dcf.org.uk

Every year, the big car manufacturers reveal their new model in a blaze of publicity. The lucky few of us who can afford to buy a new car every year beat a hasty track to the car showroom to get on the waiting list, the majority of us give a resigned sigh, and climb into our trusty and reliable cars, feeling a bit guilty for having such lavish aspirations.

The thing that gets is me is that, correct me if I’m wrong, a car is meant to get you from A to B in comfort and with as little hassle as possible. So why are more and more cars charging ridiculously inflated prices to cover the cost of their many gadgets? Yes, a good stereo is worth paying for, and SATNAV and airbags are important, but surely only a long distance lorry driver needs a tachometer!

Does your car have an air scarf? Mine neither. Have you missed out by not having one? Me neither. This apparently keeps your neck warm so you can get more use from your convertible, that’s makes as much sense as adding sugar to mouthwash! If you are driving a rocket launcher, parking control would be of great benefit, if you are driving a mini however, it’s as ridiculous as getting instructions with a toothbrush.

The more luxurious the car gets, the more utter stupidity seems to have been applied to the design of their gizmos. An emergency boot release could come in handy if your groceries are suffocating, but to put them on cars with boots barely capable of carrying a few tubes of toothpaste is ludicrous.

Check the small print and don’t pay extra for these gadgets, they literally aren’t worth the paper they’re written on.