Disclaimers

Date Published: February 10, 2026 | Last Modified: 1 hour ago | 4 minute read Verified by Jill Tresch at Redwater Dodge

Navigating Truck Options: What Truly Adds Value to Your Next Vehicle?

Which options are necessary and others are nice to have?

When you’re standing on the lot looking at a sea of new Ram trucks or Jeep SUVs, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the window sticker. With dozens of packages and hundreds of standalone options, the big question remains: Which features are essential for performance, and which are simply nice to have?

At Redwater Dodge, we believe in transparency. Not every option is created equal, and depending on how you use your vehicle, some features might be "must-haves" while others are just "nice-to-haves." Jill is here to breakdown of how to build a truck that works as hard as you do while retaining its value for years to come.


The "Essential" Category: 5th Wheel Prep

If you are looking at a heavy-duty diesel truck, you aren't just buying a commuter; you’re buying a tool. For those who use their truck as a truck, 5th wheel towing preparation is an absolute essential.

While you can technically add aftermarket hitches later, having the factory-installed 5th wheel prep package ensures structural integrity, integrated electrical connections, and a cleaner bed layout. From a resale perspective, a heavy-duty Ram without 5th wheel prep is often a dealbreaker for secondary buyers. If you plan on towing a high-profile trailer or a large camper, this isn't an option—it’s a requirement.

The "Nice-to-Have" Category: Sunroofs and Aesthetics

We all love the idea of a sunroof on a clear summer day. However, Jill’s expert take is that a sunroof falls firmly into the "nice-to-have" bucket. While it enhances the driving experience for some, it rarely adds significant objective value to the vehicle's appraisal down the line. If you are looking to keep your monthly payment down or maximize your budget for performance upgrades, the sunroof is often the first thing you can trim without regret.


The Middle Ground: Comfort Meets Resale Value

There is a sweet spot where luxury meets logic. Features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel might feel like a splurge when you're signing the paperwork in July, but they are essential for Northern climates. 


Beyond personal comfort, these features significantly impact your trade-in value. In the secondary market, buyers prioritize the "Cold Weather Group." A truck equipped with these comfort features will almost always move off the lot faster and command a higher price than a "base" interior. It’s an investment in your future equity.

Tech Reliability: The 10-Year/160,000km Advantage

A common concern for modern truck buyers is the longevity of high-tech features. With massive touchscreens and digital clusters becoming the norm, customers often ask: "Will this tech still work in five years?"

Stellantis has answered this concern with industry-leading coverage. Many of our trucks now come with a 10-year / 160,000 km warranty options. This warranty "speaks for itself," providing peace of mind that your vehicle's tech and powertrain are protected well into the next decade.

Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Features


Q1. Does adding a lift kit at the dealer affect my warranty?

A1. When installed by certified CDJR technicians, many Mopar lift kits are covered under the vehicle’s warranty, ensuring you get the look you want without sacrificing protection.


Q2. What is the benefit of the 5th wheel prep package over aftermarket options?

A2. The factory package includes reinforced frame mounting points and integrated 7-pin wiring in the bed, which is more reliable and maintains the factory's structural warranty.


Q3. Do heated seats really help with resale value?

A3. Absolutely. In regions with cold winters, like Redwater Alberta, "Cold Weather" packages are among the most requested features by pre-owned buyers, making your vehicle much easier to trade in later.

Jill Tresch -- Sales at Redwater Dodge