Outsmart the Lot
Outsmart the Lot
Back to Tactics Library
Fee Scam

The Nitrogen Tire Scam

Why pay $199 (or $599!) for something that is already 78% of the air you breathe?

Is It Worth It?

The Simple Version

No. The air you breathe is already 78% Nitrogen. Dealers charge you hundreds of dollars to remove the other 22% of gases. It provides almost zero benefit for normal driving.

The Science: The atmosphere of Earth is composed of approximately 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen, with small amounts of other gases.

When a dealer fills your tires with "Pure Nitrogen," they are using a machine to filter out the oxygen, bringing the nitrogen concentration up to about 93-95%.

The Claims vs. Reality:

  • Claim: "It keeps tire pressure more stable."
    True, but only marginally. This matters for Formula 1 race cars where tire pressure changes of 0.5 PSI change the race. For your commute to the grocery store? You will never notice.
  • Claim: "It prevents wheel corrosion."
    Modern alloy wheels are coated and extremely resistant to corrosion. This is a solution to a problem that hasn't existed since the 1970s.

The Real Cost: Costco and many tire shops will fill your tires with Nitrogen for FREE. The dealer is charging you $200+ for a green plastic valve cap.

How to decline it:

"The FTC says I cannot be forced to pay for optional products. I am declining the nitrogen. If it's already in the tires, that's fine, but I am not paying for it."

Quick Decision

The Bottom Line

NEVER PAY THIS FEE.

If they refuse to remove the fee, tell them you are walking away over the principle of being forced to buy air. They will almost always waive it.

What's Next?

VIN Etching

Another useless add-on

Battle Plans

Step-by-step buying guides

Negotiation Scripts

What to say to decline

Calculators

Verify their numbers