What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Are dealer insurance packages worth the extra?

I'm picking up a new BMW shortly and the dealer is keen to sell me GAP insurance, smart insurance (for the bodywork), tyre and alloy insurance, and ceramic paint protection. Each are £500. Are any of these things worth it, and if so am I better buying them from aftermarket insurers?

Asked on 17 September 2021 by martin tonbridge

Answered by Dan Powell
It is difficult to answer this question without knowing what level of cover these insurance products provide.

Many salespeople at dealerships will get a commission from the sale of extras, like GAP and wheel insurance. As a general rule, I would always recommend comparing the insurance products (and the level of cover) being offered here with third party insurers. It's possible you will save money and get a better insurance product with another provider.

Another thing to note is that if you do want a ceramic coat applied, make sure you get it done by a professional. Some dealers will be able to do this, but some are just trying to upsell this to you in order to make more commission.

For advice on GAP insurance, see: www.honestjohn.co.uk/cheap-gap-insurance/
Similar questions
I am about to buy a brand new Mazda CX-5 and have been offered two options that are new to me. The first is Autotrust which apparently covers the difference in the cost of me buying a new replacement if...
I've taken your advice and ordered a petrol Nissan Qashqai 1.6. Should I wait for the September reg or does it not matter? It's a new car and I've paid cash, could you advise me on anything I should consider...
We are about to purchase a new Hyundai i10 automatic but, rather than let the dealer sort the GAP insurance, we should like to arrange this ourselves via the internet. We remember that this subject was...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer