What Should Be Included When Buying a Car?
4 Answers
Typically, when purchasing a car, some dealerships may offer sun films, which are divided into full-body and partial-body options, both being quite practical. In addition to sun films, some dealerships might also provide floor mats or carpets, which help maintain cleanliness inside the vehicle. Furthermore, mud flaps might be included as a practical accessory. Other possible gifts include trunk waterproof mats, cargo nets, seat covers, engine guards, and for higher-end vehicles, even satellite navigation devices. Here are some points to note about these complimentary items: 1. Steering wheel covers: First on the list are steering wheel covers. Among car accessories, these are merely decorative and offer little functional benefit for driving. If a low-quality steering wheel cover is used, its low friction coefficient may cause it to slip during steering, leading to imprecise control and potential hazards in emergencies. 2. Sun films: Many car owners apply sun films to their car windows after purchasing a new vehicle, primarily for sun protection and privacy in the cabin. While offering sun films is a common sales tactic by 4S shops, the quality of these films often has flaws, with the most noticeable issue being a strong odor. 3. Car ornaments: To cater to some owners' preferences for decorating their car interiors, some 4S shops may offer hanging or dashboard ornaments. However, placing items near the dashboard can obstruct the deployment of airbags in emergencies. Additionally, during severe jolts, these ornaments can easily injure the vehicle's occupants.
Last time I helped a relative negotiate, I did my homework. Essential items like floor mats and trunk liners must be original equipment manufacturer (OEM) freebies from the dealer—they fit much better than online purchases. Always ask about the brand and warranty period for window tinting films; no-name films can bubble up in just two years, which is frustrating. Try to negotiate for several basic maintenance services, ideally those covering engine oil, oil filters, and labor costs. Fuel cards and extended warranties are solid bargaining chips, especially for EV owners—getting a charging station installation service is even more practical. Test the night vision of any dash cam on the spot; I’ve seen freebies that couldn’t even capture license plates clearly. Though often overlooked, fire extinguishers and toolkits come in handy during inspections. Realistically, you’re not getting a bad deal unless the freebies add up to over ¥3,000 in value.
From my experience, focus on these key points: Make sure maintenance coupons are written into the contract to avoid future disputes; Underbody protection depends on your location—coastal cities need it more; Crystal coating is more cost-effective than waxing, and protecting the paint on a new car is crucial; Collapsible boxes and first aid kits are practical for daily use. Don't be fooled by salespeople into accepting impractical gifts like steering wheel covers or perfumes—they're just flashy and take up your quota. Try to exchange for more maintenance services or extended warranties, which can save you thousands in later car maintenance costs. Remember, all gifts must be listed on the delivery note—verbal promises are easily denied later.
As a seasoned driver, here are some key freebies to keep in mind: The OEM dash cam must come with parking surveillance—I’ve learned this the hard way. Tire pressure monitoring is crucial for safe driving. Branded window films make a huge difference in heat insulation during summer. Confirm whether the maintenance package includes labor costs. Heated steering wheel covers are more practical than regular fluffy ones, especially for drivers in northern regions. Pay attention to the capacity of the fire extinguisher—those under 1kg are basically useless. Always verify the shop’s qualifications for coating services on the spot, as roadside shops vary widely in quality.
