Ford Motor Company shows its appreciation for the dedication of its employees, retirees, and their families through exclusive New Vehicle Purchase Programs, known as the AZ-Plan. These programs allow eligible individuals to purchase or lease new Ford vehicles at significant savings, especially appealing to those currently driving competitor brands. This article will delve into the specifics of the Ford Program Car initiative, focusing on the AZ-Plan, its eligibility criteria, benefits, and how you can take advantage of these exclusive offers.
Understanding the Ford AZ-Plan: Descriptions and Eligibility
The Ford AZ-Plan is divided into two main categories: the A-Plan for active employees and the Z-Plan for retirees and surviving spouses. Both plans operate under similar principles, offering eligible participants the opportunity to acquire new Ford vehicles at discounted prices. Eligible Ford employees (A-Plan) and retirees/surviving spouses (Z-Plan) can generate up to four (4) Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) each calendar year. These PINs are key to unlocking program benefits when purchasing or leasing a new Ford vehicle.
Eligibility for generating PINs extends to a broad range of individuals connected to Ford:
- Active Full-Time and Salaried Employees: All active full-time hourly employees and regular salaried employees are eligible from their date of hire.
- Retirees: Hourly retirees receiving normal, early (regular or special), or disability retirement benefits, as long as medical benefits are active, are eligible. Salaried retirees under the General Retirement Plan, including those with deferred retirement benefits between 50-55 years old, maintain eligibility while receiving benefits.
- Surviving Spouses: Surviving spouses of employees who passed away while actively employed and surviving spouses of retirees under the General Retirement Plan or Ford-UAW Retirement Plan are included.
- Employees on Leave or Layoff: Employees on approved leave of absence (for the leave duration or until medical benefit expiration) and employees on layoff (for the first 12 months) remain eligible.
- Employees with Separation Packages: Details regarding AXZ-Plan privileges are provided within separation packages for those taking them.
- Regular Part-Time Employees: Regular part-time hourly and salaried employees eligible for medical benefits also qualify.
- Deferred Vested Retirees: Deferred Vested Retirees are eligible while receiving a Ford pension check.
- Immediate Family Members: This is a significant aspect of the AZ-Plan. “Immediate family” is broadly defined to include:
- Spouse
- Parents and Step-parents
- Spouse’s Parents
- Grandparents and Spouse’s Grandparents
- Sons, Daughters, In-laws, and Step-children
- Grandchildren
- Brothers, Sisters, In-laws, Half and Step-siblings
- Same-sex domestic partners of active eligible employees*
- Immediate family members of eligible same-sex domestic partners*
- Subsidiary and Affiliated Company Employees: Employees of approved subsidiary and affiliated companies/organizations are eligible as defined at the time of approval.
It’s important to note that eligibility ceases when both the employee/retiree and their spouse are deceased; surviving family members are no longer eligible in such cases.
*For same-sex domestic partners, Ford requires a notarized affidavit, dated before the sale, confirming the domestic partnership. Specific criteria define a same-sex domestic partnership, including shared residence, shared financial responsibility, relationship duration of at least 6 months, and other legal and relationship status conditions.
Proof of Eligibility for Ford Program Car Purchase
While purchasing a Ford program car through the AZ-Plan, the process for proving eligibility is streamlined. Purchasers are only required to provide their PIN and the last four digits of their Social Security Number at the time of sale. This simplifies the immediate purchase process.
However, Ford Motor Company retains the right to conduct audits of AZ-Plan sales. During these audits, employees or retirees may be asked to provide documentation to verify the relationship of the purchaser to the eligible plan member. Therefore, while not always required at the point of sale, maintaining documentation to prove eligibility is advisable.
Eligible Ford Products Under the AXZ-Plan
The Ford AXZ-Plan offers discounts on a wide range of new vehicles, making it an attractive benefit for those eligible.
Eligible Vehicles Include:
- Current and Prior Model Year Ford and Lincoln Vehicles: The program applies to current model year vehicles and prior model year vehicles that are sold in the United States. For specific vehicle eligibility, it’s best to consult with your local Ford or Lincoln dealer.
- Ordered or In-Stock Vehicles: Eligible vehicles can be ordered directly from production or, if the dealership agrees, selected from the dealer’s existing inventory. Dealership participation is voluntary, but authorized Ford dealers are encouraged to participate and adhere to the New Vehicle Purchase Program guidelines.
- Prior Model Year Vehicles: These can be purchased or leased under the AZ-Plans while supplies last. Availability and details should be confirmed with the selling dealer.
