Ford Program Cars: A Comprehensive Guide to AZ-Plan Discounts

1. Overview of Ford Program Cars

Ford Motor Company deeply values the dedication and loyalty of its employees, retirees, and their families. To show this appreciation, Ford offers exclusive New Vehicle Purchase Programs, primarily the AZ-Plan, designed to provide eligible individuals with the opportunity to drive new Ford and Lincoln vehicles at significant savings. These Ford Program Cars are a fantastic benefit, especially for those already part of the Ford family or connected to it. The AZ-Plan not only rewards loyalty but also strategically encourages brand advocacy, particularly among those who may have previously considered competitive brands.

2. Program Descriptions and Eligibility for Ford Program Cars

The cornerstone of Ford program cars discounts is the AZ-Plan, encompassing both the A-Plan for active employees and the Z-Plan for retirees and surviving spouses. Eligible individuals under these plans can generate up to four (4) Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) annually, each valid for the purchase or lease of a new vehicle.

AZ-Plan Eligibility Breakdown:

A-Plan (Active Employees):
- All active full-time hourly and regular salaried employees from their hire date.
- Regular part-time hourly and salaried employees eligible for medical benefits.
- Employees on approved leave of absence (during leave and medical benefits).
- Employees on layoff (for the first 12 months).
- Employees taking separation packages (AXZD-Plan privileges detailed in the package).
Z-Plan (Retirees & Surviving Spouses):
- Hourly retirees receiving normal, early, or disability retirement benefits (as long as medical benefits are received).
- Salaried retirees under the General Retirement Plan (including those retiring between 50-55 with deferred benefits, while receiving benefits).
- Surviving spouses of active employees or retirees under the General Retirement Plan or Ford-UAW Retirement Plan.
- Deferred Vested Retirees while receiving a Ford pension check.
Family Eligibility for Ford Program Cars:
The benefits of Ford program cars extend beyond employees and retirees to their immediate family members, fostering loyalty across generations. “Immediate family” includes:
- Spouse
- Parents (including step-parents)
- Spouse’s parents
- Grandparents
- Spouse’s grandparents
- Sons and daughters (including in-laws and step-children)
- Grandchildren
- Brothers and sisters (including in-laws, half and step)
- Same-sex domestic partners of active eligible employees*
- Immediate family members of eligible same-sex domestic partners*
* For same-sex domestic partners, Ford requires a notarized affidavit, dated before the sale, confirming the partnership. Specific criteria for same-sex domestic partnerships must be met, including shared residence, joint responsibility, and not being married to a third party.
Subsidiary and Affiliated Companies:
Employees of approved subsidiary and affiliated companies/organizations may also be eligible, based on agreements at the time of approval.
Ineligibility after Death:
When both the employee/retiree and their spouse are deceased, surviving family members lose eligibility for the program.

3. Proof of Eligibility for AZ-Plan Ford Program Cars

While purchasing Ford program cars under the AZ-Plan, proof of eligibility is streamlined for convenience. Purchasers primarily need to provide their PIN and the last four digits of their Social Security Number at the point of sale. This simplifies the process while maintaining program integrity.

However, it’s important to note that Ford Motor Company reserves the right to audit AZ-Plan sales. During such audits, employees or retirees might be required to provide documentation proving their relationship to the purchaser, ensuring the program benefits are correctly applied and to prevent misuse of Ford program cars discounts.

4. Products Eligible Under Ford Program Cars Discounts

Eligible Ford and Lincoln Vehicles:

The Ford program cars discount applies to a wide range of new vehicles. Generally, current and prior model year Ford and Lincoln vehicles sold in the United States are eligible. It is always recommended to confirm vehicle eligibility with your local dealer, as availability can vary.

Order or Inventory: Vehicles can be ordered directly from production or, if the dealership agrees, selected from the dealer’s existing inventory. Participation in the Ford program cars plan is voluntary for dealerships, but authorized Ford dealers must adhere to program guidelines if they choose to participate.
Prior Model Year Vehicles: Take advantage of potential savings on prior model year vehicles while supplies last under the AZ-Plans. Details on availability can be obtained from your selling dealer.
Demonstrator Units: Dealer demonstrator vehicles, regardless of mileage, are also eligible for purchase under the AZ-Plan, offering another avenue to save on Ford program cars. No additional discounts are permitted beyond incentives compatible with the AZ-Plan.
Brand Eligibility: UAW-represented hourly employees, retirees, surviving spouses, and their immediate family members are eligible for Ford, Lincoln, and (historically) Mercury purchases or leases, providing a broad selection of Ford program cars.

