Purchasing a vehicle often involves navigating a complex set of decisions, from selecting the right model to securing financing. However, a frequently overlooked aspect of the buying process is the potential to acquire complimentary accessories and services. Based on consumer discussions and automotive industry insights, buyers can significantly enhance the value of their purchase by strategically requesting specific freebies. These items range from essential protective gear for the vehicle to practical safety features and convenience add-ons. Understanding what is commonly available and how to request it can transform a standard transaction into a more rewarding experience.
Commonly Requested Freebies
Dealerships often have the flexibility to include various accessories to finalize a sale or satisfy a customer. The items listed below are frequently mentioned by consumers as successfully obtained or readily available upon request.
Protective and Practical Accessories
These items help maintain the vehicle's condition and protect the owner's investment. * Floor Mats: Frequently cited as a standard request, floor mats protect the vehicle's carpeting from dirt, spills, and wear. All-weather mats are particularly valued for their durability. * Cargo Mats: Similar to floor mats, these protect the cargo area from damage caused by heavy or dirty items. * Mud Flaps (Mudguards): These serve a practical purpose by blocking debris kicked up by the tires, thereby protecting the vehicle's undercarriage, tires, and paint from damage. * Fabric Protection Treatments: These chemical treatments can be applied to upholstery to repel stains and spills, which is especially useful for families or those with active lifestyles.
Safety and Security Features
Items in this category enhance the security and safety of the vehicle and its occupants. * Wheel Locks: These are specialized lug nuts that require a unique key to remove, acting as a deterrent against wheel theft. * Spare Keys: Given the high cost of modern electronic keys, requesting a second set is a practical and valuable freebie for family sharing or emergency situations.
Technology and Upgrade Items
While technology preferences evolve, certain upgrades can still be valuable depending on the buyer's needs. * Navigation Systems: With the decline in demand for dedicated units due to smartphone GPS, dealerships may have these on clearance and might include them as a free add-on. * Electronic Dimming Compass Mirrors: This upgrade provides added convenience and functionality. * Sunroof Wind Deflectors: These reduce wind noise when the sunroof is open and can improve aerodynamics.
Convenience and Miscellaneous Items
These freebies add to the overall ownership experience. * Full Tank of Gas: A common courtesy offered by many dealerships to ensure the buyer can drive off the lot without an immediate stop for fuel. * Model Cars: Scale models of the purchased vehicle are sometimes offered as a keepsake. * Bulk Consumables: Some buyers have reported receiving cases of items like oil filters. * Air Fresheners: While often available through mail-in sample programs, some dealerships may provide complimentary air fresheners to new car buyers.
Strategic Approaches to Obtaining Freebies
Successfully acquiring these items often depends on the timing and method of the request.
Timing the Request
The optimal moment to negotiate for accessories is during the final stages of the deal, before the price is finalized. As noted in consumer forums, asking for extras can be an effective bargaining tool if the dealer is unwilling to budge on the price. One buyer successfully secured floor mats and wheel locks by stating they would meet the dealer's price number if those accessories were included. This approach frames the request as a condition for closing the deal rather than an afterthought.
Leveraging Negotiation Leverage
If a buyer is financing through the dealership, there may be additional leverage. For instance, if the dealer can match or beat an interest rate secured through a bank, the buyer might be more inclined to ask for specific accessories as a bonus for using the dealership's financing.
Evaluating the Value
When considering freebies, it is important to assess their practical value versus their perceived cost. Dealerships often acquire accessories at a cost significantly lower than the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Therefore, an item with an MSRP of a few hundred dollars might cost the dealer much less, making it an attractive bargaining chip for them to use to secure a sale.
Mail-In Sample Programs for Car Accessories
Beyond the dealership negotiation, consumers can also access free car-related products through mail-in sample programs. These programs are typically run by brands or marketing companies seeking consumer feedback. Examples found in the data include: * Air Fresheners: Brands like Febreze and Aromables offer free vent clip air fresheners and scent refills through sampling opportunities. * Car Accessories: Occasionally, programs offer free items such as cell phone stands designed for use in vehicles. * Brand Promotions: Companies like Subaru offer free "Badge of Ownership" decals to their customers.
These programs generally require signing up on a brand's website or a dedicated sampling platform. They are separate from the dealership purchase process and can be pursued at any time.
Conclusion
Acquiring free car accessories and promotional offers is a realistic goal for consumers who are informed and strategic. By identifying commonly available items such as floor mats, wheel locks, and fabric protection, and by timing requests appropriately during the negotiation process, buyers can add significant value to their purchase. Furthermore, exploring mail-in sample programs provides an additional avenue for obtaining car care products at no cost. Ultimately, a proactive approach to requesting freebies can lead to a more satisfying and cost-effective vehicle ownership experience.