It’s pretty easy to walk into a car dealership with the fear that you might get talked into buying the whole shop. But it doesn’t have to be that way, as not everything they’ve got is something you have to buy. Whether it’s an extended warranty or fancy fabric protection, here are 18 things that just aren’t worth the dealership prices.
Extended Warranties
Dealers love to push for extended warranties and promise you peace of mind, but they’re pretty pricey. Most of the time, the manufacturer’s warranty already covers everything anyway, so why pay double? If you really want an extended warranty, check out some third-party providers because they’ll give you the same benefits at a fraction of the cost.
Why Fabric Protection Isn’t Necessary
Dealers will also try to convince you that fabric protection is the best way to keep your car’s interior always looking new. In reality, you can get a can of fabric protector at your local store and do it yourself for much less. Save your cash for something actually worth your time and effort.
Window Tinting
You might be considering tinting those windows to add a little mystery to your ride. There’s nothing wrong with that, although you probably shouldn’t get it done at your dealership as the prices usually go through the roof. Take a little detour to a local tint shop instead, as they’ll give you more options at a much better price.
VIN Etching
Getting VIN etching to protect your car is a good idea, but don’t get it at the dealership. Instead, buy a kit online and do it yourself at home. Etching the VIN yourself will give you a great excuse to spend some quality time with your car, and it’s pretty easy since most kits come with easy instructions. All it takes is a few minutes.
Key Replacement Insurance
While dealers usually have key replacement insurance, it’s usually a lot more expensive than it should be. Your regular insurance company should cover you for much less, so don’t get locked into high dealer prices! It’s a good idea to compare the costs and coverage details before you decide.
The Truth About Rustproofing
Modern cars are built with the ability to avoid rust, so when a dealer says they’ll give you rustproofing, it’s usually just an unnecessary upsell. Stick to washing your car and doing maintenance regularly to keep rust at bay without the extra cost. Adding more protective layers to your car is overkill.
Paint Protection
Similarly, dealers love selling paint protection plans like the shield your car can’t live without. A good wax can do the same thing, if not better, so it’s well worth buying a can from your local auto shop. Not only does regular waxing keep your car looking great, but it’ll also protect the paint from UV rays and dirt.
Nitrogen in Tires
You might hear that filling your tires with nitrogen keeps them inflated longer, but that’s not true. The benefit is minimal for most drivers, and station air pumps often give you nitrogen-enriched air, anyway. You’ll be fine if you do regular checks on your tire pressure.
Tread Carefully
Speaking of tires, you should avoid going to the dealership for new ones. Tire specialty stores will have competitive prices and promotions that dealerships can’t match, and you’ll likely also get other benefits like lifetime rotation and balancing. These will add even more value compared to what you’d typically get from a dealer.
Pump up the Volume
There are always plenty of flashy sound systems at each dealership that look pretty tempting. But you’ll find better prices and wider selections at your local electronics shop or even online. Don’t feel rushed to buy one at the dealership. Instead, take time to choose exactly what fits your needs and your vehicle so you’ll enjoy it.
A Dash Cam
There’s no denying that dash cams are great for keeping an eye on things while you drive, although you don’t need to pay dealership prices for them. Get one online and either install it yourself or get a car audio specialist to help you because it’s usually cheaper. Buying one can actually help lower your car insurance premiums.
Dealer Prep Fees
Some dealers charge you just to get your new car ready, which usually means taking off the plastic and washing it. Is it really worth paying those extra costs? If you’re tempted, you should always ask what these fees include, and don’t be shy to challenge them if you think they’re overpriced. After all, you’re already paying a lot for the car.
Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance packages are a good deal, but you should get them through auto clubs or car insurance instead. Take some time to shop around and compare offers before you commit to anything at the dealership. These memberships often have extra benefits, like travel discounts and more comprehensive coverage, so they’re a great idea.
Oil Changes
While changing your oil at the dealership is convenient, it’s not always the cheapest option. Local garages and even some big-box retailers can offer this service at a far more reasonable price. Regular oil changes keep your car ticking over, and finding a cost-effective place to have them done will save you a lot of money in the long run.
Car Detailing
At the dealership, car detailing seems like a luxury service, but it doesn’t have to be that way. You can get your ride looking good for far cheaper at a local detailing shop, and these places often customize the service to suit your car’s needs better than the dealer. They’ll also likely use higher quality products and spend more time on your vehicle.
Accessorize Wisely
If you’re looking for new floor mats or a trunk organizer, get them online. You’ll find a much wider selection for better prices, and shopping around is also part of the fun. This way, you can avoid the upsell at the dealership while also getting the chance to compare styles and find the perfect match for your car and lifestyle.
Update Your Maps, Not Your Expenses
Don’t bother updating your car’s GPS at the dealership because they’ll probably charge you a lot. Instead, you can usually download updates directly from your car manufacturer’s website or use your smartphone’s GPS apps for free. You’ll be able to stay on track without the financial burden.
Add-Ons and Attachments
Check out third-party suppliers if you’re considering adding a tow hitch or roof rack to your vehicle, as they’re usually overpriced at dealerships. You could even try doing a DIY install or at least find a local mechanic to do the job for less. It’ll save you money and all.
19 Grim Realities of Dating After 50 That Are Often Overlooked
19 Grim Realities of Dating After 50 That Are Often Overlooked
26 Things That Will Be Extinct Because Millennials Refuse to Buy Them
26 Things That Will Be Extinct Because Millennials Refuse to Buy Them
24 Outdated Slang Terms You Absolutely Shouldn’t Be Using Anymore
24 Outdated Slang Terms You Absolutely Shouldn’t Be Using Anymore
25 Hardest Parts About Getting Older That No One Ever Talks About
25 Hardest Parts About Getting Older That No One Ever Talks About
