July 31, 2013 – It’s no secret that Americans enjoy a tremendous level of freedom not experienced anywhere else in the world. But we also must recognize that the very freedoms we enjoy come at a price, paid by members of our US military and the families they leave behind.
As a sign of recognition, respect and well-deserved honor for our U.S. military, there are a number of companies across the nation that have implemented programs to assure that our veterans are able to easily transition back into society with a quality vehicle as soon as possible.
Vets-Cars
Vets-Cars is an association of automotive dealers from across the country who believe that our country’s veterans deserve a car buying experience free of gimmicks and guesswork. Participating dealers offer the highest level of honor and service to the vets who come in to purchase a vehicle. Vets-Cars operates under the motto: Honesty Efficiency Respect Openness. That’s exactly what each dealer offers with low, upfront pricing for our nation’s heroes and their families.
DriveTime Military Merit Program
DriveTime honors our nation’s heroes by offering to put all military members, regardless of their credit, in a great used vehicle with a three-year, 36,000 mile warranty. In addition, active-duty military members with at least two additional years left in service will receive a three percent reduction on their annual percentage rate over non-military applicants. DriveTime locations are currently popping up near all sorts of military bases so servicemen and women might consider this convenient option when looking at a San Antonio car dealership around Fort Sam Houston.
Chrysler – Dodge – Jeep Military Advantage Program
Chrysler Dodge Jeep dealers are honoring our military veterans by offering a $500 cash allowance toward the purchase of a new vehicle. In addition, they offer oil, lube and filter services for up to three years through their Military Incentive Program.
General Motors Military Discount Program
General Motors honors all members of the US Military—from those in active duty to members of the reserve to veterans and retirees (and their families)—preferred pricing and special incentives on the purchase of most new GM models. During certain times of the year, they offer additional support by way of donations to charities benefiting wounded veterans with the purchase of any new vehicle. USAA members also enjoy an additional $750 off their purchase, in addition to all the aforementioned benefits.
Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits
Wounded veterans, and those whose health challenges were exasperated during combat will be happy to know that the Department of Veterans Affairs provides benefits and additional compensation for veterans who will need a modified vehicle to assist in their continued mobility. Details and eligibility requirements are found on their website.
Veterans Advantage Car Search
Veterans Advantage offers military veterans and their families the opportunity to research vehicles they are interested in (complete with specifications, pricing and safety details), find new or used vehicles through their online dealer inventory or to sell their old vehicle via the online classifieds available at the site.
Ford Military Appreciation Program
Ford offers military members and their families great discounts toward the lease or purchase of any new Ford truck, car or SUV. Certain exclusions apply (including, of course, the ever-popular Mustang Shelby GT among others). Active duty members are also offered the opportunity to purchase a new Ford through the Exchange New Car Sales, the factory authorized Ford and Lincoln dealer program offered at most Army, Navy and Air Force bases throughout the country and even aboard some Navy ships. If you’ve served this country and are considering a new vehicle, be sure to inquire about the benefits and options that could shorten your search and improve your experience.
Chuck is a technical writer who lives in the Ft. Worth, Texas, area.