Some car features add real value, but others cost extra, are rarely used or are expensive to fix when they fail. When choosing a used car, focus on safety, comfort and running costs, and do not pay more for gadgets you will not use.

Which features are often not worth paying extra for?

These are the ones many drivers find they rarely use. If you would use one, it may still be worth having.

Built-in sat nav: most cars now support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which let you use phone apps with live traffic. Built-in systems may need paid map updates.
Rear-seat screens: most passengers now use their own tablets and phones.
Gesture control: waving at the dashboard to change volume can be hit and miss, and the normal buttons do the same job.
Fragrance systems: replacement cartridges can be dear compared with an ordinary air freshener.
In-car Wi-Fi subscriptions: a phone hotspot usually does the same job without another monthly bill.
Artificial engine sound: many drivers switch it off.

Which features can be costly to repair?

Complex parts can be expensive when they go wrong, particularly once a car is out of warranty:

Pop-up or flush door handles, which can stick in icy weather
Camera-based door mirrors, which replace glass mirrors with screens
Air suspension, which gives a smooth ride but can be costly to repair
Large panoramic sunroofs, where seals and blinds can wear

None of these is a reason to avoid a car on its own, but check they work properly on a test drive and ask whether any warranty covers them.

Is keyless entry a risk?

Keyless entry is convenient, but some systems can be targeted by thieves using relay devices that copy the key's signal. Keep the key away from doors and windows at home, store it in a signal-blocking pouch, and switch off the keyless function if the car allows it.

Which features are worth having?

Safety systems: automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and blind-spot monitoring. Our guide to car safety features explains what each does.
Smartphone connection: Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for navigation, music and hands-free calls.
Rear parking sensors or a camera: they help avoid small, costly scrapes.
Heated seats and steering wheel: useful in winter, and in electric cars they use less energy than heating the whole cabin.
Adaptive cruise control: helpful if you do a lot of motorway driving.

Common questions

Do extra features add value when I sell?

Some do, such as safety systems and smartphone connection. Expensive options often add less to the resale price than they cost new. Our guide on why cars lose value explains more.

Can I turn off features I do not want?

Many driver aids and sounds can be switched off in the settings, though some safety systems switch back on each time the car is started.

How can I check a used car's features work?

Try everything on the test drive: screens, cameras, sensors, heated seats, windows and air conditioning. Ask about anything that does not work before you buy.

Looking for your next car?

Browse the cars we have in stock or call our sales team in Barnsley on 01226 574410.

Updated October 2026.

Car Features Worth Having, and Ones You Can Skip