Ineligible Vehicles:

While the program is extensive, certain vehicles are excluded from Ford program cars discounts:

Mercury Vehicles: All Mercury vehicles are ineligible.
Specific Commercial/Specialty and Low-Supply Vehicles: Certain commercial use or specialty vehicles and models deemed “low-supply” by Ford are not eligible. For a detailed list of ineligible models and model-year vehicles, refer to the Ineligible Products document.
Used Vehicles: The AZ-Plan is strictly for new vehicles. Used vehicles are not included in the Ford program cars program.
Driver Training Vehicles: Vehicles designated for driver training purposes are also ineligible.

5. Program Policies for Ford Program Cars

Understanding the policies is crucial to correctly utilize the Ford program cars benefits. These policies are designed to ensure fairness, prevent misuse, and maintain the integrity of the program.

Customer/Sponsor Obligations and Rules:

PIN Misuse Prohibition: Providing PINs to customers referred by dealership employees or using dealership employees as brokers to find AZ-Plan customers is strictly forbidden. Selling PINs to anyone is a direct violation of program rules and can lead to suspension of AZ-Plan eligibility and potential employment termination. This ensures the Ford program cars discounts are exclusively for intended beneficiaries.
PIN Usage Limits: Vehicles purchased or leased through an employee, retiree, or surviving spouse’s sponsorship count against their annual PIN allocation.
No Unauthorized Fees or Discounts: Soliciting or accepting money, items of value, or discounts not explicitly defined in program documents from dealerships or dealership-related entities is prohibited. The pricing structure for Ford program cars is transparent and should not be circumvented.
Vehicle Delivery Responsibility: If a customer orders a vehicle under the AZ-Plan but cannot take delivery from the designated dealership, they must promptly inform the dealership and avoid signing any acceptance or delivery documents.
Warranty Dispute Resolution Program (DRP): AZ-Plan customers are required to utilize the Dispute Resolution Program (DRP) for warranty-related disputes before pursuing legal action. Failure to do so may result in suspension of the sponsoring employee’s Purchase Plan privileges. The DRP, administered by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), is a cost-free program for resolving warranty issues on Ford program cars and other Ford 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 all terms outlined in the program documents, including Red Carpet Lease Option provisions. Dealership participation in the Ford program cars program is voluntary. Participating dealerships must sign a Dealer Agreement on the AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement for each AZ-Plan sale or lease.
Authorized Dealer Requirement: Dealerships must be authorized Ford or Lincoln dealers for the specific product being sold.
Transparent Pricing Agreement: The AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement must clearly identify the AZ-Plan price, dealer-added options, trade-in equity, gifts, and allowable fees and taxes. Customers must receive a copy of the factory invoice showing the AZ-Plan price and a signed AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement. This ensures price transparency for Ford program cars transactions.
Audit Compliance: Dealership commission claims are subject to audit. Dealerships must provide records to Ford Motor Company for transaction audits and retain all relevant documents (including the AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement) for at least two years.
Direct Sales Contracts: All sales or lease contracts under the Purchase Plan must be conducted by dealership employees. Commissions will be withheld or charged back if non-employees (brokers, agents) are involved in Plan transactions.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

Ford monitors the New Vehicle Purchase Program for abuse. Violations can lead to inappropriate dealer commission payments, impacting company profits and resources that could be used for future product programs and employee profit sharing. Maintaining program integrity for Ford program cars is a collective responsibility.
Customers not complying with program requirements will be contacted for explanation.
Violation of program provisions or Company policy may result in withdrawal or suspension of participation privileges for the employee, retiree, or surviving spouse. They may also be required to reimburse Ford for dealer commissions paid and face disciplinary action, including employment termination.
Sponsoring employees, retirees, or surviving spouses are held responsible and subject to sanctions even if the violating customer is not a Company employee, emphasizing the importance of responsible PIN distribution for Ford program cars.

