Buy a Used Car for Less: 10 Fees to Never Pay at a Dealership
Buying a used car should be exciting—not filled with surprise fees that drive up the cost. At Mike’s Car Store in Georgetown, IN, we believe in total transparency. That’s why we’re giving you a breakdown of the most common dealership fees that you shouldn’t be paying. If your goal is to buy a used car for less, avoiding these unnecessary costs is a great place to start.
Here are 10 fees you can—and should—push back on.
1. Paint Protection
Dealers often try to sell paint protection packages, but these services are low-cost to them and overpriced for you. Worse, they rarely use high-quality ceramic coating products. You're better off getting professional protection from a local detailing shop.
2. Delivery & Destination Charges (On Used Cars)
While new cars come with a destination fee, some dealerships sneak in a second delivery fee on used vehicles. If you see this on your quote, ask for it to be removed—it’s usually just extra dealer profit.
3. Blinking Brake Lights
Pitched as a “safety upgrade,” these can cost $500 or more. However, there’s no solid data to support their effectiveness, and installing them could even void your warranty.
4. Credit Life & Disability Insurance
This shows up during financing—usually introduced with emotionally driven questions. It’s an expensive add-on with little actual benefit. Stick to your own life or disability coverage, if needed.
5. Dealer Prep or Reconditioning Fees
You may hear that this fee covers cleaning or fueling the car. But most of those costs are already built into the pricing or reimbursed. At Mike’s, we never charge extra just for making the car ready for you.
6. Third-Party GPS/Tracking Systems
Most newer vehicles already come with built-in GPS systems. Any aftermarket GPS system a dealer tries to upsell is unnecessary and overpriced. If you need one, buy it online and save hundreds.
7. Theft Protection
Dealers may push VIN etching or theft recovery plans. In most cases, this “protection” offers little real coverage. VIN etching can be done yourself for far less than the dealer charges.
8. Accessories & Add-Ons
Truck owners, beware: add-ons like side steps, bed covers, and more are often marked up significantly at the dealership. You can get better pricing and equal quality by buying direct from the accessory manufacturer.
9. Tire & Wheel Protection
These plans sound good on paper, but road hazard claims are hard to qualify for, and these plans can cost $1,000 or more. Read the fine print closely, or just skip it
10. Key Replacement Add-Ons
Modern car keys are pricey, but dealer replacement plans are often even worse. At Mike’s Car Store, we include a second key whenever possible and work with Tom’s Key Company to help you replace a lost key at up to 80% less than other dealers.
Buy a Used Car for Less—The Right Way
At Mike’s Car Store, we’re not just another dealership—we’re your partner in the car-buying process. As a Georgetown-based used car dealer and home of the #1 most-watched car salesman on the planet, we know what it takes to help customers buy a used car for less without falling into common traps.
Even if you’re shopping somewhere else, we’re happy to offer advice and help protect you from shady fees. And if you're ready to shop with confidence, check out our hand-picked selection of high-quality used vehicles—no hidden costs, just great cars.
