Maximizing Value Freebies To Request When Purchasing A New Vehicle

Introduction

When purchasing a new vehicle, negotiating extends beyond the purchase price itself. Savvy buyers recognize that dealerships may be willing to include various complimentary items and services to close a deal. These freebies, often referred to as add-ons or throw-ins, can provide substantial value and enhance the ownership experience. While dealerships typically promote these extras as paid add-ons, many can be obtained simply by asking during the negotiation process. This article explores the various complimentary items and services that buyers may request when purchasing a new vehicle, organized by category for easy reference. By understanding which freebies are commonly available and how to approach the request process, consumers can maximize the value of their automotive purchase without additional cost.

Fuel and Maintenance Freebies

A Full Tank of Gas

One of the most traditional freebies when purchasing a new car is a full tank of gas. While this practice was once standard, it has become less common in recent years. According to available information, dealerships that still offer this complimentary tank often highlight it on their websites as a promotional feature. For buyers at dealerships that do not automatically include this perk, requesting a full tank is typically a straightforward process. The dealership is usually willing to accommodate this request as it represents a relatively small cost compared to the overall vehicle purchase price.

A full tank of gas provides immediate practical value, allowing new owners to drive away from the dealership without the immediate need to locate a gas station. This convenience can be particularly appreciated during the often stressful car buying process, enabling buyers to focus on enjoying their new vehicle rather than worrying about the first fill-up.

Service and Maintenance Plans

Many automakers include complimentary service and maintenance plans with both lease and purchase agreements. While these plans have become smaller in recent years—covering fewer services and having shorter durations—they still represent valuable no-cost additions. Luxury automakers tend to offer the most generous complimentary maintenance packages, though brands like Jeep and Ram are also experimenting with loyalty-based service visit programs.

For vehicles that do not include a comprehensive maintenance plan, buyers may request Preventative Maintenance Service (PMS) vouchers. These vouchers typically cover a specific number of service visits at predetermined mileage intervals, such as one visit at 10,000 miles and another at 20,000 miles. Even when a full maintenance plan isn't available, securing several PMS vouchers can help offset routine maintenance costs during the initial ownership period.

Extended Warranty Options

New vehicles and dealer-certified previously owned models come standard with both bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties. When these factory warranties expire, owners typically bear the full cost of repairs. However, buyers may request that the dealership extend the coverage through the dealer's service department or through a third-party partner company.

While extended warranties represent a significant revenue source for dealerships, negotiation during the purchase process can sometimes result in complimentary or discounted coverage. The availability of complimentary extended warranty varies significantly by dealership, vehicle make, model, and price point, but it remains a viable request to include in negotiations.

Exterior Protection and Enhancement

Rust Protection Treatment

Rust protection is a valuable investment for any vehicle, helping maintain appearance and extending the lifespan of both new and used automobiles. When purchasing a used car, rust protection should automatically be offered by the dealership. For new vehicles, buyers should proactively request this treatment, particularly if they live in regions prone to rust due to road salt, humidity, or other environmental factors.

In areas with high corrosion potential, rust protection transitions from optional to essential. Regardless of climate, buyers should consider requesting this complimentary treatment as part of the purchase negotiation. The dealership's willingness to provide rust protection often depends on the vehicle's price point and the overall negotiation dynamics.

Window Tinting

Dealerships frequently offer window tinting as a paid add-on, either performed in-house through the dealer's service department or outsourced to third-party vendors. However, buyers may negotiate to have this service included in the purchase price at no additional cost. Window tinting provides multiple benefits, including reduced interior heat, protection from UV rays, increased privacy, and potential reduction in interior fading.

When requesting complimentary window tinting, buyers should emphasize the practical advantages while maintaining a reasonable negotiating position. The dealership's willingness to include this feature often depends on factors such as the vehicle's price, current inventory levels, and the buyer's overall negotiation leverage.

Door Edge Guards

Door edge guards represent a small but valuable addition that protects against paint chips and potential rust damage. These guards prevent damage that can occur when doors accidentally impact curbs, garage structures, or other objects. While seemingly minor, such impacts can compromise the vehicle's paint and protective coating, leading to rust that may spread underneath the vehicle's surface.

Buyers should request the installation of protective door edge guards as a complimentary item during the negotiation process. The relatively low cost and simple installation of these guards make them a reasonable request that dealerships may be willing to include to facilitate a sale.

Mud Flaps

Mud flaps serve both practical and aesthetic purposes by protecting the vehicle's undercarriage and paint from road debris, water, and chemicals. Particularly in regions with snow, ice, or gravel roads, mud flaps can significantly reduce the accumulation of damaging materials on the vehicle's surface.

When requesting complimentary mud flaps, buyers should consider their local driving conditions and mention how these accessories would be particularly beneficial given their specific environment. Dealerships may be more inclined to include this accessory in regions where road conditions warrant such protection.

Car Cover

For buyers without covered parking, a car cover can provide essential protection against environmental elements that may damage the vehicle's exterior. These covers are relatively inexpensive for dealerships to acquire, often obtained through promotional channels or bulk purchasing.

A complimentary car cover offers immediate protection against sun damage, bird droppings, tree sap, and other potential hazards. When requesting this item, buyers without garage or carport access should emphasize how the cover would help preserve the vehicle's appearance and protect their investment from day one.

Rain Guards

Rain guards (also known as window visors) allow for partial window opening during inclement weather, providing ventilation without allowing rain to enter the cabin. These accessories enhance year-round driving comfort and can be particularly valuable in regions with frequent precipitation.

Buyers interested in rain guards should request them as part of the negotiation package, highlighting both the comfort and safety benefits of being able to crack windows during light rain without water intrusion. The relatively low cost and simple installation make this a reasonable request for dealerships to consider.

