When you walk into a car dealership, the price on the sticker is rarely what you actually end up paying. Dealers often add extra fees that can catch you off guard. These charges can increase the total cost of your car more than you might expect.

The good news is, many of these fees are optional or negotiable, and you don’t have to pay all of them. Knowing which fees are common and how to handle them can save you a significant amount of money when buying your next vehicle.

VIN etching fees

VIN etching is when the dealer scratches your car’s unique ID number onto the windows. They often say it helps prevent theft since thieves would have to replace the glass to sell the car.

The catch? Dealers usually charge you extra for this service, even though it’s something you could do yourself for much less or skip altogether.

You don’t have to pay for it, especially if it’s pushed as a mandatory fee during checkout. It’s more of a sales tactic than a necessity.

Rustproofing add-ons

Rustproofing sounds like a smart move, but dealers often charge way too much for it. You can usually get this service cheaper elsewhere or even handle it yourself with available products.

Most new cars already come with factory rust protection that’s good enough for years. So, paying extra at the dealership for rustproofing is usually unnecessary.

If you’re worried about rust, research local options before agreeing to any add-ons. Don’t let dealers push you into spending on this.

Extended warranty packs

When you’re buying a car, salespeople often push extended warranty packs. These typically cost extra, but you don’t have to agree to them.

Sometimes the “extended warranty” is actually a service contract with different coverage. If you didn’t ask for it, you shouldn’t be charged for it. Always check your paperwork carefully before signing.

If you want extra coverage, shop around first. You can often find better options outside the dealership for less money.

Dealer prep fees

Dealer prep fees are charges some dealerships add to cover cleaning or inspecting the car before you take it home. The thing is, many people end up paying these fees without asking if they’re necessary.

You can usually negotiate these fees down or get rid of them altogether. Don’t hesitate to question the charge or ask for it to be removed when buying a car.

Fabric protection sprays

You might see dealerships pushing fabric protection sprays like they’re a must-have. These sprays aim to keep your seats clean, especially if you have kids or pets.

But honestly, you can get similar results with off-the-shelf products at a fraction of the price. Regular cleaning and washing your car will also go a long way without spending extra at the dealer.