August 20, 2025
Can I decline add-on products and services when purchasing a new vehicle?
Dear Consumer Ed:
When purchasing a new vehicle, can consumers decline add-on services or products they don’t want, such as a screen protector, window tinting, and extra USB cables?
Consumer Ed says:
Yes, consumers do have the right to turn down “add-on services” when they are purchasing a new car. Add-on services are completely optional goods or services that might be sold with your new car, such as rustproofing, nitrogen tires, or a service contract. As a consumer you have the right to decline any or all of these services. You may also be able to negotiate the price of these services if you do choose to purchase them.
Add-on charges must be included in the advertised vehicle price when: (1) the add-on services or products have already been added to the vehicle or (2) a service or product has not been added, but inclusion of the item is required in order to purchase or lease the vehicle. Make sure the dealer actually performs the service or installs the product you requested and always read every line of any paperwork the dealer presents to you. Some products and services may also be cancelable within a certain time period or in certain circumstances, depending on the terms for the product. Read the terms of your contract carefully and follow the cancellation procedure described in the contract. A refund, if provided, is likely to be prorated and/or applied to the outstanding loan balance if a vehicle is financed.
If you believe a dealer is unfairly charging for add-ons above the advertised price or that the product cancellation process for an add-on you no longer want is not being followed, you can file a complaint with the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division by visiting consumer.ga.gov or calling (404) 651-8600.
Submit your own question to Consumer Ed. Remember…we do not give legal advice. Always consult a lawyer about legal issues.