When purchasing a new or used vehicle from a dealership, the transaction often extends beyond the sticker price. Savvy consumers can frequently secure a range of complimentary add-ons, services, and treatments by asking their sales representative. These items, often referred to as "freebies," can enhance the ownership experience, address specific needs, and provide long-term value. The availability of these items can vary, and dealerships may offer them based on customer request, the type of vehicle purchased, or local driving conditions.
Understanding the Negotiation Process
Buying a car is an ideal opportunity to negotiate for additional value. While the primary negotiation often focuses on the vehicle's price, dealerships are frequently willing to include bonus items and services to close a sale. This practice is common, and customers are encouraged to ask for specific items relevant to their circumstances. There are several freebies that dealerships may provide without significant resistance when a customer requests them. The key is to communicate needs clearly and be prepared to advocate for desired additions.
Common Complimentary Offerings
Dealerships may offer a variety of complimentary items and services. These can be categorized into fuel, vehicle maintenance and protection, safety components, and convenience items.
Fuel
A full tank of fuel is a frequently offered courtesy from many dealerships upon vehicle purchase. The rationale is straightforward: a new car owner should not have to immediately seek out a gas station after leaving the lot. This allows the customer to immediately enjoy their new vehicle without the added step of refueling. While it is a common courtesy, it is not always automatically included, so customers should bring it up with their salesperson if it is not mentioned.
Vehicle Maintenance and Protection
Several treatments and plans can help maintain the vehicle's condition and potentially save money on future upkeep.
- Rust Treatments: For vehicles purchased in areas prone to rust, a rust treatment can be essential for preserving the vehicle's body and extending its life. This treatment is often automatically offered with used vehicle purchases. For new cars, customers in rust-prone climates should specifically request this service, as it is considered a must-have for proper vehicle maintenance in those areas. Even in other climates, asking for this treatment is advisable.
- Service and Maintenance Plans: Some dealerships offer service or maintenance plans for the vehicles they sell. From the dealership's perspective, ensuring a well-maintained vehicle can enhance their reputation for selling solid, reliable cars. Whether a customer pays for such a plan or insists on receiving one for free, a well-maintained vehicle represents a significant long-term cost saving.
- Detailing: When buying a second-hand vehicle, the car's history may be unknown. Customers should point out any staining, dirt, or odors during their inspection and make the dealership aware that these details have been noticed. While detailing may not be necessary for a brand-new car, it can still be beneficial if the vehicle has been on the lot for several weeks, where the exterior may require a wash and polish. It is reasonable to expect the dealership to provide an interior and exterior detailing service, including the upholstery and carpet, before delivering the keys.
- Fabric Protection: Automotive upholstery endures heavy use. To help keep a car's interior looking new, fabric protection treatments are a valuable extra to request. This is particularly relevant for families or individuals who frequently eat or drink in their vehicles.
Safety and Roadworthiness
Dealerships have an interest in ensuring the vehicles they sell are safe and roadworthy, which can also be a point of negotiation for the customer.
- New Tires: Dealerships are invested in the safety of their sold vehicles. A bald or unbalanced tire can make a vehicle unsafe and could potentially lead to liability for the dealership if an accident occurs. For new cars, the tires are likely in good condition, having been used only for test drives. However, extra care is required when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle. Customers should ensure the tires are roadworthy before finalizing the purchase. If there is any concern about tire condition, requesting a set of new tires can be a reasonable ask, especially when emphasizing safety and family needs.
Convenience and Access
Having immediate access to a vehicle is important for daily life and safety.
- Spare Keys: Leaving the dealership with only one key is often discouraged. A spare set of keys is useful in case of a lockout and allows family members to share the vehicle. High-tech keys can be expensive to replace, so securing a second set at the time of purchase is a prudent, practical freebie. Its importance for safety and everyday convenience should be emphasized.
Factors Influencing Complimentary Offers
Several factors can influence what a dealership is willing to provide:
- Local Driving Conditions: Dealerships may be more receptive to requests for items like rust treatments in regions with harsh winters or high humidity. Asking for items specific to local conditions can increase the likelihood of a positive response.
- Vehicle Type: Some items, like detailing or fabric protection, may be more commonly offered with used vehicles, while others, like rust treatments for new cars, may require a specific request.
- Customer Advocacy: The customer's willingness to ask and clearly articulate their needs plays a significant role. Dealerships are more likely to provide items that are requested.
Conclusion
Securing complimentary add-ons and services when purchasing a vehicle is a common and achievable practice. By understanding the types of items available—ranging from fuel and maintenance plans to safety components and convenience tools—consumers can approach the negotiation process more effectively. The key is to communicate needs clearly, ask for items relevant to personal and local circumstances, and emphasize the value these additions bring to the ownership experience. While not every request may be granted, many dealerships are prepared to include such freebies to ensure customer satisfaction and finalize a sale.