BackJULY 20, 2026
What Are Dealer Add-Ons?
Dealer add-ons are products, accessories, or services installed or sold by the dealership rather than included as factory equipment.
Dealer Add-Ons in plain English
Common examples include paint protection, theft products, wheel locks, tint, nitrogen, tracking devices, service contracts, and appearance packages.
Some products may provide value, but they should be disclosed, priced clearly, and distinguished from mandatory government or lender charges.
A discount is not a discount when the dealership requires an unwanted package of the same value.
How to review add-ons
The customer should know what is physical, optional, cancellable, or already installed.
- 1
Identify each product
Avoid bundled labels that do not explain what the customer receives.
- 2
Check whether it is optional
Ask whether the vehicle can be purchased without the product.
- 3
Compare market value
The dealership price may exceed the independent value of the item.
- 4
Review cancellation terms
Some service products may have separate cancellation rules.
A practical example
A vehicle advertised $4,000 below MSRP may include a required $3,500 protection package. The effective discount is much smaller than the headline suggests.
Another dealer may show a smaller advertised discount but no required add-ons, producing the lower out-the-door price.
Common questions
Are factory options dealer add-ons? No. Factory options appear on the manufacturer's window sticker.
Can installed products be removed? Sometimes, but certain physical products may already be applied.
Can add-ons be financed? Yes, which increases the amount financed and total interest.
Related terms
Continue with market adjustment, out-the-door price and dealer discount.
Dealing with required packages?
Belgravia can compare official dealership options across California and negotiate the vehicle without allowing add-ons to hide the real price.