In NB, what should I know about add-ons and etching for car loans?

In New Brunswick, when securing a car loan, you will frequently be presented with various add-ons and services, including VIN etching, extended warranties, rustproofing, paint protection, fabric protection, and GAP insurance. These are almost universally optional and represent high-margin revenue streams for dealerships. In the current 2025 economic climate, with elevated interest rates, financing these extras means you will pay interest on them for the entire loan term, significantly inflating your total cost of ownership and monthly payments. While some, like GAP insurance, might offer specific benefits depending on your down payment and vehicle depreciation, many are often overpriced, provide limited real-world value, or duplicate coverage you might already possess through your manufacturer's warranty or personal insurance policy. New Brunswick's consumer protection legislation, consistent with Canadian standards, mandates that these items be clearly disclosed as optional, and you are under no obligation to accept them to finalize your vehicle purchase or loan. It is critical to scrutinize each offering, understand its true cost and benefit, and compare it against third-party alternatives. Unless you have thoroughly researched and genuinely determined an add-on provides essential, non-duplicative value for your specific needs, the most financially prudent approach is to politely decline them to keep your loan principal and overall vehicle costs as low as possible.