Advertisement
How do you know which car security products are mandatory and how much should you pay for them?
Q: “My dealer wants to charge me $498 for security products, including window etching, which he says is mandatory when you buy a car. Is this true?”
—M. Belliveau, Shediac, N.B.
A: In Canada we require an electronic theft deterrent, which is frequently integrated with the ignition key. To my knowledge, no province requires etching, though some dealers apply it across-the-board to vehicles in their inventory. Cost to the dealer of the etching product, including paperwork and “registration” with the marketing company, ranges from $60 to about $100. We have seen customers charged $149 to $495. Our recommendation: $498 is expensive. Decline the product, unless your insurer tells you it’s eligible for a discount. If it’s already on the vehicle, tell them you’ll pass on the “registration” and warranty, and you’ll pay just their purchase cost.
George Iny is the president of the Automobile Protection Association. Send him your automotive questions at [email protected]
Share this article Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linkedin Share on Reddit Share on Email
Roadside assistance isn’t something you think about—until you need it. Having one of these credit cards can ensure you're...
As the affordable first car becomes increasingly hard to find for young buyers, auto experts offer these tips for...
Car loan interest rates can be as confusing as a complicated recipe, and just as daunting to navigate. This...
Buying your first car in Canada is like any other major purchase. Ask a lot of questions, not just...
The Canadian government is sending out its first carbon rebate of 2025. See who’s eligible and how much you...
Before taking out a loan, learn the differences between these two types, which has better interest rates, and which...
A new EY survey has found that demand for EVs and hybrid vehicles has dropped slightly, with drivers citing...
Buying a car is a big deal. Understand the financial part of the purchase and, hopefully, save yourself some...
Need the best interest rate? Want fixed payments or flexibility? Find out the differences between personal loans and lines...
Looking for a new car? What you should know about leasing versus owning.