Options and Accessories
Factory Options
Factory options are those options that are fitted at the factory as part of the manufacturing process. There are two factory options of particular interest:- Safety Pack. Not all models have a Safety Pack as an option, but many have them (or similar). Safety is becoming a more important consideration for car buyers and you will have an easier time selling the car if it has “safety features”.
- Sunroof. There have been many bad experiences (i.e. leaking water) with aftermarket (or dealer fitted) sunroofs. If you want a sunroof, you’re well advised to make sure it’s factory fitted.
Dealer Options
Dealer options include such things as towbars, headlight protectors, bonnet protector, and mud spats. Basically, it is an item that is best fitted by the dealer since in many cases it will avoid any warranty issues if there are problems down the track. (e.g. Was the damage caused by the way the towbar was fitted, or by the way the car was designed?)Aftermarket Options
Aftermarket options are those sold by “the aftermarket lady” in dealerships. We have a separate section discussing paint protection and fabric protection. Other items include mats, window tinting, and car phone kits (which are not so common now).Whilst there are good reasons to have “dealer options” fitted by the dealer, you should consider having the aftermarket options done after delivery. Any aftermarket option you specify from the dealer will be subject to stamp duty. The stamp duty varies depending on what state you’re in, but generally ranges between 2% and 5%. In addition, if your car is subject to luxury car tax, all accessories will attract an additional charge of 25% of the price (above the LCT limit). If you buy your accessories separately from the vehicle, you avoid these unnecessary added costs. Of course, the dealer would rather sell them to you. You might think dealers get a better price on (say) window tinting. You’re right! Unfortunately, they will not pass on the saving to you. Instead, most dealers see these items as an “added service” and charge more than what the regular price would have been (from a tinting specialist).
Window tinting is highly recommended because it:
- Protects the interior from UV light.
- Keeps the car cooler.
- Reduces running costs (less need for air conditioning because of the lower temperature).
- Enhances the appearance of the car.
Some like to specify “darker than legal” tinting. while this may look good, you need to remember that it is illegal, and police may issue you an unroadworthiness certificate, forcing you to remove it. Also, darker than legal tinting is very obtrusive at night time. It may also affect any insurance claims you make. We strongly recommend that you do not choose darker than legal tinting. Tinting should be done after delivery to ensure you do not pay stamp duty or luxury car tax on the cost.
Fabric protection does work. It provides a very resistant protection for the interior. We recommend you get this done after delivery to avoid stamp duty and/or luxury car tax being charged. Read more about it here
Mag Wheels / Special Tyres
You need to get quotes from your local tyre dealers. The way to do it is this: Buy your new car with standard tyres and rims. When you take delivery, you drive straight over to your tyre dealer where you have pre-arranged the changeover to new wheels and/or tyres. The tyre dealer will resell your old tyres as brand new ones, and you will save a great deal of money. Especially if your car costs more than $57,000 as the luxury car tax will ensure you pay an extra 25% on your accessories. Please note that fitting non-standard rims and or tyres can lead to unexpected problems:- Fitting a wheel or tyre with a non-standard profile will give inaccurate speedo readings. Not only will your current speed be wrong, but so will your overall mileage.
- Fitting a lower profile tyre will adversely affect the ride of the car. It may look great, but you will suffer fatigue over longer distances due to the reduced shock absorption.
- Fitting non-standard rims/tyres will affect the handling of the car. In some cases, you may get better handling, but in many cases it may get worse. You should consult a professional tyre mechanic before making your choices.
Testimonials
Just picked up the Madza and we are both delighted with the price and the service. Your service is brilliant ... I can't of a better way to buy a new car. On behalf of Val and myself a BIG THANK YOU!
K.J., Melbourne
Chris, You are a champ. Your advice on the trade-in worked a treat. I have a buyer at $14,280. A cool $2280 above the original figure! Thanks mate!
B.M., Melbourne
Just a brief note to say thanks for your outstanding service. You managed to find a dealer who was prepared to reduce the purchase by some $6750 inclusive of all costs and then you went further by haggling for a better trade in for me giving me a change over cost of exactly $13500 less... THAT I CALL SERVICE...I shall certainly be singing your praises.
K.B., Sydney
All I wanted was to buy a car with no hassle and at a decent price. I was very happy with your service and I will use you again in the future. I guess that says it all, doesn't it?
A.M., Brisbane
I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the discounts of RRP that the dealer was putting down, more than made up for the cost of the fog lights and the paint protection which I optioned in! I signed the dotted line and bought my first brand new Hyundai. I will take delivery less than a week after signing, which I find quite impressive.
S.B., Sydney
Living overseas but about to return to Australia, we found that buying a new car was going to be a daunting process. Carbroker.com.au took all the hassle out of it and came up with a very competitive price as well. All we had to do was choose the model, pay a deposit and then pick up the car as soon as we arrived back in Australia. This is a great service for expats who are returning to Australia
P.H., Yamba
Thanks for the quote. I am kicking my self slightly. In the weekend I went to my local dealer to test drive the car and was offered exactly my spec with 1500km on the clock. 3 months old for $55K (the GMs car). I had to make a call on the spot because another chap was also looking at it. I thought this would be pretty hard to beat so i went for it. If i had waited i guess i would have an absolutely new car and with 12 months worth of rego not 9. We live and learn. Next time. Thanks and regards
W.D., Sydney
Thank you for the service. The advice was good and the price reasonable. The dealer came to me at work both to value the trade in and to deliver the new car.
T.A., Melbourne
Fast replies, great service and most importantly, extraordinary prices. Anyone buying a new car not using this service is not fair dinkum about getting the best price and probably paying too much. The service saved me thousands. Will definitely be using it again when next buying a new car and have been telling all my friends about it. Keep up the good work.
J.G., Perth
Your prompt and professional service was very appreciated, and we will recommend your service on to our friends and family.
C.K., Melbourne