Car optional extras that are worth paying for

When buying a new car, the options can be confusing and daunting, especially if they are sold as a package. What do you need the most? What would you like to have, but in reality would never use? Some extras that you can buy are worth it. Some aren’t. Before you get too excited, let’s look at a few choices that are worth the money.

CRUISE CONTROL

Every motorist makes use of this feature at some time, and many second-hand car buyers place a high value on it. These days, cruise control is a standard feature on most new vehicles, but if yours doesn’t have it, and you have the opportunity to purchase it as an optional extra, you should.

PARKING SENSORS

The parking sensors are a great investment because they alert you with a series of beeps if you’re getting too close to an object while parking or reversing. You can see how near you are to an obstacle with the help of a parking camera and an on-screen graphic in some models. If you’re not so good at or confident with parking, having parking sensors could save you a lot of stress and even some money if you tend to bump into things when reversing. 

BLIND SPOT MONITOR 

The blind-spot monitor usually costs more and uses radar to find and warn you about cars you can’t see in your side mirrors. Once you have it, you’ll always use it to change lanes in a safer way, however, and it will certainly make driving much more of a pleasure rather than something that causes a lot of anxiety. 

WINTER TIRES

If you have all-season tires on your car, you might assume that they’ll allow you to drive safely no matter what time of year it is. In fact, the truth is that these tires are fine for spring, summer, and fall, but not so great for winter. If you want to be safe driving in winter, it’s better to pay extra for some winter tires. They’ll offer a better grip and ensure you don’t skid so much on ice and snow. 

SPARE WHEEL

The majority of vehicles sold nowadays come equipped with a foam tire inflator; however, this accessory can only be used once before it needs to be replaced at the dealership for a fee. A spare tire, on the other hand, does not need to be replaced every time you are forced to change a wheel, and it is easier to maintain. It’s also safer – changing the tire entirely and then buying a new one to keep as a spare is a much better option if you want to be safe on the road. 

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

Although technically not an extra you would buy when you purchase the car, roadside assistance is an extra nonetheless, and it is a crucial one. If you don’t have roadside assistance, you’ll have to fix whatever the problem is that made your car break down on your own, which can be hard and take a long time. But if you have roadside assistance, all you have to do is make a phone call, and someone will come to help you out. They will either jumpstart your vehicle or tow it to a nearby repair shop.


Photo Credit: Toyota

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