- Dealer Demonstrator Units: Demonstrator vehicles with no mileage restrictions are eligible. Importantly, no additional discounts are permitted beyond the incentives compatible with an AZ-Plan deal.
- Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury (for UAW Members): UAW-represented hourly employees, retirees, surviving spouses, and their immediate family members are eligible for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury purchases or leases, although it’s worth noting that Mercury production has ceased.
Ineligible Products:
- All Mercury Vehicles (General Ineligibility): While UAW members have historically been eligible for Mercury, currently all Mercury vehicles are generally listed as ineligible.
- Certain Commercial and Specialty Vehicles: Specific commercial use or specialty products and certain “low-supply” vehicles, as defined by Ford, are ineligible. For a precise list of ineligible models and model year vehicles, refer to the Ineligible Products document. (Note: Replace with actual link if available).
- Used Vehicles: The Ford AXZ-Plan is exclusively for new vehicles.
- Driver Training Vehicles: Vehicles specifically designated for driver training purposes are not eligible.
[Image of a Ford vehicle, possibly a popular model like F-150 or Explorer, showcasing new Ford vehicle]
A new Ford vehicle, like this SUV, could be your next car through the Ford AZ-Plan program.
Ford Program Car Policies: Obligations and Rules
The Ford New Vehicle Purchase Program operates with a clear set of policies designed to ensure fairness and prevent abuse. These policies outline obligations and rules for both customers and dealerships.
Customer/Sponsor Obligations and Rules:
- PIN Integrity: Providing PINs to customers referred by dealership employees or using dealership employees as brokers is a direct violation of program rules. Selling PINs to anyone is strictly prohibited and can result in suspension of AZ-Plan eligibility and potential termination of employment for Ford employees.
- Vehicle Sales Count: Vehicles purchased or leased through a sponsored PIN count against the annual limit of vehicles an employee, retiree, or surviving spouse can sponsor.
- Prohibition of Undisclosed Benefits: Soliciting or accepting money, items of value, or discounts not explicitly defined in the program from a dealership or anyone associated with the dealership in connection with a New Vehicle Purchase Program transaction is prohibited and contrary to Company policy.
- Delivery Responsibility: If a customer orders a vehicle through the program and cannot take delivery from the designated dealership, they must promptly inform the dealership and not sign any documents indicating acceptance or delivery.
- Dispute Resolution Program (DRP): AZ-Plan customers are required to utilize the Dispute Resolution Program (DRP) for warranty-related disputes before initiating legal action. Failure to do so may result in the suspension of Purchase Plan privileges for the sponsor. The DRP, administered by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), is a cost-free program to resolve warranty issues for Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln vehicles. Contact the BBB Auto Line at 1-800-428-3718 or the Ford Customer Relationship Center at 1-800-392-3673 for more information.
Dealership Obligations and Rules:
- Program Compliance: Participating dealerships must agree to comply with all terms outlined in the New Vehicle Purchase Program documentation, including Red Carpet Lease Option provisions. Participation is voluntary but encouraged for authorized Ford and Lincoln dealerships. Participating dealers are required to sign a Dealer Agreement for each New Vehicle Purchase Program sale or lease.
- Authorized Dealer Status: Dealerships must be authorized dealers for the specific Ford or Lincoln product being sold, as per their Sales and Service Agreement.
- Transparent Pricing Agreement: The AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement must clearly detail the AZ-Plan price, any dealer-added options, negative equity on trades, gifts, and all allowable fees and taxes. Customers must receive a copy of the factory invoice showing the AZ-Plan price and a completed, signed Pricing Agreement.
- Audit and Record Keeping: Dealership commission claims are subject to audits. Dealerships must maintain all records related to New Vehicle Purchase Program transactions, including the AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement, for at least two years and make them available for Ford Motor Company audits.
- Employee Sales Conduct: All sales or lease contracts under the Purchase Plan must be conducted by dealership employees. Commissions may be withheld or charged back if non-employees, brokers, or agents are involved in Plan transactions.
Consequences of Non-Compliance:
Ford takes abuse of the New Vehicle Purchase Program seriously. Non-compliance can lead to:
- Program Monitoring: The purchase, lease, and disposal of vehicles under the program are regularly monitored for abuse.
- Customer Contact and Explanation: Customers not complying with program requirements will be contacted to explain the circumstances.
- Privilege Suspension/Withdrawal: Ford may withdraw or suspend participation privileges if violations of the program or Company policy are determined.
- Financial Reimbursement: Employees, retirees, or surviving spouses may be required to reimburse Ford for the full dealer commission paid due to program abuse.
