Anyone who has bought a vehicle at a dealership has probably experienced the dealer trying to sell add-ons at the last minute of the sale. This usually happens when it is time to finish up the paperwork and finally take delivery on a vehicle.  Many car dealers will try to pad your final tab and their profit by offering — or sometimes adding on without the customer’s approval — a bunch of last-minute options. Unfortunately, this is typically when car buyers are most vulnerable and just want to drive away in their new ride.  Dealers know how to make these add-ons very appealing and important to have. Yet, no matter what type of pressure a dealer uses to convince you otherwise, you should really think these things over.  Here are some common options that you will likely be offered:

Extended Warranty
Since vehicles come with longer and more comprehensive warranties these days, extended warranties are not always worth the extra money. If you plan to keep the vehicle for many years, an extended warranty can be a good investment.  Just make sure you compare prices to independent warranty companies.

Paint Sealant
This is an add-on that will keep your vehicle’s paint looking shiny and new.  Just know that washing and waxing regularly can have the same effect.

CD Changer
Carmakers use proprietary connections and cables that force the owner to use the brand’s CD changers.  Yet, many car stereo shops carry adapters that can connect an aftermarket CD changer to a factory radio. Also, many drivers are switching over to using MP3 players or hard drive systems for their music selections, so just make sure there is an auxiliary input for these devices.

Rust-Proofing
This can be a costly add-on. You may want to get this, but remember that most vehicles these days come with warranties that cover rust damage for several years.

Fabric Protection
For a couple of hundred dollars, some dealers will try to sell you fabric protection for your car’s interior that will repel stains. This may be a worthwhile investment, but just know, it can easily be done yourself with a few cans of Scotchguard.

Alarm System
Many cars come with a basic form of security, such as coded keys, but many dealers will also try to sell you a full-featured alarm system. While a good security system is a wise investment if you live in an area with high auto-theft rates or drive a vehicle that’s popular with car thieves, they are also available on the aftermarket.   If you do decide to go with the dealer’s add-on alarm for convenience’s sake, make sure it’s a reputable brand.

Rear-Seat Video
Whether to choose this dealer option can be hard.  While DVD players are easily found in stores, some people prefer the seamless integration and functionality (such as being able to control the system from the in-dash radio) of a dealer-installed system. Plus, you can roll the price of a dealer’s system into the overall cost of the vehicle and pay for it a little at a time.

Window Etching
The vehicle’s VIN is etched on the window so that your car can allegedly be tracked in case it’s stolen. Of, course this is not a sure guarantee to scare off thieves.  Do-it-yourself kits are also available.

For some, getting add-ons are worth the extra price.  It is not necessarily a bad thing to do, the important thing is to know your options, and decide whether this is something you really want on your own, not from a very convincing sales pitch.