Car Dealerships Push These 15 Useless Upgrades

Additional Coverage:

15 Useless Upgrades Car Dealerships Try to Push on You (financebuzz.com)

Navigating the Dealership: 15 “Extras” You Can Skip (and Save Big!)

Is the thought of buying a new car filling you with dread? You’re not alone!

Many folks know what they want to spend but feel trapped in high-pressure dealership environments. The good news?

Being prepared is your secret weapon against wasting hard-earned cash.

So, before you sign on the dotted line, watch out for these 15 common – and often useless – add-ons that dealerships love to push on unsuspecting buyers.

1. The Extended Warranty

This is a classic! Dealerships often tout these as peace of mind, but they can cost you thousands for something you might never use. While manufacturer extended warranties might offer some value in a truly catastrophic situation, dealership-specific warranties are often riddled with so much fine print they’re practically impossible to claim.

2. A Roof Rack

Planning epic road trips and adventures? A roof rack could be valuable.

However, you’ll almost always pay more for one from the manufacturer than a comparable aftermarket version. Plus, manufacturer racks are often vehicle-specific, making them harder to resell later.

Go aftermarket and save!

3. Built-in Rear-Seat Infotainment

Parents, we get it – the dream of a silent car ride is tempting! But resist the urge for built-in infotainment systems. A tablet and headphones offer a fraction of the cost, are portable, and are much cheaper to replace if lost or broken.

4. Windshield Protection Plans

A rock chip can ruin your day, and windshields aren’t cheap to replace. But here’s the kicker: many chips can be repaired inexpensively, making a full-blown protection plan often unnecessary. You’re likely paying for something you won’t use.

5. Paint Sealers

Unless you’re commissioning a custom paint job worthy of a museum, paint sealers are likely redundant. Modern car paints already come with built-in sealants and durability. Regular washing and waxing are usually all you need to keep your car looking sharp.

6. Service Packages

Some robust service packages can be beneficial, but be aware: you’re often committing to years of maintenance at that specific dealership. If a more affordable, reputable independent shop is in your area, you might be better off saving your money and choosing them for routine upkeep.

7. Mudflaps

Once a popular upgrade in the ’80s and ’90s, mudflaps are largely obsolete for most modern cars and SUVs. Unless your state legally requires them, or you’re buying a heavy-duty truck, skip this add-on and keep some cash in your pocket.

8. Seat and Fabric Protection

Dealerships often target families and pet owners with these plans, but don’t fall for it! Even the most expensive fabric repairs are rarely worth the hefty price tag of these protection plans, which can often add $1,000 or more to your loan.

9. Nitrogen-Filled Tires

Unless you’re gearing up for the Daytona 500, spending hundreds on nitrogen-filled tires at the dealership isn’t worth it. While they might maintain pressure slightly better, the real-world benefit for the average driver doesn’t justify the cost.

10. Dent Protection

Bodywork and dent protection sound appealing, especially if you’ve had an unexpected ding in the past. However, these policies often come with a laundry list of limitations and exclusions, rendering them useless when you actually need them. Your comprehensive collision insurance likely offers better coverage.

11. Window Tinting

If you live in a sunny climate or want extra privacy, window tinting can be a good idea. Just don’t buy it from the manufacturer!

Dealership tinting is almost always overpriced. Find a reputable third-party applicator for better value.

12. Trunk Trays and Upgraded Floor Mats

While practical for spills and stains, manufacturer-branded trunk trays and upgraded floor mats can be ridiculously expensive – think hundreds of dollars! You can find equally effective, and often more stylish, aftermarket options online for a fraction of the price.

13. Credit Life Insurance

Also known as credit disability or unemployment insurance, these policies promise to cover your car payments if you can’t. While potentially beneficial, purchasing this from the dealership is rarely the most affordable option. Check with your existing insurance provider for better rates.

14. A More Expensive Car

This is perhaps the biggest trap! Dealerships are masters of the upsell, nudging you towards models with extra features, specialized paint, or more powerful engines that don’t fit your budget. Stick to your research and don’t get swayed into a more expensive vehicle than you originally planned.

15. Car Key Insurance

Yes, it’s a thing! Dealerships will highlight the high cost of replacing modern car keys ($500+ for a new key and reprogramming).

Before you bite, ask your current car insurance provider if key replacement is already covered. If not, a $20 tracking device for your keychain is a far more budget-friendly solution.

The Bottom Line

Many of these add-on services and features are simply designed to boost dealership profit margins. When you walk into a dealership, remember that the salesperson’s goal is to make the biggest sale possible. While many are friendly and helpful, always be wary of anything “extra” they try to tack on.

Most importantly, ask questions! Understand the long-term cost of any “upgrade” before you commit. Being informed is the smartest move a car owner can make.