# [Dealer fees and add-ons: keep what you want, remove the rest](https://trymumm.com/guides/dealer-fees-to-refuse)

> Get an itemized buyer’s order and mark the optional products you do not want. Ask for those charges to be removed and compare the complete out-the-door price with other written quotes. Separate government charges from dealer fees and check what is included before signing.

- **Updated:** 2026-07-20
- **Category:** Auto
- **Read time:** 7 min

## The three buckets

Separate government charges, dealer fees and optional products on the buyer’s order. Ask the dealer to explain each item and remove extras you do not want. Compare the complete total with your alternatives.

## Common add-ons and what to ask

- Paint protection: compare the included service and warranty with an independent quote.
- Nitrogen tires: ask to remove the optional charge.
- VIN etching: compare alternatives before accepting the package.
- Fabric protection: check the service and exclusions before buying.
- Market adjustment (ADM): a charge above the sticker price on high-demand models. Ask for it to be removed, or compare dealers that do not add one.
- Dealer-installed accessories (mud flaps, tint, wheels): worth it if you want them. Ask for the parts and labor price, or ask for them to be included.
- Tracking systems: decline unwanted hardware or subscriptions and confirm removal from the total.

## The doc fee

Ask for the documentation fee in writing and check the rules where you are buying. If the dealer will not change the fee, look at the total instead. Try: “Your total is higher than my other written quote. Can you match it, or add something to the package?”

## Check the final paperwork

Compare the final buyer’s order with your written quote. Ask the dealer to remove unwanted add-ons and explain any difference before signing. Use your other offers to decide whether the revised total works.

## Questions people actually ask



## Can a dealer refuse to remove add-ons?

A dealer can decline your request. Compare the complete written offer with your alternatives and choose the one that fits your priorities.

## What about “market adjustments” on high-demand models?

A market adjustment increases the dealer’s asking price. Compare matching inventory and complete quotes elsewhere, then ask the dealer to remove it or explain what is included.

## Are extended warranties and GAP coverage add-ons worth it?

Compare coverage, exclusions, provider and total cost with equivalent products available elsewhere. Ask which products are optional and review them separately from the vehicle and loan price.

## Can the dealer remove a “dealer prep” or “destination” charge?

Compare the manufacturer’s destination charge on the window sticker with the buyer’s order. Ask the dealer to explain any extra preparation charge and to remove it or include it in the price you agreed.

## Related

- [Out-the-door price: compare the complete car offer](https://trymumm.com/guides/out-the-door-price-car)
- [MSRP and incentives: how to compare new-car offers](https://trymumm.com/guides/how-much-off-msrp)