With my Mini's ship about to enter the Panama Canal, I thought I'd stop by my dealer to get the "purchase order" my credit union wants to complete my loan with them. I haven't bought a new vehicle in 16 years. I could have waited until the car arrived at the dealer, as thay give us 5 days to deliver a check if we're not financing through Mini/BMW.

I'd forgotten about the gauntlet of choices/ value added/ options the dealer's finance dept. will try to sell you when closing the deal.

So, my question to you all is.. what, if any, of the options did you purchase, such as laser I.D.ing the windows, paint protection/glazing ( reminds me of Fargo's "True Coat" ), etc.

Prior to yesterday I had considered getting the extended warranty. I was informed that it included a 100.00 deductible any time ( after the original warranty expired ) when and if I actually brought the vehicle in for repair ( separate from the extended "Maintenance" agreement, which extends the dealer maintenance schedule, which to me, goes too long between oil changes. I'll save my money and do all that myself.. It doesn't have a deductible however ). The deductible on the extended warranty was a deal breaker for me. I will probably come close to, or exceed 100,000 miles in 4 years, so it would have probably not been a smart choice anyway, if I understood the terms correctly.

The F.M. used friendly but firm pressure to try to sell me these add ons. I kindly declined until she realized I wasn't biting. She did let me know I could still purchase them when I pick up the vehicle.

I don't have the paperwork with me right now, but will post all of the options here when I get a chance. It might save someone a poor choice in the moment, whether for or against..

In the mean time, what's the consensus out there regarding these options?

Bill in P.G.

 

I'd seriously consider the clear bra (aka invisi-shield). The warranty (unless something has changed in the last month) wouldn't be through mini, but through a 3rd party servicer. And you can add it on at any point up until the original warranty expires. You may be able to shop and get a better deal.

Your insurance may give you a break if you get the low-jack, but most of the other finance add ons are discussed in many threads. Some really like the tire and wheel coverage, others think that ANYTHING sold by the finance dept is a rip off that you can price out for a lot less after you bring your baby home.

Again, I went for the clear bra-- we have it on hubby's car-- and I didn't want to drive the 3 1/2 hours home from the dealer on the interstate and have rock chips when I got home. I bet I could have found someone local for less, but, I didn't want to chance it. I ALMOST had the dealer tint the windows, but I decided to see how I was my first summer without tint, and then I'll see if I need it or not.

 

Hubby wanted to get the Tire/Wheel Warranty w/Run Flats I think it was a wise purchase @ $350. FYI - Hubby is a Penny Pincher on Big Ticket items.