Maximizing Your Car Purchase Essential Freebies And Add-Ons To Request From Dealerships

When purchasing a new or used vehicle, many consumers focus solely on negotiating the purchase price, overlooking numerous free items and services that dealerships may provide upon request. Car dealerships often have these items readily available and may be willing to include them as part of the purchase agreement if customers simply ask. This comprehensive guide details the various freebies that can enhance your vehicle ownership experience without additional cost, based on information from industry sources.

Practical Items for Daily Use

Rain Guards

Rain guards, also known as rain visors, are small accessories installed above the driver's side window that allow you to open the window even during heavy rainfall without water entering the vehicle. This feature proves particularly useful when paying tolls, asking for directions, or being pulled over during inclement weather. The convenience factor makes rain guards a valuable freebie to request, especially if you live in an area with frequent precipitation.

A Tank of Gas

While it was once standard practice for dealerships to provide a full tank of gas with new car purchases, this practice has become less common in recent years. According to industry sources, many dealerships no longer automatically include this courtesy, though some still advertise this perk on their websites. When purchasing a vehicle, it's worth requesting a full tank of gas to avoid the immediate inconvenience of needing to locate a gas station after completing the purchase paperwork. Dealerships typically have few objections to providing this freebie, as it's a relatively low-cost gesture that enhances customer satisfaction.

Car Cover

For those without covered parking facilities, a car cover can provide significant protection against environmental elements that may cause long-term exterior damage. Dealerships often receive car covers as promotional items and therefore may have them readily available to distribute to customers who request them. While not all dealerships may offer this freebie, it's worth asking about, particularly if you plan to park your vehicle outdoors regularly.

Floor Mats

Floor mats are standard accessories that protect a vehicle's interior from dirt, mud, and spills. While many new cars come with basic floor mats, dealerships may have upgraded or all-weather mats available that they're willing to include at no additional cost. Requesting premium floor mats can help preserve your vehicle's interior and may be especially valuable for those with children, pets, or active lifestyles.

Mud Flaps

Mud flaps help protect your vehicle's undercarriage and paint from road debris, salt, and other contaminants. These accessories are particularly valuable in regions with snowy winters or areas with unpaved roads. Dealerships typically have mud flaps available for various vehicle models and may be willing to install them as part of the purchase agreement if requested.

Safety and Security Add-ons

Early Warning Device (EWD)

Early warning devices are small, inexpensive safety equipment that can be strategically placed toward oncoming traffic when your vehicle is disabled on the side of the road. These devices alert other drivers to slow down and create space, potentially preventing accidents. Most dealerships maintain a stockpile of EWDs and are often willing to provide them to customers who request this safety-enhancing freebie.

Car Alarm

While many modern vehicles come equipped with factory-installed alarms, some models may not have this security feature. If your vehicle lacks an alarm system, it's worth asking the dealership to include one as part of the purchase agreement. According to industry sources, dealer-installed alarms tend to be of lower quality compared to aftermarket options, but they provide a basic level of security that may be preferable to no protection at all.

LoJack

A LoJack device enables law enforcement to track your vehicle's location if it's stolen. This advanced security system offers greater protection than a standard car alarm by increasing the likelihood of recovery in the event of theft. While dealerships may be willing to install a LoJack device at no cost, customers should be aware that recurring subscription fees and activation costs typically apply. Despite these potential ongoing expenses, the added security may justify the initial free installation.

VIN Etching

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etching involves engraving your car's unique identification code into its windows. This process makes it easier to identify your vehicle if it's recovered after theft, as thieves often remove the standard metal VIN plate. VIN etching is a quick, simple procedure that dealerships can perform at minimal cost, making it a common freebie that customers can request without much resistance.

Reverse Sensor

Most new vehicles now come equipped with reverse sensors that emit increasingly urgent sounds as you back closer to objects. However, this feature may not be available on used vehicles or the most basic new models. Reverse sensors are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, so dealerships may be willing to include them as a freebie, especially if you emphasize safety concerns as a key factor in your purchasing decision.

New Tires

When purchasing a used vehicle, tire condition is particularly important as worn tires can compromise safety and potentially render the vehicle unroadworthy. Dealerships have a vested interest in ensuring that vehicles they sell are safe, as they could be held liable in the event of an accident involving a recently purchased car. If you're buying a used vehicle, it's reasonable to request that the tires be in good condition or replaced if necessary. For new vehicles, the tires typically have minimal wear from test drives, but it's still worth verifying their condition before finalizing the purchase.