Performance and Utility Additions

New Tires

Tire condition directly impacts vehicle safety, making this a critical consideration during the car buying process. For new vehicles, the original tires typically have minimal wear from test drives only. However, buyers should verify tire condition and tread depth before finalizing any purchase.

When purchasing pre-owned vehicles, tire condition requires particular attention. Buyers should explicitly mention that they plan to have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic, with special attention to tire safety and roadworthiness. In some cases, dealerships may agree to include a new set of tires as part of the negotiation, especially if the existing tires show significant wear or damage.

Tow Hitch Installation

Vehicles advertised with towing capacity often come equipped with hitches. However, some models have the mechanical capability to tow but do not include the necessary hitch hardware as standard equipment. For buyers planning to tow trailers, boats, or other equipment, requesting complimentary hitch installation can save several hundred dollars.

When negotiating for a complimentary tow hitch, buyers should clearly state their towing intentions and demonstrate knowledge about the vehicle's towing capacity and requirements. The dealership's willingness to include this feature typically depends on the vehicle's trim level, price point, and the buyer's overall negotiation position.

Reverse Sensors

Most new vehicles now include reverse sensors as standard equipment, which emit increasingly urgent sounds as the vehicle approaches objects while backing up. However, this feature may not be included on base models or used vehicles without this technology.

For vehicles lacking reverse sensors, buyers may request their installation as a complimentary addition. Emphasizing safety concerns and the value this feature adds for parking maneuvers in tight spaces can strengthen the request. Given the relatively low cost and ease of installation, dealerships may be willing to include this enhancement.

Interior Comfort and Protection

Fabric Protection Treatment

Automotive upholstery endures significant wear and tear, from muddy shoes and spilled drinks to constant UV exposure. Fabric protection treatments help maintain the vehicle's interior appearance by creating a barrier against stains and wear. For buyers with families or those who frequently transport passengers, emphasizing the additional stress placed on interior fabrics can strengthen the request for complimentary protection treatment.

The relatively low cost of fabric protection to the dealership, combined with its perceived value to the buyer, makes this a reasonable request during negotiations. Buyers should specifically mention how they plan to use the vehicle and why fabric protection would be particularly beneficial for their lifestyle.

Brand Merchandise

Some dealerships offer branded merchandise as part of their promotional packages. This can include items such as branded clothing, accessories, or practical vehicle-related products. While the value of these items varies, they can serve as memorable additions to the purchase experience and reinforce the brand connection.

When requesting complimentary brand merchandise, buyers should approach the request casually, recognizing that these items represent a relatively low-cost way for dealerships to enhance customer satisfaction. The specific items available will vary by dealership and brand, but may include branded keychains, hats, jackets, or other promotional products.

Effective Negotiation Strategies

Timing Your Requests

The timing of freebie requests can significantly impact their likelihood of approval. Ideally, these requests should be made after the price of the vehicle has been settled but before final paperwork is completed. At this stage, the dealership has invested significant time and resources in the negotiation process and may be more willing to include complimentary items to close the sale.

Buyers should avoid introducing freebie requests too early in the negotiation process, as this may distract from the primary goal of securing the best possible price on the vehicle itself. Once the purchase price has been agreed upon, the negotiation can expand to include various complimentary items and services.

Prioritizing Requests

Not all freebies carry equal value or importance to every buyer. Prioritizing requests based on individual needs and circumstances increases the likelihood of securing genuinely useful additions. For example, a buyer in a northern climate might prioritize rust protection and window tinting, while someone towing equipment would focus on a complimentary hitch.

Buyers should create a personal list of desired freebies, ranking them from most to least important. This approach allows for flexibility during negotiations while ensuring that the most valuable items are requested first. It also demonstrates to the dealership that the buyer is making reasonable, thoughtful requests rather than simply asking for everything possible.

Researching Common Practices

Different dealerships and regions may have varying practices regarding complimentary items. Some dealerships may automatically include certain freebies as part of their standard package, while others may require explicit requests. Buyers should research typical practices in their area and for their specific dealership to understand what can reasonably be expected.

Online forums, review sites, and automotive publications often provide insights into dealership-specific policies regarding complimentary items. This research can help buyers approach negotiations with realistic expectations and appropriate request strategies.

Maintaining a Positive Relationship

Throughout the negotiation process, maintaining a positive, respectful relationship with the dealership staff can increase the likelihood of receiving requested freebies. Hostile or confrontational negotiation tactics may result in staff being less willing to accommodate requests for complimentary items.

Buyers should approach negotiations as a collaborative process rather than an adversarial one. Expressing appreciation for the dealership's time and assistance, while clearly stating needs and preferences, creates a more conducive environment for securing desired additions.

Conclusion

Purchasing a new vehicle represents a significant financial investment, and securing complimentary items and services can enhance this investment without additional cost. From practical additions like a full tank of gas and maintenance vouchers to protective features like rust treatment and window tinting, the range of potential freebies is substantial.

By understanding which items are commonly available, approaching negotiations strategically, and prioritizing requests based on individual needs, buyers can significantly increase the value received with their vehicle purchase. While not every request will be granted, a thoughtful, respectful approach to negotiation often results in several valuable complimentary additions.

The key to successfully obtaining these freebies lies in preparation, clear communication, and timing. Buyers who research common practices, prioritize their requests, and maintain a positive negotiating stance are most likely to walk away from the dealership with not just their new vehicle, but also a selection of valuable additions that enhance their ownership experience.

Sources

1. HotCars: Purchasing Car Freebies and Add-Ons
2. AAA: Questions to Ask When Buying a Car
3. Yahoo Finance: 25 Freebies to Ask for When Buying a Car