8 perks you can get as a car owner at Costco

Costco shoppers can get great deals on items ranging from dashboard cameras to wax kits to wiper blades to bike racks. The store also offers motor oil, batteries for cars and trucks, emergency kits, and other essential items. Many of the items can be bought online, while certain larger products are only available in store.

Costco sells gasoline at a majority of its locations, and the gas for sale at Costco is consistently cheaper than that found at neighboring stations. In fact, in most states, the savings members get in gas prices will more than offset the annual Costco membership fee.

Read more: I belong to both Costco and BJ's Wholesale Club — here's why it's worth it to pay for both memberships

Costco partners with multiple national rental-car chains and offers members a notable discount on cars rented through Costco Travel. Costco Travel also has deals on flights, hotels, and cruises.

Many Costco locations have tire centers adjacent to the warehouse space, and tires bought from Costco are significantly more affordable than those bought from dealerships or other retailers. Michelin-brand tires even come with an immediate $70 off when bought at Costco.

While the Costco Insurance Agency no longer offers car insurance plans for individuals or families, the retailer has a partnership in place with Ameriprise Auto & Home Insurance that sees members saving nearly $600 in insurance costs the first year after switching to the program.

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Costco works with a wide network of automotive service shops through which members can enjoy 15% discounts on repairs, maintenance, auto parts, and even on many accessories bought through these third parties.

If you've never seen a car wash at your local Costco, that's because most locations don't have one.

But apparently there are 11 Costcos in America that offer a car-wash service, including a spot-free rinse, wax, and tire shine. Six of the locations are in California, two in Arizona, and one each in Idaho, Washington, and Tennessee.

You can't actually buy a car at Costco, but if you buy a new or used vehicle through the Costco Auto Program, you are connected to a trusted dealership with which Costco has already negotiated a low price on dozens of makes and models. There is no haggling involved, and the sale price is usually about $1,000 below what you would pay outside the program.

Read more: I'm a member of both Costco and BJ's. Here's why Costco beats its rival hands down.