Guidelines on Gifts and Fees:

Nominal Gifts: Family AZ-Plan customers can accept nominal gifts or services (dealership cost of $50 or less), provided it’s not prohibited by state law and is comparable to gifts offered on retail sales. Acceptable examples include calendars, apparel, gas cards, or a car wash. Dealerships cannot undervalue services to stay within the $50 limit. Gifts exceeding $50 are not permitted, even if offered to non-Plan customers.
Referral Fees (AZ-Plan): Family AZ-Plan sponsors can accept referral fees of $50 or less for sales occurring after September 11, 2006, if comparable to retail referral fees.
Document Fees: Dealerships can charge up to $75 in documentary fees per delivery to AZ-Plan purchasers, unless state or local laws specify otherwise. Dealers must comply with applicable regulations.
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 customer.

Financing, Insurance, Titles, and Taxes for Ford Program Cars:

Financing: Customers can obtain financing from any source. Ford Motor Credit Company options are available at www.fordcredit.com.
Warranty: Vehicles purchased or leased under the AZ-Plan are covered by the same warranties 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 loans and co-owners on vehicle titles, but the primary vehicle user must be the AZ-Plan eligible member.
Insurance: AZ-Plan customers must provide their own liability and collision insurance for both purchases and leases, with specified minimum coverage for leases.
Titling and Registration:
- Vehicles must be retained and registered in the customer’s possession for at least six months from purchase or lease date.
- Individuals: Vehicles must be registered or titled to the AZ-Plan eligible individual. Trusts are permitted if the customer’s name is included in the trust name.
- Commercial: AZ-Plan vehicles cannot be registered or titled to a business or for commercial use. Ford program cars are intended for personal use.

6. Pricing and Incentives for Ford Program Cars

Understanding the pricing structure and available incentives is key to maximizing savings on Ford program cars.

Factory Invoice Transparency: Dealers are required to provide a copy of the factory invoice showing the AZ-Plan price. The AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement should detail all costs. Customers should review and understand this agreement before signing and ensure it’s not blank.
AZ-Plan Price Components: The AZ-Plan price, found in the “AZ-Plan” box on the factory invoice, includes advertising, finance costs, transportation, fuel charges, and Company administrative fees. Dealerships cannot add extra charges for these items.
Price Guarantee: Customers are entitled to the price in effect at the time of vehicle invoicing. Any price increase refunds from Ford to the dealer after ordering but before shipment must be passed on to the customer.
Incentives and Rebates: Unless specifically excluded, most incentives and rebates are available to AZ-Plan customers in addition to the Plan price, further enhancing the value of Ford program cars. Consult your dealer for current incentive details.

Vehicle Trade-in Allowance:

Trade-in allowances are not part of the AZ-Plan. Dealerships will assess trade-in value based on market conditions, vehicle condition, and valuation guides. Customers are also free to sell their trade-in vehicle privately.

Pricing Formula:

The AZ-Plan price is calculated as follows:

AZ-Plan Price Calculation	Formula
Formula	Dealer Invoice – Holdback – Advertising Assessment + Administration Fee* (See sample invoice)
Administration Fee	$275 Administration Fee for 2010MY vehicles, $75 Administration Fee for 2009MY and prior vehicles. This fee contributes to managing the New Vehicle Purchase Program, ensuring its continued operation for Ford program cars* benefits.

7. Process and Documentation for Purchasing Ford Program Cars

A clear process and proper documentation are essential for a smooth purchase experience when utilizing Ford program cars discounts.

Sales and Delivery Requirements:

Deposits: Dealerships may require a deposit when ordering a vehicle. It’s crucial to have a written agreement outlining deposit amounts and refund conditions if the customer declines delivery.
Lease Security Deposits: Lease transactions may require a refundable security deposit, typically equivalent to one month’s payment.
Dealer-Installed Options and Services: Dealerships may charge negotiated prices for undercoating, dealer-installed options, extended service contracts, and other value-added services. These must be priced separately and detailed on the buyer’s order and AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement to maintain transparency in Ford program cars transactions.
Vehicle Delivery Notification: Dealerships will notify customers when their vehicle is ready for delivery. Customers are expected to accept delivery and finalize payment within five working days of notification. After this period, vehicle disposition becomes the dealership’s responsibility, unless otherwise agreed upon.

