“Get what you want, not what they want you to buy,” a former car dealer says. When purchasing your car, a dealer cannot require you to accept any additional options for any reason. Pay careful attention to the contract because often a few extras can end up in your deal and you may not notice.

You can order your car with whatever options you desire and anytime options are forced as a condition of the sale is an illegal practice, says the former car dealer. Sure you may want a sunroof, iPod outlet and window tinting, but sunblock for your car? Say no thanks. Paint waxes, sealants and sun protectants are unnecessary as cars are treated with such safeguards before ever leaving the assembly line.

Rustproofing is also unnecessary, as the bodies of cars are manufactured with a rust prevention treatment. Anything extra is superfluous. Similarly, the fabric interior of the car was likely treated to protect from wear and tear, so there’s really no need for the scotch guard or fabric protectant, according to Consumer Reports. Check to see what treatments the car has already undergone. Your worries will dissipate as you see premature rusting and paint fading as already covered in the manufacturer’s guarantee.

With any of these options, remember that a quick trip to your local auto-parts store instead could save you tons of cash. If you want extra paint wax or a fabric protectant, a can of each costs under $20. The same philosophy should be applied to trunk toys like cargo nets. Every extra option means money out of your pocket and if you really want it later a local retailer is a drive away.

Window etching is another expenditure that’s not necessary. Some dealers will offer an anti-theft precaution by having the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched onto your car’s window. This is not a legal requirement, but if you would feel better with the VIN displayed in the window, head back to the auto-parts story. Savvy car consumers know they can purchase window-etching kits for a fraction of the cost.

All the theft-deterrent devices are big-ticket options. As with all the extras, consider the cost if purchased elsewhere and the value to your lifestyle before agreeing.

The biggest last-minute extra is the extended warranty. Extended warranties go under many names such as service contract, maintenance agreement and supplemental coverage. But one thing all these repair agreements have in common is the hefty cost, easily adding $1,000 to the purchase price of a car. Also make sure to look into the pros and cons of an extended warranty.

Documentation fees, inspections stickers and other government fees can usually not be avoided, with regulations varying state by state. You most likely won’t get the dealer to waive such fees. As for anything else, remember that you’re the one in the driver’s seat.