If you hate the idea of negotiating with a dealer to buy a new car, a car-buying service may be a good, money-saving alternative for you.
In fact, many organizations, such as AAA, warehouse clubs and credit unions, offer car-buying services to their members free of charge, says John Nielsen, director of auto repair and buying services for the AAA national office in Heathrow, Fla.
Nielsen says buyers who use these car-buying services can save thousands of dollars off their purchases. "I know somebody who bought a car from our program and saved $2,600," he says.
Though shoppers have the potential to save a good deal of money, not all car-buying services are alike, says consumer auto expert Lauren Fix, author of "Lauren Fix's Guide to Loving Your Car." She says consumers need to know what the car-buying service stands to gain from these deals and if their goals are the same as yours.
Here are five points to consider about car-buying services to determine if they can work for you.