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The car-buying process can be expensive and stressful on its own. Throw in extra opinions about what you need to buy from your car from an auto salesman or well-meaning friends and family, and you could end up even more overwhelmed.

There are several aftermarket products – or those that get added on after the original manufacturer’s sale – that you might hear about during your vehicle search. However, not all of them are ones you should shell out cash for.

Aftermarket Products That Might Be Worth Your Money

The aftermarket products and services you choose, if any, should reflect what you need most in your vehicle. Here are a few products to consider that could be beneficial investments:

Extended warranty

An extended warranty isn’t something you’ll always need, but it’s wise to consider it when the vehicle you’re buying has an excellent warranty already that might run out within the next year or two. If you plan to keep your vehicle for several years beyond the original warranty timeframe, then an extended warranty might be the best way to keep your purchase protected.

You can buy the extended warranty directly from the manufacturer or dealership, usually at the time of your vehicle purchase. Sometimes, the cost of your extended warranty can even be tacked onto your loan price, so you won’t have to pay for it upfront.

Service contract

If your dealership also has an auto service facility on its lot or partners with one, it may offer you an exceptional deal on a service contract. These contracts can help you pay a little less money out of pocket on repairs that aren’t covered partially or fully by your warranty or can kick into effect after your warranty expires.

However, these shouldn’t be confused with an extended warranty that you buy from the manufacturer. Instead, service contracts are agreements between you and the dealership that outline what type of repairs get covered and how much you’re expected to pay. Always look over the contract to make sure it doesn’t overlap with your vehicle’s warranty, or you’ll wind up paying double for the same coverage.

Roadside assistance coverage

A roadside assistance program can bring you peace of mind whether you’re driving a couple of miles away from home or commuting an hour to work and back each day. Most roadside assistance coverages over towing assistance, flat tire repairs or changes, or gas fill-ups if you accidentally run out. Some even offer a door unlocking service if you lock your keys in the car.

Although these incidents are rare, it’s nice to be covered if something unexpected does happen on the road. Check with your auto insurance company to see if you’re already covered in emergencies before you purchase a new plan.

Tire and wheel coverage

Replacing the tires on your vehicle can be expensive enough, but when you need to have a full work-up for your wheels, tires, and alignment after hitting a pothole, your costs can rise significantly. Opting for tire and wheel coverage can keep you protected from glass, blowouts, and other unforeseen hazards that can happen on the road. Some plans also include towing costs up to a specific amount to get your vehicle to a repair shop quickly.

Technology

When you visit the dealership to find your new vehicle, there’s a good chance that some models might have more than what you need, tacking on extra costs you don’t want to pay for. There’s also a good chance that other models won’t have the technology you were hoping for, like a rearview camera or a remote start system.

When you need just a little more from your new vehicle, you might consider adding techie features to your right at the dealership before you take it home. This helps you get exactly what you want without overpaying for tech you don’t need.

Theft protection

Your comprehensive auto insurance will likely cover the theft of your vehicle or repairs if it was damaged in a break-in, but the coverage is usually limited. For example, you’ll probably only get reimbursed for the estimated value of your car, which could be less than you still owe on it.

Purchasing extra theft protection might be worth it to you if that’s the case. This coverage can also add special identification codes to your vehicle’s glass to make it difficult to resell. Companies offering this protection also work closely with your local law enforcement to get your car returned to you.

GAP insurance

A new car’s value depreciates quickly within your first two years of ownership. If you happen to wreck your vehicle to a point where it’s unrepairable, you’ll get a payment from your insurance company. However, that payment will only cover the value of your car before your accident. It’s very possible that the payment won’t be enough to pay off your full auto loan.

GAP insurance helps fill that gap between what your insurance company pays and how much you still owe, so you won’t have to pay out of pocket and can put that money toward another vehicle.

Interior protection

If you think your interior might get put through the wringer during everyday use, you might consider buying products to protect it. For example, living in an area that’s prone to a lot of rain or having a few kids trekking their sportswear in and out of your car every day can quickly take its toll on your carpets and seats. Floor mats, floor liners, and cargo area liners can come in handy in these situations.

Not all of these aftermarket products will be worth their extra cost for you. Depending on your situation, you might only need one or two. Still, they’re excellent options to consider for your specific needs. You can always contact us at Paul Sherry Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM to learn more about our in-stock vehicles and what aftermarket options to consider.