- Disciplinary Action: Ford employees may face disciplinary action, including termination of employment, for program violations.
Dealer-to-Customer Gifts and Fees:
The program outlines specific guidelines regarding permissible gifts and fees between dealerships and AZ-Plan customers.
- Nominal Gifts: Family AZ-Plan customers can accept gifts or services of nominal value (dealership cost of $50 or less), unless prohibited by state law. These gifts must be comparable to those offered to retail customers and cannot exceed $50 in dealership cost. Acceptable examples include calendars, apparel, gas cards, or a car wash. Dealerships cannot undervalue services to fit within the $50 limit.
- Referral Fees (AZ-Plan): Family AZ-Plan sponsors can accept referral fees of $50 or less for sales occurring after September 11, 2006, provided these fees are comparable to retail referral fees.
- Document Fees: Dealerships are permitted to assess document fees up to $75 on each AZ-Plan delivery, unless state or local laws dictate otherwise. Dealers must comply with applicable regulations. In states with lower doc fee limits, dealers are capped at that lower amount. In states allowing more than $75, the cap for Plan customers remains at $75. In states requiring uniform doc fees, dealers may charge $75 to Plan customers and indicate any excess is reimbursed by Ford. Doc fees should be detailed on the AXZD Plan Pricing Agreement.
- FordDirect Fees: New Vehicle Purchase Program customers can use FordDirect services, and participating dealers may pay FordDirect’s fees without violating program rules, provided these fees are not passed on to the Plan customers.
Financing, Insurance, Titles, and Taxes:
- Financing: Customers can obtain financing from any source. Ford Motor Credit Company is an option, with more information available at www.fordcredit.com.
- Warranty: Vehicles purchased or leased under the AZ-Plan are covered by the same warranties and policies as retail vehicles.
- Taxes and Fees: Customers are responsible for all federal, state, and local taxes, license, and title fees.
- Co-signers and Co-owners: Non-eligible family members can be co-signers or co-makers on financing agreements and co-owners on titles, but the primary vehicle user must be the AZ-Plan eligible member.
- Insurance: Customers must provide their own liability and collision insurance. Lessees should confirm specified coverage minimums with the dealer before obtaining insurance and signing lease papers.
- Titling and Registration: Vehicles must be registered and remain in the customer’s possession for at least six months from purchase or lease. For individuals, vehicles must be registered or titled to the AZ-Plan eligible individual, although non-eligible members can be co-signers or co-owners. Vehicles can be registered to a customer’s trust if the customer’s name is in the trust name. Commercial registration or titling, and commercial use, are not permitted under the AZ-Plan.
Pricing and Incentives for Ford Program Cars
Understanding the pricing structure is crucial to appreciate the benefits of the Ford AZ-Plan.
- Factory Invoice Transparency: Dealers are required to provide a true copy of the factory invoice, clearly showing the New Vehicle Purchase Program price labeled as “AZ-Plan.” Customers should also receive a complete and signed AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement. It’s important to review this agreement carefully and not sign it if it’s blank or unclear. All added items, including trade-in negative equity and gifts, must be documented on this form.
- AZ-Plan Price Definition: The AZ-Plan price is found in the “AZ-Plan” box on the factory invoice. This price includes advertising, finance costs, transportation, fuel charges, and Ford administrative fees. Dealerships cannot add extra charges for these items.
- Price in Effect at Invoicing: Customers are entitled to the AZ-Plan price in effect when the vehicle was invoiced. Any price increase refunds from Ford to the dealer after ordering but before shipment must be passed on to the customer.
- Incentive Compatibility: Ford may offer incentives or rebates, which are generally available to New Vehicle Purchase Program customers in addition to the Plan price, unless specifically excluded. Customers should inquire with their dealer about applicable incentives.
Pricing Formula:
The AZ-Plan price is calculated based on a formula related to the dealer invoice:
| AZ-Plan Price Calculation | Formula |
|---|---|
| Dealer Invoice – Holdback – Advertising Assessment + Administration Fee* |
*Administration Fee: $275 for 2010 Model Year vehicles, $75 for 2009 and prior Model Year vehicles.
This formula ensures that AZ-Plan participants receive pricing close to the dealer’s actual cost, offering significant savings compared to standard retail purchases.
Process and Documentation for Purchasing a Ford Program Car
Purchasing a vehicle through the Ford AZ-Plan involves a straightforward process with specific documentation and steps.
Sales and Delivery Requirements:
- Deposit: Dealerships may require a deposit when a vehicle is ordered. It’s important to have a written agreement regarding the deposit amount and the conditions under which it may be retained by the dealership if the customer does not take delivery.
