score: 83/100
Overall CR Score: 78
2024 Recalls: 0 (as of May 2024)
The 2024 Lexus UX captivates with its bold design and efficient hybrid powertrain, achieving an excellent 42 MPG combined. Its compact size and great fuel economy make it ideal for urban driving.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse Lexus UX listings with the power of local market data
2024 BMW X5
CR Reliability Score: 82/100
Overall CR Score: 92
2024 Recalls: 0
The 2024 BMW X5 is both luxurious and sporty, for an SUV at least. With 335 horsepower under the hood, merging onto the highway is no challenge. If you’re looking for a reliable luxury SUV, the BMW X5 is up there with the best.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse BMW X5 listings with the power of local market data
2024 Acura RDX
CR Reliability Score: 80/100
Overall CR Score: 81
2024 Recalls: 0
The 2024 Acura RDX delivers a compelling mix of sporty performance and luxury, powered by a 272 horsepower engine that wins over drivers with its engaging handling and high-quality cabin.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse Acura RDX listings with the power of local market data
2024 BMW X3
CR Reliability Score: 73/100
Overall CR Score: 86
2024 Recalls: 0
The 2024 BMW X3 offers what you’d expect from the German luxury brand: balanced performance and a sophisticated interior. With a starting price of $47,895, this is a surprisingly affordable BMW SUV.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse BMW X3 listings with the power of local market data
The Most Reliable Luxury EVs
2024 Lexus RZ
CR Reliability Score: 79/100
Overall CR Score: 74
2024 Recalls: 0
The 2024 Lexus RZ starts at around $55,000 and offers a driving range of approximately 220-250 miles on a full charge. It includes the luxury features you’d expect from Lexus, including the new and improved Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The RZ supports DC fast charging, enabling an 10 – 80% charge in about 30 minutes.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse Lexus RZ listings with the power of local market data
2024 BMW i4
CR Reliability Score: 60/100
Overall CR Score: 83
2024 Recalls: 0
The 2024 BMW i4 offers up to 300 miles of range, with the rapid acceleration you’d expect from a BMW EV. How quick are we talking? The M50 variant zips from 0-60 mph in about 3.7 seconds. The 2024 i4’s MSRP starts at $53,195 with destination fees.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse BMW i4 listings with the power of local market data
2024 BMW iX
CR Reliability Score: 59/100
Overall CR Score: 84
2024 Recalls: 2 (Learn more)
The 2024 BMW iX offers a driving range of up to 324 miles. At a DC fast charger, the iX can charge from 10-80% in about 35 minutes. Combining luxury, high performance, and solid reliability, the iX is one of the best premium electric SUVs.
See complete reliability ratings at Consumer Reports
Browse BMW iX listings with the power of local market data
A Better Way to Buy a Car
Tired of talking to salespeople, haggling, and feeling ripped off? Our CarEdge team of experts can do it all for you, from getting you the best price to home delivery. Learn more about CarEdge Concierge, the most-trusted car buying service out there!
The Most Negotiable New Cars in 2024
The best new car deals are changing in 2024. We spoke to CarEdge’s Ray Shefska about which new cars and trucks are most negotiable today. With over 40 years of experience in the business and a constant pulse on the market, Ray knows the ins and outs of car buying. That includes where the best deals can be had. These are the most negotiable new cars for summer 2024, based on the latest market data from CarEdge Pro.
The Most Negotiable New Cars
#1: Electric Vehicles
You’ve probably heard by now that automakers are struggling to sell EVs. While EV sales continue to climb, it’s true that the rate of adoption has slowed. Gone is the rapid rise in popularity that early adopters brought to the market. Now, we’re well into the slow and steady process of convincing the other 90% of the car market that EVs are worth trying out.
Here’s how EV inventory plays out as we head into summer 2024. Keep in mind that the market average is 72 days of supply. You can learn more about this valuable car market measure here.
| Make | Model | Current Day Supply | Total For Sale | Negotiability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford | F-150 Lightning | 128 days | 7,314 | Highly Negotiable |
| Ford | Mustang Mach-E | 166 days | 18,896 | Highly Negotiable |
| Kia | EV6 | 96 days | 4,737 | Above Average |
| Kia | EV9 | 106 days | 4,940 | Above Average |
| Hyundai | IONIQ 5 | 140 days | 15,147 | Highly Negotiable |
| Volkswagen | ID.4 | 132 days | 6,940 | Highly Negotiable |
| Nissan | Ariya | 108 days | 4,821 | Above Average |
| Subaru | Solterra | 105 days | 4,415 | Above Average |
| Cadillac | Lyriq | 184 days | 13,119 | Highly Negotiable |
| Chevrolet | Blazer EV | 507 days | 16,014 | Highly Negotiable |
| Mercedes-Benz | EQS | 180 days | 3,460 | Highly Negotiable |
| Mercedes-Benz | EQE SUV | 148 days | 3,712 | Highly Negotiable |
| Mercedes-Benz | EQB | 241 days | 2,680 | Highly Negotiable |
| Volvo | C40 | 383 days | 1,420 | Highly Negotiable |
See local market supply, price data, and buying advice with CarEdge Pro
If you’re EV-curious, this oversupply is GREAT news. Manufacturers and dealers alike have tens of thousands of electric vehicles to sell, and are offering big incentives to entice buyers.