Understanding and Generating Your PIN (Personal Identification Number):

A PIN is essential for accessing Ford program cars discounts. It’s a unique code generated by the Ford employee/retiree (sponsor).

PIN Generation Process: Sponsors generate PINs for themselves or eligible family members. The PIN is then presented at an authorized Ford dealership to secure the AZ-Plan discount on Ford program cars.
Requesting a PIN: Eligible family members request PINs through www.myplan.ford.com via the “Request A PIN” link. This sends an email notification to the sponsor for approval.
Sponsor Approval/Denial: Sponsors approve or deny PIN requests. Approval depends on the sponsor’s remaining PIN allocation.
PIN Request Steps:
1. Profile Confirmation: Verify personal information (name, address, email) is accurate and matches identification.
2. Sponsor Selection: Choose a sponsor if multiple are available.
3. SSN Entry: Enter the last four digits of your Social Security Number for verification.
4. Vehicle and Contact Preferences: Specify vehicle interest and contact details.
5. Information Verification and Submission: Review and submit the PIN request.
The SSN’s last four digits are solely for dealer verification to protect PIN security and are not used for other purposes, aligned with the site’s privacy policy.
Sponsor Responsibility: Sponsors manage PIN approvals/denials, influenced by their PIN allocation.
Using Your PIN: The PIN, along with the last four digits of your SSN, is presented at the dealership to obtain the AZ-Plan discount on Ford program cars.

Obtaining Your Vehicle with the AZ-Plan Discount:

Dealer Notification: Immediately inform the dealer of your AZ-Plan eligibility.
PIN and SSN Presentation: Provide the dealer with your PIN and the last four digits of your SSN. This combination is your New Vehicle Purchase Plan ID.
Eligibility Verification: The dealer will input your Purchase Plan ID to verify eligibility. Once verified, the dealer can lock in the approval for the transaction. If you choose not to proceed at that dealership, request cancellation of the locked-in approval.
Invoice Review: Request a copy of the vehicle invoice showing the “AZ-Plan” price in the designated box in the lower right corner.
AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement: The dealer will complete and ask you to sign the AXZD-Plan Pricing Agreement. Review it carefully before signing, ensuring you understand all price calculations. Obtain a signed copy for your records, confirming your advantageous purchase of Ford program cars.

8. Frequently Asked Questions About Ford Program Cars (FAQs)

This FAQ section addresses common queries about Ford program cars and the AZ-Plan, providing quick answers to enhance understanding and ease of use.

