I’m a Car Dealer: Skip These 6 Overpriced Car Features This Year
Too many car buyers set their budgets by the base price, only to spend thousands more as the dealer upsells them. So which overpriced car features should you skip in 2026 as you shop for a new ride?
1. Extended Warranties
Car dealers know the statistical likelihood of each repair within the warranty window. And they always come out ahead in that math, ensuring against repairs unlikely to happen.
Many “extended” warranties cover risks already included in the manufacturer's warranty, according to Jennifer Myers of Kunes Auto Group.
“People purchase extended service contracts to minimize repair risk, but when you factor in what's already covered under the base warranty and what exclusions are buried in the contract, you're effectively paying for repairs that statistically won't happen during the coverage period,” Myers said.
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2. Manufacturer Infotainment Systems
Your smartphone — and its Android Auto or Apple CarPlay — offers much better entertainment features than manufacturer-specific systems. So why have manufacturers switched to trying to upsell you on their own versions?
They see an opportunity to charge you more money, of course. But it goes beyond that.
“Manufacturers are moving away from Apple and Android integrations because they want to own the data and marketing platform,” Myers said. “They want you to use their Mercedes app or Chevy app or whatever proprietary system they've built, which just ends up being one more app you have to figure out how to use.”
3. Upgraded Sound Systems
Everyone loves to think they’re an audiophile. But the average driver can’t tell the difference between the standard speakers and the premium sound package.
“Premium systems can add $1,000 to $3,000, but for most drivers listening to podcasts or streaming music on their commute, the standard sound system is more than enough,” Myers said.
4. Heated Seats (in Mild Climates)
Sure, heated seats are nice in northern Minnesota. But for much of the country, they just don’t add much practical use.
Myers urges buyers to think twice before shelling out the extra $500 to $1,500.
“In moderate climates, you're paying for something you'll use just a handful of times per year,” she said.
5. Panoramic Sunroofs
Likewise, panoramic sunroofs look slick, but they serve little practical purpose.
Melanie Musson, auto expert with AutoInsurance, sees buyers blow extra money on these not just up-front but also over time.
“You risk requiring extremely costly repairs. If you get a leak, you have to fix not just the sunroof but the water damage to both the upholstery and the electronic systems,” Musson said.
6. Oversized Wheels
Some people can’t resist the allure of oversize wheels, but they add not just cost but complications for maintenance.
“A ton of research and money go into engineering vehicles to maximize efficiency and durability, and when you choose cosmetics over science, things aren’t going to work as well,” Musson said. “There’s the initial cost of wheel upgrades, but then there’s the ongoing cost of replacing tires, dealing with suspension problems and even mileage discrepancies.”
Stick to what the engineers designed. Your wallet will thank you both now and in the future.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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