Here are just a few of the standout deals this summer:
Finance with 0% APR (all trims) for 60 months + $7,500 customer cash until June 3, 2024. Lease the IONIQ 5 SE for $299/month for 24 months with $3,499 due.
Base Price: $41,400 – $53,500
Range: 220 – 303 miles
Finance with 0% APR for 60 months + $9,000 cash. Lease the EV6 RWD Wind for $249/month for 24 months with $3,999 due.
Base Price: $42,600 – $61,600
Range: 252 – 310 miles
Why no Tesla models on this list? Simply put, Tesla models are not negotiable. With direct-to-consumer sales, the price is the price. However, there’s great news for Tesla fans. Tesla is offering their best offer ever for the Model Y. Right now, Tesla is offering 0.99% APR for up to 72 months.
This comes as Model Y prices have fallen to their lowest point ever. In 2024, the popular Model Y Long Range AWD starts at $47,990. The Rear-Wheel Drive Model Y starts at $44,990. Learn more about these Tesla offers.
#2 Sedans
Sedans have officially fallen out of favor in America. This is not news to you if you’ve driven anywhere in the States in the past decade. However, manufacturers are still producing several great sedans that promise great fuel economy and low prices.
Last year, these were the 5 best-selling sedans in America:
- Toyota Camry
- Toyota Corolla
- Honda Accord
- Honda Civic
- Hyundai Elantra
Although the Camry and Corolla remain hot sellers with below-average negotiability, several popular and well-reviewed sedans have a glut of dealership inventory in 2024. This makes these models especially negotiable today:
| Make | Model | Current Day Supply | Total For Sale | Negotiability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda | Accord | 73 days | 27,374 | Above Average |
| Kia | K5 | 150 days | 2,034 | Highly Negotiable |
| Hyundai | Elantra | 115 days | 32,420 | Above Average |
| Hyundai | Sonata | 154 days | 15,653 | Highly Negotiable |
| Subaru | Legacy | 99 days | 3,815 | Above Average |
| Nissan | Altima | 144 days | 24,618 | Highly Negotiable |
| Nissan | Versa | 115 days | 8.987 | Above Average |
| Nissan | Sentra | 120 days | 36,296 | Above Average |
| Mazda | Mazda3 | 147 days | 9,533 | Highly Negotiable |
See local market supply, price data, and buying advice with CarEdge Pro
Don’t negotiate without this!!! 👉 Free Car Buying Cheat Sheet
#3 Trucks
CarEdge co-founder Ray Shefska highlighted full-sized trucks as some of the most negotiable new cars in 2024. It’s now common to see advertised discounts below MSRP for these models. Truck inventory has fallen as dealers have finally sold off most of their 2023 inventory, but trucks are still in oversupply. Here are the best truck deals this month:
Ram 1500: 92 days of supply (highly negotiable)
- $2,500 cash allowance
Ford F-150: 98 days of supply (highly negotiable)
- 3.9% APR for 60 months + $2,500 cash incentive
Chevrolet Silverado 1500: 105 days of supply (highly negotiable)
- 1.9% APR + $5,750 cash offer with a trade-in
GMC Sierra 1500: 99 days of supply (highly negotiable)
- 1.9% APR + $3,250 cash allowance + NO payments for 90 days.
You can negotiate the best deal on the leftovers from last year, however, In fact, there are still 18,000 brand-new 2023 F-150s on dealer lots, and 2,900 new 2023 Ram 1500s. If you’re equipped with expert market insights, these are the most negotiable new trucks today. But hurry, they won’t be there for long! No truck goes unsold, and we’re already halfway through 2024.
Stay Ahead of the Market with CarEdge Pro
What do you get with CarEdge Pro? A whole lot!
- CarEdge Fair Price: Know the right price to pay for any new or used car.
- Market Supply: Understand local market demand with data on how long cars stay on the lot in YOUR neck of the woods.
- CarEdge Recommendation: Get personalized advice and recommendations for your car search, all based on market conditions in your area.
- CarEdge Reports: Pro includes 10 detailed reports for specific VINs. Learn more.
- Black Book Valuation: Get accurate vehicle values for smarter buying, selling, or trading decisions.
