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

In the Northwest Territories, as across Canada, add-ons such as rustproofing, paint protection, extended warranties, and VIN etching are typically high-margin products offered by dealerships during the financing process. While often presented as essential, most are entirely optional and carry a significant markup, which directly inflates your total car loan amount and monthly payments, a particularly impactful consideration in the current 2025 high-interest-rate environment. Many modern vehicles come with robust factory rust protection and durable paint finishes, often rendering aftermarket applications largely redundant or of limited additional value. Similarly, VIN etching, while a theft deterrent, can often be purchased cheaper independently or may not be necessary if your insurance policy already provides comprehensive theft coverage. Consumers in NT, under general Canadian consumer protection principles, have the unequivocal right to decline any add-on, and it's crucial to understand that these are primarily profit centers for dealerships, not mandatory components of your vehicle purchase or financing. Always scrutinize these offerings, ask for detailed breakdowns of costs versus benefits, and be prepared to firmly decline them unless you've thoroughly researched their true value and determined a genuine, unmet need that isn't already covered by your vehicle's warranty or insurance.