Extra, Extra, Extra

Car dealers are falling over themselves to tempt us into parting with our cash. One way is by offering attractive ‘free’ extras, such as electric windows, sunroofs, leather seats and air conditioning. They also like to offer perks such as free insurance, 0% finance deals and sunshine holidays.

Checking out the offers

Free insurance - is a good idea for many people - comprehensive cover is usually the wisest choice for a brand-new car, and without a special deal it can be very expensive, particularly for inexperienced or young drivers.

But do your own research into what the cover offers before taking up a free insurance offer, to make sure it is right for you: it may only give you the minimum of cover and might prevent the car from being driven by other members of your family.

Will you be able to afford to insure it next year when the freebie runs out? It’s always worth getting an independent quote – try Direct Line for a car insurance quote to see how much you could save.

Free holidays – are always very tempting - but if the dates and destinations don’t suit you, you’re probably better off asking for the same amount off the price of the car!

Cashback - is your money and you will be paying a lot for it if you buy through a finance deal.

Is the extra a real bargain?

Free added extras or upgrades to tempt you into buying a car can be useful and save you money as well – just remember that a bargain is only a bargain if you really wanted it in the first place. For example, air-conditioning will need to be maintained and will increase your running costs.

Advantages for selling on

Some extras are worth having because when you come to change your car, a ‘fully loaded’ model will be easier to sell – although it might not necessarily bring in a better price.

Metallic paint makes a car look more attractive, but it’s more expensive and difficult to match in the event of a scrape. Some metallics, such as silver, are extremely popular. More unusual colours, such as yellow and lilac, will not attract very many buyers.

A leather interior is always worth going for because it looks and feels good and is practical – it's harder wearing and easier to clean than cloth, particularly if you have children and pets. Additions such as dog guards, tinted glass, mats and quality sound systems, particularly when they are of the type recommended or supplied by the manufacturer, can be expensive when purchased individually. If they’re being given away, always say ‘yes’.

Beware of too many extras

Adding extras not recommended by the manufacturer can affect the vehicle’s warranty, increase the cost of your car insurance, and some, such as under-chassis lighting can be illegal to use whilst driving. Flamboyant spoilers, customised paint effects, rally steering wheels, bucket seats and over-wide wheels, for example, may not be covered by a normal car insurance policy, they can also make your pride and joy totally unsaleable!