- Lease Security Deposit: Lease transactions may require a refundable security deposit, typically equal to one month’s payment, rounded up to the nearest $25. This deposit is refunded at lease end, provided lease terms are met.
- Dealer-Installed Options and Services: Dealerships can charge negotiated prices (at or above dealer cost) for undercoating, dealer-installed options, extended service contracts, and other value-added services. These must be priced and listed separately on the buyer’s order and the AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement.
- Delivery and Settlement Timeframe: Dealerships will notify customers when their vehicle is ready for delivery. Customers are expected to accept delivery and finalize settlement within five working days of notification. After this period, vehicle disposition becomes the dealership’s responsibility, unless otherwise agreed.
Understanding and Generating a PIN:
A Personal Identification Number (PIN) is essential for purchasing a vehicle under the AZ-Plan. It’s a unique code generated by the Ford employee/retiree (sponsor).
What is a PIN?
A PIN is a unique numeric code required for each vehicle purchase under the AZ-Plan. It acts as your authorization to receive the program discount.
PIN Generation Process for Sponsors:
Eligible Ford employees or retirees (sponsors) can generate PINs for themselves or eligible family members. Sponsors typically access a Ford website to generate and manage PINs.
Requesting a PIN as a Family Member:
- Access the Website: Go to www.myplan.ford.com and select “Request A PIN.”
- Sponsor Notification: The PIN request process sends an email notification to your Ford sponsor to approve your PIN request.
- Sponsor Response: Your sponsor needs to respond to your email request to either approve or deny the PIN.
- Notification of Approval or Denial: You will receive an email confirming whether your PIN request was approved (including the PIN) or denied. The status is also visible on the website when you log in. Allow at least 24 hours for sponsor response.
- PIN Request Steps on Website:
- Confirm your profile information (name, address, email). Ensure the name and address match your ID.
- Select a sponsor if you have multiple sponsors.
- Enter the last four digits of your Social Security Number* (for dealer verification only).
- Specify vehicle and contact preferences.
- Verify information and submit your PIN request.
*The last four digits of your SSN are used solely for dealer verification to protect your PIN and sponsor. This information is not used for other purposes and is protected by the website’s privacy policy.
Sponsor Approval/Denial:
Sponsors are responsible for managing and responding to PIN requests. Their decision may be influenced by the number of PINs they have remaining for the calendar year, as each sponsor has a limited allocation.
Using Your PIN at the Dealership:
- Inform the Dealer: Immediately identify yourself as an AZ-Plan eligible customer when you contact the dealer.
- Provide PIN and Last Four of SSN: Give the dealer only the last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN) and your seven-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). This combination is your New Vehicle Purchase Plan ID.
- Eligibility Verification: The dealer will enter your Purchase Plan ID into their system to verify your eligibility and lock in the approval for the transaction. If you decide not to purchase from that dealer, request them to cancel the locked-in approval.
- Request Invoice Copy: Ask for a copy of the vehicle invoice showing the “AZ” plan price in the box labeled “AZ Plan” in the lower right corner. This is the confirmed AZ-Plan price.
- Review and Sign Pricing Agreement: The dealer will complete and ask you to sign the AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement. Review it carefully before signing to ensure you understand the price calculation. Ask for clarification on any unclear terms. After signing, receive a copy for your records.
[Image of a Ford dealership, representing the place to use the AZ-Plan PIN]
Visit a participating Ford dealership to redeem your AZ-Plan PIN and purchase your new vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ford Program Cars (AZ-Plan)
To further clarify the Ford AZ-Plan, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
-
How does the AZ-Plan program work?
Plan participants purchase vehicles at the AZ-Plan Price using a PIN generated by a Ford employee or retiree sponsor. More details are available on the “How it Works” section of www.myplan.ford.com. -
How do I get a PIN?
Request a PIN through the “Request a PIN” page or button on the www.myplan.ford.com homepage, following the five-step process. -
How does the PIN Request process work?
It’s an email notification to your Ford sponsor to approve a PIN for you. Upon approval, you receive an email with the PIN. Denials are also communicated via email and on the website. -
How long does PIN approval take?
Sponsors are requested to respond within 24 hours. If you haven’t received a response, contact your sponsor directly. -
How many PINs can I request per year?
Each Ford employee/retiree gets four PINs annually, for themselves and their eligible members. Sponsors have a limited supply, so requests may be denied if they’ve used their allocation. -
What if I don’t use an approved PIN?
