When buying a new car, it’s easy to get lured into paying extra for features that sound appealing but may not offer real value. Understanding which features to skip can save you money without sacrificing your driving experience. Here are seven car features I believe you should never pay extra for.

Premium Sound Systems

While a high-end sound system can enhance your listening experience, the reality is that factory-installed premium sound systems often don’t deliver a significant difference compared to standard options. Many people find that they are perfectly satisfied with the sound quality of a basic system. For instance, the standard audio system in a 2022 Honda Accord provides excellent sound without the hefty price tag associated with the upgraded systems offered by brands like Bose or Harman Kardon.

If you’re a music lover, consider investing in quality speakers or headphones instead. Additionally, many smartphones now offer impressive audio quality through Bluetooth, making the need for an expensive sound system even less relevant. You can find discussions about unnecessary car features on platforms like Reddit.

Navigation Systems

Modern smartphones have made built-in navigation systems largely obsolete. With apps like Google Maps and Waze providing real-time updates and traffic information, you might find that paying extra for a car’s integrated navigation system isn’t worth it. For instance, in the 2023 Toyota RAV4, the built-in navigation is often less user-friendly and slower to update than your mobile device.

Furthermore, many car manufacturers now offer smartphone integration options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to use your phone’s navigation through the car’s display. This functionality makes it clear that the traditional navigation option is no longer a necessity, saving you both money and hassle.

Leather Upholstery

Leather seats may seem luxurious, but they often come with a hefty markup. Many people overlook the fact that high-quality cloth upholstery can be just as comfortable, durable, and easier to maintain. For example, the fabric seats in the 2023 Subaru Forester are often reported to be less slippery and cooler in hot weather compared to leather. They also don’t require special cleaning products, making them a better long-term investment.

Additionally, synthetic leather options are available that provide a similar aesthetic without the downsides of real leather, such as cracking and fading over time. This is a feature I’d recommend skipping to save some cash while still enjoying a comfortable ride.

Advanced Safety Features

While safety should always be a priority, many advanced safety features come standard in newer models, making it unnecessary to pay extra for them. Features like automatic emergency braking or lane-keeping assist are increasingly included in vehicles across various price ranges. For instance, the 2023 Honda Civic comes with Honda Sensing, a suite of safety and driver-assist technologies, standard even on the base model.

Opting for these features as add-ons can significantly inflate the price. Instead, focus on vehicles that already include these technologies as standard, ensuring you get essential safety without spending extra.

Sunroofs and Moonroofs

Sunroofs and moonroofs can be appealing, offering an airy feel to your ride, but they are often overpriced and may lead to additional maintenance costs down the line. The 2022 Ford Escape offers a panoramic sunroof as an option, but many owners report that it seldom gets used, making the extra cost unjustifiable.

Moreover, sunroofs can be a source of leaks and increased cabin noise, detracting from the overall driving experience. If you enjoy fresh air, simply rolling down the windows is a more economical and hassle-free option.

Blind Spot Monitoring

While blind spot monitoring can enhance safety, many drivers find that they can rely on traditional mirrors and head checks effectively. The feature is often bundled in expensive packages, and you might be better off simply mastering mirror adjustments and safe driving habits. Car models like the 2022 Kia Sportage have this feature available, but its necessity can be debated.

Investing in a good set of mirrors can often provide the same level of awareness without the added cost. Many drivers have successfully navigated their daily commutes without needing this feature, making it a candidate for your “no extra pay” list.

Upgraded Wheel Packages

Upgraded wheel packages can dramatically change the appearance of a vehicle, but they often come with a significant markup. For example, opting for the 20-inch alloy wheels on a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado can cost you well over a thousand dollars more than the standard wheels. While they may look nice, they can also negatively impact ride quality and fuel efficiency.

Instead of paying extra for flashy wheels, consider investing in quality tire replacements or a set of stylish hubcaps. This way, you can upgrade your vehicle’s look without the hefty price tag associated with larger wheels.