Buying a car can feel like a minefield, especially with dealerships pushing add-ons you might not need. While some extras can be beneficial, many are simply profit-boosters for the dealer, leaving your bank account significantly lighter. Here are ten common unnecessary products you should definitely skip when purchasing your next vehicle.
1. Tire Protection: Dealerships often try to sell extended tire warranties, but most tires already come with solid manufacturer warranties covering defects, making this extra protection largely redundant. The cost of these plans usually far exceeds what you’d pay for a new tire, so it’s best to save your money and skip this common upsell.
2. **Dent Protection**: This upsell is pure profit for dealers who sell it to unsuspecting buyers for double the cost. These plans often involve dealing with third-party companies, offering little choice in repair options and rarely covering the full spectrum of damages. It’s best to bypass this costly and often inadequate coverage.
3. **Credit Insurance**: Offered as a safety net for car payments, credit insurance is seldom worth the investment. Most consumers can find better deals through their insurance providers, avoiding costly dealer markups. Moreover, dealers cannot legally require this insurance for car sales.
4. **GAP Insurance**: While GAP insurance can be a smart buy, it’s often overpriced at the dealership. Instead, purchasing it through your own insurance company could save you money and headaches if you need to make a claim.
5. **Extended Warranties**: These warranties are heavily sold but rarely used. Most vehicle repairs fall under the cost of the warranty itself. It’s more economical to save for potential repairs instead of investing in these plans.
6. Car Alarms and Trackers: Many new cars are already equipped with integrated alarm and tracking systems, yet dealerships frequently charge a premium for adding these. You can typically purchase and install a comparable or even superior system independently for a much lower price, offering better value and savings.
7. Paint Sealants: Modern car paints come with advanced protective coatings straight from the factory, rendering additional sealant treatments largely unnecessary. Consistent washing and waxing are usually sufficient to maintain your car’s paint finish without needing to pay for an overpriced sealant add-on.
8. Fabric Protection: Manufacturers often apply fabric protection treatments during the production process, meaning it’s frequently included in the car’s initial price. If you still feel your car’s interior needs extra protection, opting for an affordable DIY product like Scotchgard is a much more economical choice.
9. **Nitrogen-Filled Tires**: The benefits of nitrogen-filled tires over regular air are negligible for most drivers. This add-on is an unnecessary expense, as regular air suffices for everyday driving needs.
10. **Window Tints/Clear Protection**: Often outsourced by dealers, this service can be obtained cheaper and perhaps better by going directly to a trusted specialist. Avoid the dealer mark-up by seeking external options.
11. Door Edge Protectors: Car dealerships can charge an exorbitant amount, typically between $400 and $800, for simple door edge protectors. You can easily purchase a DIY kit for under $10, and these self-adhesive strips, designed to prevent minor chips and scratches, are less critical with today’s durable paint technologies. If you really want them, applying your own is a straightforward and budget-friendly solution.
12. **Service and Maintenance Packages**: When it’s time to discuss service and maintenance packages, approach with caution. While they may seem like a good deal, locking you into the dealership for service may not be in your best interest. You’re better off comparing services and prices from independent mechanics, ensuring you get quality service without the dealership markup.
In the dazzling, often overwhelming, world of car dealership upsells, knowledge and smart preparation are your greatest allies. By understanding which optional extras genuinely enhance your driving experience and learning to identify those that primarily serve to boost the dealership’s profit margins, you can confidently drive away in your new car, secure in both your purchase and the money you’ve saved.