Inform your sponsor so they can cancel the PIN for future use. PINs are non-transferable, and the vehicle must be registered in your name. -
How long is a PIN valid?
PINs are active for 12 months from the issue date. -
How can I retrieve a forgotten PIN?
Your last 3 PIN requests and their status are on the www.myplan.ford.com homepage. For PINs not requested through the website, contact your sponsor. -
How do I use my PIN to get a vehicle and discount?
Provide your PIN, last name, and last four SSN digits to the dealer, who will verify your eligibility and apply the AZ-Plan price. -
Which vehicles are eligible for the Plan?
Check the “Vehicles and Pricing” tab on www.myplan.ford.com for a list. Most Ford vehicles are eligible, with a few exceptions listed in the Product Eligibility section, which can change, so verify online. -
Are SVT vehicles eligible?
Yes, but dealer participation is voluntary, and limited-supply vehicles like SVT models may be harder to obtain through the Plan. -
Can I use the Plan at any dealer?
The Plan is available at participating U.S. dealers, but participation is voluntary. If one dealer declines, you can try another. -
Can I purchase or lease with the Plan?
Yes, both purchase and lease are valid options. -
Can I trade in a vehicle with this program?
Yes, but trade-in allowances are separate from the Plan. Trade-in value is determined by the dealer based on vehicle condition, market value, etc. -
Are dealer demos or used vehicles included?
Only new vehicles and new vehicle demonstrator units are eligible. Used vehicles are not. -
Are prior model year vehicles eligible?
Yes, prior model year vehicles are eligible while supplies last. Check with the dealer for details. -
Can I get a vehicle for my business or someone else?
No, vehicles must be titled and registered in the eligible member’s name for at least six months and cannot be for commercial use or for another person. -
Are other items covered by the Plan?
No, only the vehicle itself. Dealer-installed options, warranties, accessories, etc., are not covered and are negotiated separately with the dealer. -
Am I eligible for other incentives?
Yes, generally, Plan participants are eligible for public incentives and many dealer incentives, though some may be incompatible. Dealers can confirm eligibility for specific incentives. -
What is AZ-Plan pricing, and is it a good deal?
AZ-Plan pricing is close to dealer net wholesale, representing significant savings. -
What is X-Plan pricing, and is AZ-Plan better?
X-Plan is around 1% above dealer invoice. AZ-Plan offers even greater savings. -
How long is the Plan program in effect?
There’s no set expiration, but Ford can modify, remove eligibility, or cancel the program at any time. -
Can dealers charge a document fee?
Yes, up to $75, unless state/local laws specify otherwise. State regulations vary, and dealers must comply with local laws regarding doc fees. -
Do dealers profit from Plan sales/leases?
Yes, dealers receive a commission from Ford for each Plan transaction. -
How do I change my profile information on My Profile?
Click the “My Profile” link on www.myplan.ford.com to edit profile, change password, or unsubscribe. -
Why do I lose data using browser back/forward buttons?
Use the website’s “Back” button instead of browser buttons to avoid data loss. -
What is “Unsubscribe”?
“Unsubscribing” means you opt out of receiving AZ-Plan promotions or survey requests via email. See the privacy policy for details. -
How do I confirm the A-Plan price?
Ask the dealer to show you the vehicle invoice and point out the “AZ Plan” price, located in the labeled box near the bottom. -
Can I find Plan prices and incentives before contacting a dealer?
Yes, the “Vehicles & Pricing” tab on www.myplan.ford.com lists eligible vehicles with starting MSRP and Plan pricing. It also links to Ford websites for more pricing and incentive details, though dealer information is always the most current. -
Are Mercury vehicles still eligible?
No, Mercury vehicles are no longer eligible for AXZ-Plans since January 3, 2011. Ford continues to support Mercury owners with parts and service at Ford and Lincoln dealers and honors warranties.
Contact Information for Ford Program Car Inquiries
For further assistance or questions regarding the Ford AZ-Plan or related topics, please use the following contact information:
| Category | Website | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Plan Information | www.myplan.ford.com | 1-800-348-7709 |
| Product Information | www.ford.com | 1-800-392-3673 |
| Product Information (Lincoln) | www.lincoln.com | 1-800-521-4140 |
| Financing Resources | www.fordcredit.com | 1-800-727-7000 |
This comprehensive guide should provide a clear understanding of what a Ford program car is, specifically within the context of the Ford AXZ-Plan. This program offers significant benefits to Ford employees, retirees, and their families, making new Ford and Lincoln vehicles more accessible and affordable. By understanding the eligibility, policies, and processes, eligible individuals can effectively utilize this valuable program.
