2020 California wildfires have caused immense damage and affected the lives of thousands. Fortunately, at least a dozen car brands have stepped up to lend a helping hand. Whether it's Employee Pricing or special assistance for those suffering a total loss, there are programs that can make it easier to replace a car.
Here's a brief look at brands offering California wildfire disaster relief discounts as of this writing. In most cases, automakers allow consumers to combine these offers with other deals for buying & leasing. CarsDirect's analysis includes unadvertised information from dealer incentive bulletins available as of this writing.
As noted below, some of these automakers are also offering help to wildfire victims in places like Oregon, Washington, and Arizona.
Brands are listed in alphabetical order.
Updated October 27
Chrysler Wildfire Disaster Relief Updated
What It Is: Between September 24 and November 30, FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) is offering Wildfire Disaster Relief in the form of Employee Pricing For All. The incentive is limited to those in select regions. Those affected by the Oregon wildfires can take advantage of this offer as well.
In California: Modesto, Monterey, Oakland, Sacramento, Salinas, San Francisco, San Jose, Stockton
In Oregon: Eugene, Klamath Falls, Medford, Portland
Worth Knowing: Equivalent to a 5% discount off the dealer's invoice price, this is a rare incentive available on nearly every 2020 & 2021 model from Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, FIAT, and Alfa Romeo.
To qualify, you'll have to have experienced a total loss or damage as a result of the recent wildfires. You can do this by showing your local dealer a copy of an insurance claim form indicating damage to your current vehicle.
Ford Wildfire Disaster Relief Updated
What It Is: Ford is offering Employee Pricing to those affected by the California wildfires. Also referred to as Ford A-Plan Pricing, the offer is available on most models and can be combined with other incentives for buying & leasing through January 4, 2021.
Worth Knowing: To get the discount, you'll have to show a copy of a valid insurance claim and be a resident of any of the following areas: Lake, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo.
GM Wildfire Disaster Relief Updated
What It Is: Through November 30, GM is offering $1,000 Disaster Relief Bonus Cash on a wide range of Buick, Cadillac, Chevy, and GMC models. As usual, certain base models like the Chevy Equinox L, Buick LaCrosse 1SV and Chevy Colorado Base are excluded (as they are from all promotions).
Worth Knowing: To get the discount, you'll have to show a copy of a valid insurance claim and be a resident of any of the following areas: Butte, Lake, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, and Yolo.
Mazda Wildfire Disaster Relief Updated
What It Is: Between September 15 and December 31, Mazda is offering $750 in disaster relief assistance to those affected by wildfires in California. In addition, those affected by other severe fires in Arizona, Oregon, and Washington are eligible for the same incentive.
The bonus can be combined with other incentives for buying & leasing. This can include rebates, low-interest financing, and special lease offers. Mazda owners can also take advantage of a $750 loyalty discount. All 2020 & 2021 models are eligible with no exclusions.
Who's Eligible: To get the discount, you'll have to show your dealer a copy of an auto insurance claim form listing damage or a total loss within the dates of August 15 and October 15. Be sure to contact your local Mazda dealer for complete rules & restrictions.