Getting Free Car Accessories From Dealerships A Guide To Common Freebies

Car buyers have long enjoyed the tradition of receiving complimentary accessories and services from dealerships as part of the purchasing process. These freebies, ranging from practical floor mats to higher-value electronic accessories, have become an expected part of the car buying experience for many consumers. This article explores the various types of free car accessories commonly offered by dealerships, promotional items available through special programs, and strategies for obtaining these valuable additions.

Common Dealer-Provided Freebies

Dealerships frequently offer basic accessories as incentives for customers purchasing new vehicles. Among the most commonly provided items are floor mats, which serve a practical purpose by protecting the vehicle's interior from dirt, mud, and spills. Many forum participants report receiving floor mats as standard freebies when purchasing vehicles. Cargo mats are also frequently included, providing additional protection for the trunk or cargo area.

Wheel locks represent another common freebie that dealerships may include. These security devices help prevent theft of the vehicle's wheels and are particularly valuable for owners of higher-end vehicles. According to forum discussions, some dealers include these accessories as standard with luxury vehicle purchases.

Other frequently mentioned accessories include:

• Mudguards or mud flaps, which protect the vehicle's undercarriage from debris kicked up by tires
• All-weather floor mats, designed to provide enhanced protection during inclement weather conditions
• Cargo trays or truck trays, offering additional storage solutions and protection

Some dealerships have been known to provide scale models of the purchased vehicle as complimentary gifts. Forum participants have reported receiving 1/16 scale models of their vehicles, particularly with luxury brands. These commemorative items serve as mementos of the purchase and can hold sentimental value for owners.

Higher-Value Accessories

Beyond basic protective accessories, dealerships sometimes offer higher-value items as part of their negotiation strategy or promotional packages. Navigation systems, while becoming less common with the prevalence of smartphone GPS, remain valuable for drivers who frequently travel through areas with poor cellular reception. According to automotive experts, dealerships often have older navigation systems in inventory that they are willing to include at no additional cost to close a deal.

Spare keys represent another higher-value accessory that buyers should consider requesting. Modern vehicle keys with electronic components can be expensive to replace after purchase, making a complimentary spare set a valuable addition. Dealerships may include these as part of the standard package or as a negotiated add-on.

Some dealerships have been known to provide new tires as part of their package, particularly if the vehicle's original tires show signs of wear or if the customer is purchasing in an area with harsh driving conditions. This safety-oriented addition demonstrates the dealership's commitment to customer satisfaction and vehicle safety.

Practical Additions and Services

Several practical accessories and services enhance both the functionality and longevity of a new vehicle. Fabric protection treatments, for example, help preserve the vehicle's interior by creating a barrier against spills, stains, and everyday wear. Automotive experts recommend requesting these treatments, especially for customers with families who may subject the upholstery to additional stress.

Mud flaps serve a dual purpose of protecting the vehicle's undercarriage from debris and minimizing splash back during wet conditions. These practical accessories are particularly valuable for drivers who frequently encounter muddy roads or inclement weather.

A full tank of gasoline represents one of the simplest yet most appreciated freebies offered by dealerships. This courtesy allows new owners to immediately enjoy their purchase without the immediate expense of filling the tank. Industry observers note that this practice has become somewhat less common but remains a standard offering at many dealerships.

Promotional Freebies and Brand-Specific Items

Beyond dealer-provided accessories, various manufacturers and promotional programs offer complimentary items to vehicle owners. Car air fresheners represent one of the most commonly distributed promotional accessories, with numerous brands offering free samples through various programs. These include:

• Aromables Vent Clip Car Air Freshener Bundle
• DriveTime 12V POWER FRESH Scent Diffuser
• Febreze Car Air Freshener

Some manufacturers provide brand-specific promotional items such as badges of ownership, particularly for owners of specific makes or models. These items allow owners to display their affiliation with particular automotive communities or brands.

Electronic accessories like cell phone stands have also emerged as popular promotional items. These practical accessories enhance the driving experience by providing a secure place for mobile devices, which can be particularly useful for navigation or hands-free calling.

Historical Context of Dealer Freebies

The tradition of dealer-provided freebies has evolved significantly over the years. Historical accounts from automotive forums indicate that decades ago, dealerships routinely offered cassette or CD player upgrades as standard incentives. Some dealers even provided trunk spoilers or other cosmetic enhancements to make their offers more attractive.

More recently, the nature of these freebies has shifted toward practical accessories rather than electronic upgrades. This change reflects both technological advancements (making standalone navigation systems less necessary) and changing consumer preferences. Despite this evolution, floor mats and mudguards remain consistently popular freebies across different eras of automotive sales.

How to Request Freebies

Timing plays a crucial role in successfully obtaining dealer-provided accessories. Automotive experts recommend requesting these items during the negotiation phase rather than after the deal has been finalized. Some dealerships may be more willing to include additional accessories if they are part of the initial agreement rather than an add-on requested after paperwork has been completed.

Buyers should research common freebies for their specific vehicle model before visiting the dealership. This preparation allows customers to make informed requests and understand which items are typically available for their particular make and model. Online forums and automotive communities often provide valuable insights into standard offerings at different dealerships.

When requesting accessories, buyers should emphasize their practical value and relevance to their specific needs. For example, customers in areas with harsh weather conditions might focus on all-weather mats and mudguards, while those who frequently travel long distances might prioritize spare keys and navigation systems.

Conclusion

Dealer-provided freebies remain an integral part of the car buying experience, offering practical value and enhancing ownership satisfaction. From basic protective accessories like floor mats and mudguards to higher-value items such as navigation systems and spare keys, these additions provide immediate benefits to new vehicle owners. By understanding common offerings, researching model-specific freebies, and strategically timing requests, buyers can maximize the value they receive when purchasing a new vehicle. The tradition of dealer-provided accessories continues to evolve, but the underlying principle of providing additional value to customers remains constant in the automotive industry.

Sources

1. Freebies ? What did the dealer give you ?
2. Car Freebies Add-ons
3. Incentives Freebies from the Dealer
4. Free Car Accessories