Maintenance and Service Benefits

Service and Maintenance Plans

Many automakers include complimentary service and maintenance plans with both lease and purchase agreements. According to industry sources, these plans have become more limited in recent years, covering fewer services and shorter time periods, but they still provide value by covering routine maintenance items. Luxury automakers tend to offer the most comprehensive free maintenance packages, while brands like Jeep and Ram are experimenting with loyalty-based free service visits. When negotiating your purchase, inquire about what service and maintenance coverage is included.

Preventative Maintenance Service (PMS) Vouchers

Similar to comprehensive service plans, PMS vouchers provide complimentary service visits at specific intervals. For example, a voucher might cover a service visit at 10,000 miles and another at 20,000 miles. If your vehicle doesn't come with a free service plan, requesting PMS vouchers can be an effective alternative that provides similar benefits. These vouchers typically cover basic maintenance services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks.

Extended Warranty

While extended warranties represent a significant upsell opportunity for dealerships, they may be willing to include basic coverage as part of the purchase agreement if requested. Extended warranties can provide valuable protection against unexpected repair costs, particularly for vehicles with known issues or complex systems. When discussing this freebie, clarify what components and systems are covered and for what duration.

Car Care/Detailing Kit

Dealerships often have car detailing kits available that include wipes, sponges, sprays, and other products needed to maintain both the interior and exterior of your vehicle. These kits typically address key areas such as tires, rims, lights, and mirrors. While purchasing a similar kit separately could cost $50 or more, dealerships may provide one as a complimentary gift if you request it. A detailing kit can help you maintain your vehicle's appearance and potentially preserve its resale value.

Discounts at Partner Businesses

Many dealerships establish partnerships with local businesses to enhance community relations and provide additional value to customers. These partnerships may result in discounts or special offers at various establishments such as restaurants, service providers, or retail stores. When purchasing a vehicle, inquire about any existing partnerships and the potential benefits available as a result of your purchase. These discounts can provide ongoing value beyond the initial transaction.

Protection and Preservation Services

Rust Protection

Modern vehicles are manufactured with rust-resistant materials that make additional rustproofing unnecessary in many climates. However, if you live in an area prone to rust-causing conditions such as salt exposure or high humidity, rust protection can provide valuable long-term protection. Consumer Reports advises against spending hundreds of dollars on dealer-offered rustproofing services, but notes that if dealers are willing to include it as a freebie, it may add an extra layer of protection to vulnerable parts of your vehicle.

Fabric Protection

Automotive upholstery endures significant wear and tear from daily use, including mud, spills, and general wear. Fabric protection treatments, essentially equivalent to 3M Scotchguard, create a protective barrier that helps maintain your vehicle's interior appearance. According to industry sources, fabric protection is a common upsell item for dealerships, but it's also a relatively inexpensive service (costing less than $10 for the materials) that dealers may be willing to provide as a freebie. When requesting this service, particularly if you have a family or frequently transport passengers, emphasize the additional stress your vehicle's interior will experience.

Extra Set of Keys

It may surprise some buyers that not all dealerships automatically provide a spare key with vehicle purchases. If your vehicle doesn't come with a spare key, it's reasonable to request one as part of the purchase agreement. While obtaining an extra electronic key fob may be more challenging due to higher costs, it's still worth asking, as having a spare key provides convenience and peace of mind.

Conclusion

When purchasing a vehicle, focusing solely on the purchase price means overlooking numerous valuable freebies that dealerships may provide upon request. From practical items like rain guards and floor mats to security features like LoJack and VIN etching, these add-ons can enhance your ownership experience without additional cost. Maintenance-related benefits such as service plans and PMS vouchers can help reduce long-term ownership expenses, while protection services like rustproofing and fabric preservation can help maintain your vehicle's appearance and value.

The key to obtaining these freebies is simply asking—dealerships often have these items readily available and may be willing to include them as part of the purchase agreement if customers express interest. When requesting these add-ons, consider your specific needs, driving conditions, and priorities to determine which items would provide the most value. By taking advantage of these complimentary offerings, you can maximize the value of your vehicle purchase and enjoy additional benefits that enhance your ownership experience.

Sources

1. 25 Freebies to Ask for When Buying a Car
2. Purchasing Car Freebies and Add-ons