Skip to main content
Share this page

When you buy a car, the dealer also might try to sell you optional products or services known as “add-ons”— which might break your budget. Here’s what you need to know.

Tags

Transcript

[MUSIC PLAYING]

You've negotiated a good price for a car. You have your financing lined up. But it's not time to drive off into the sunset just yet. First, the dealer may try to sell you add-ons. 

Add-ons are optional products or services, like rust proofing, fabric protection, gap insurance, or a service contract that cost you extra. One important thing to know about add-ons, it's OK to say, "no" or "not right now". It's your money. 

The more add-ons you get, the more you're going to pay, which might break your budget. Your best move? Read up on add-ons before you even go to a dealer. You might find out that you don't need any add-ons, or you can get them later for a better price. 

And if there's an add-on you want to buy, don't be afraid to negotiate the price. When you're ready to sign the contract, make sure it only lists the add-ons you've agreed to, at the prices you were quoted. If the dealer isn't honest when it comes to add-on charges, let the FTC know. Want to know more? Visit ftc.gov/cars. 

[MUSIC PLAYING] 

Please download and share our resources.

Downloads