How does the AZ-Plan program for Ford program cars work?
Eligible participants purchase vehicles at the AZ-Plan Price using a PIN generated by their Ford sponsor. See the “How it Works” section at www.myplan.ford.com for detailed rules and information.
How do I get a PIN for Ford program cars?
Request a PIN on the “Request a PIN” page or button on the www.myplan.ford.com homepage. Follow the five steps to request a PIN from your Sponsor.
How does the PIN Request process work?
It’s an email notification to your Ford sponsor to approve a PIN for you. Sponsors also see a website notification upon login. If approved, you receive an email with the PIN and it appears on your website PIN Request table. If denied (e.g., sponsor out of PINs), you’ll also receive an email and a denial message on your PIN Request table.
How long does PIN approval take?
Timing varies by sponsor. Sponsors are asked to respond within 24 hours. If no response, contact your sponsor directly.
How many PINs can I request per sponsor annually?
Each Ford employee/retiree gets four PINs yearly, including those they use themselves. Sponsors may run out of PINs, leading to request denials.
What if I don’t use an approved PIN for Ford program cars?
Inform your sponsor, so they can cancel the PIN for future use. PINs are non-transferable, and vehicles must be registered in your name.
How long is a PIN valid for Ford program cars?
PINs are valid for 12 months from the issue date.
How do I retrieve a forgotten PIN?
Your last 3 PIN requests and their status are on the www.myplan.ford.com homepage. For PINs not from this site, contact your sponsor.
How do I use my PIN to purchase Ford program cars and get the discount?
Provide your PIN, last name, and last four SSN digits to the dealer. They verify eligibility and apply the AZ-Plan price.
Which vehicles are eligible Ford program cars?
See the “Vehicles and Pricing” tab at www.myplan.ford.com and the Product Eligibility section for exclusions, which can change. Check the website for current eligibility.
Are SVT vehicles eligible Ford program cars?
Yes, but dealer participation is voluntary.
Can I get the AZ-Plan price at any dealer?
The program is at participating U.S. dealers. Dealer participation is voluntary; inform them of your AZ-Plan eligibility early. If one dealer declines, try another. Limited-supply vehicles like SVT models may be harder to obtain via the Plan.
Can I purchase or lease Ford program cars?
Yes, both purchase and lease are valid options under the AZ-Plan.
Can I trade in a vehicle with this program?
Yes, but trade-in allowances aren’t covered by the AZ-Plan. Trade-in value is determined by the dealer based on vehicle condition and market value. You can also sell your vehicle privately.
Are demos or used vehicles eligible Ford program cars?
No, the Plan is for new vehicles only. New vehicle demonstrators are eligible at the AZ-Plan price.
Are prior model year vehicles eligible Ford program cars?
Yes, while supplies last. Check with your dealer for details on prior model year availability under AZ-Plans.
Can I buy a vehicle for my business or someone else under Ford program cars?
No. Vehicles must be titled and registered in the eligible individual’s name for at least six months and are for personal use only.
Are other items covered by the Plan?
No. Dealer-installed options, extended warranties, accessories, etc., are not covered and are negotiated separately with the dealer.
Am I eligible for other incentives on Ford program cars?
Yes, often. AZ-Plan participants are eligible for most public and many dealer incentives, though some may be incompatible. Dealers can confirm applicable incentives.
What is AZ-Plan pricing, and is it a good deal on Ford program cars?
AZ-Plan pricing is dealer net wholesale—essentially the dealer’s cost from Ford, representing substantial savings.
What is X-Plan pricing, and is it better than AZ-Plan?
X-Plan pricing is about 1% above dealer invoice. AZ-Plan pricing offers better savings than X-Plan.
How long is the Ford program cars AZ-Plan in effect?
No expiration date, but Ford can modify, remove eligibility, or cancel the program anytime.
Can dealers charge a document fee for Ford program cars purchases?
Yes, up to $75, unless state/local laws dictate otherwise. Dealers must comply with local regulations. Some states may limit doc fees to less than $75, others may allow more, but the AZ-Plan customer cap remains at $75.
Do dealers profit from Plan purchases?
Yes. Dealers receive a commission from Ford on each Plan transaction, making participation worthwhile.
How do I change my profile information on My Profile?
Click “My Profile” on the website navigation bar to edit your profile, change your password, or unsubscribe.
Why do I lose data using browser back/forward buttons?
Browser navigation issues can occur. Use the site’s back button instead.
What does “Unsubscribe” mean?
“Unsubscribe” opts you out of Ford emails about AZ-Plan promotions or surveys. See the privacy policy for details.
How do I confirm the A-Plan Price on a vehicle?
As an AZ-Plan participant, you can see the dealer invoice. The AZ-Plan price is in the “AZ Plan” box on the factory invoice, inclusive of fees. See a sample invoice here.
Can I find Plan prices and incentives before contacting a dealer for Ford program cars?
Yes. The “Vehicles & Pricing” tab at www.myplan.ford.com lists eligible vehicles with starting MSRP and Plan prices. Links to Ford websites offer AXZ-Plan pricing on dealer inventory and current incentives. Information is regularly updated but check with dealers for the latest details.
Are Mercury vehicles still eligible for AXZ-Plans?
No, Mercury vehicles are ineligible since January 3, 2011. Ford continues to support Mercury owners with parts and service at Ford and Lincoln dealers and honors warranties.

9. Contact Information for Ford Program Cars

For further assistance and information regarding Ford program cars and the AZ-Plan, refer to the contact details below:

Category	Website	Information
Plan Information	www.myplan.ford.com	1-800-348-7709
Product Information	www.ford.com	1-800-392-3673
	www.lincoln.com	1-800-521-4140
Financing	www.fordcredit.com	1-800-727-7000

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