Buying a car can be fun, but the journey from choosing the right vehicle to driving it home can be a minefield of unnecessary bells and whistles and frustration. Dealers like to add too many features and services that don’t justify the cost in the long run. Before you go check out that new ride you’ve had your eye on, take a look below at some of the worst products dealers will try to add to your final sale. In most cases, it is only aimed at increasing profits.
1. Back seat entertainment
If you have kids, it may be tempting to pay extra to watch a TV screen to keep the back row entertained. That is until you find out how much it costs. Instead of adding something permanent to your vehicle, consider alternatives. For example, an iPad serves the same purpose, can be taken virtually anywhere, and costs a fraction of the price.
2. VIN etching
Sounds like a sound purchase, right? After all, $200 to $300 doesn’t seem like a lot to spend to make your car look less appealing to thieves. He believes that no one will steal a car that can be easily identified by its VIN or other information because it is hard to scratch. However, the VIN is stamped on the car in several places and cannot be easily removed.
3. Roof Rack Rodeo
Dealers often push roof rack accessories on customers, marketing them as a must-have for wild camping or cross-country travel, but let’s be real. Unless you regularly transport bulky items like canoes or bicycles, these add-ons are just expensive dust collectors and can even reduce your car’s gas mileage. Some trim may even be included, so if it’s a must-have item, you may want to consider an option that already has a built-in rack.
4. Key? Check!
Protecting your keys sounds like a good idea, but most modern keys are durable and many comprehensive insurance policies already cover lost or damaged keys. Therefore, he may end up paying twice for the same protection. Before you go to the dealership, review your insurance policy and think about times when you lost or damaged your car keys in the past. If the answer is zero, this is a product worth skipping.
5. Windshield Warriors
Windshield protection is attractive, especially if you frequently drive on gravel roads. However, it can be redundant. Double-check your car insurance policy before parting with your hard-earned cash for this add-on. Many insurance companies already offer windshield protection, so this additional cost is an extra expense. We’ll come back to this: When you’re approached at a car wash for windshield repair service, the answer is always “no.” If you notice a dent or chip, contact a genuine window repair company and your insurance company.
6. Tire margin
Tire protection plans are appealing, especially when it comes to puncture horror stories. Before agreeing to this service, remember that tires are very durable and good driving habits and regular maintenance are sufficient. These plans also usually have an end date (although no mileage limit is appealing). As long as you avoid potholes and keep your tires properly inflated, you can avoid this additional coverage. Either way, your new tires may expire before you need them.
7. Dent Defender
Dent protection is also an expensive add-on, but it’s often not worth the price. Typically, only small dents and dings are covered, and damage from major accidents is not covered. It’s usually more cost-effective to pay for minor repairs out-of-pocket or accept the damage if it doesn’t affect your ability to drive.
8. Concealment of trust
Credit insurance may sound like a good idea, but it often comes with high premiums and many restrictions. Payments are only made under certain conditions and usually cover the remaining payment on the car, rather than the full price of the car. Most people would be better off investing in life insurance or disability insurance, which provides broader coverage.
9. Gap insurance
Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) insurance may seem like a safeguard against car depreciation. However, if you’ve made a good down payment or your car has maintained its value well, GAP insurance can be an unnecessary and expensive additional option. If you insist on getting GAP insurance, talk to your car insurance policy holder. They may give you the option to add on a plan that is cheaper than going through the dealer.
10. Amazing warranty
Extended warranties may seem to provide peace of mind, but they come at a high cost. Additionally, most new cars are built to last beyond the standard warranty period. Therefore, you don’t need those extra years of warranty, and any minor repairs that are needed may cost less than the warranty.
11. Alarm and awakening
Car dealers may also try to sell you upgraded car alarms and tracking devices. While these features are useful in high-crime areas, most new vehicles are equipped with basic alarms and even anti-theft systems that shut down the car’s electrical system and prevent it from starting. Always check the features of your car before buying to avoid falling for dealer surplus.
12. Sealed Paint Agreement
Paint sealants seem like a good value as they provide a glossy finish and excellent protection from the elements. However, with regular car washes and occasional waxing, you can keep your car’s paint in good condition without the additional expense of sealants. Your dealer may not tell you that the sealant is not permanent. May only last up to 6 months.
13. Fabric Folly
Protecting fabrics is a smart precaution, especially if you have children or pets. However, most modern car fabrics are already highly resistant to stains. Instead of purchasing this add-on, consider investing in a good fabric cleaner that you can use right away when you spill a liquid. If you are concerned about dirt, it may be better to purchase a seat cover.
14. Tire trick
Nitrogen-filled tires are sometimes touted as superior to air-filled tires, but for the average driver, the benefits are minimal. Nitrogen may be useful for race cars and commercial jets, but good old air is perfect for your daily commute. Also, you must always take your car to the store to refuel. That’s a lot of extra work compared to what he could previously do for $1 at a gas station.
15. The mystery of windows
Window tints and clear protection are often touted as must-haves for keeping your car protected and cool. That’s not entirely a lie, but do your research before agreeing to a dealer’s price. You can often find a local shop that will do the same work for a fraction of the cost.
16. Door protection
A door edge protector may seem like a good investment as it can protect your door from chips and small scratches. However, these are usually unnecessary expenses. Small scratches can be easily (and inexpensively) fixed using touch-up paint or kits that can be purchased online. You can also buy your own edge protectors for a fraction of what the dealer charges.
17. Maintenance Magic
For your convenience, service and maintenance packages may be offered. Prepaid services may seem like a good idea, but dealers often charge higher prices. Local mechanics can usually perform the same service for a lower price, but there are a few things to consider before responding. For example, if you lease a car, you may need to hire a mechanic from the dealership, or if you buy an electric car, your local mechanic may not be trained to make repairs.
18. Fancy flooring
Upgraded floor mats look great and add a luxurious feel to your car interior. The truth is, shoes, pets, and food spills don’t matter, no matter how plush your mat is. Standard mats usually work just fine, but let’s be honest, they’re going to get messy anyway. If you keep cleaning your car, you can prevent standard mats from becoming ratty.
19. Appearance Guarantee
Appearance packages may seem like a fun way to personalize a new car, but these packages are often expensive at dealerships. If you need to customize your car, you can usually find cheaper and more customized upgrades elsewhere. But before you add anything, make sure it won’t void your vehicle’s warranty.
20. Mudflap Mayhem
Mud flaps are another add-on that dealers may try to upsell. It can protect your car from small debris, but it’s usually not necessary for city driving. This may be useful if you regularly go off-road. Otherwise, it’s just an unnecessary expense to line the dealer’s pocket.
