TEAM AUTO | THE GOAN
Buying a new car is a significant investment, and the excitement of taking delivery can sometimes make buyers overlook important details. With the keys handed over and the vehicle decorated for delivery, it is tempting to drive straight out of the showroom. However, spending a little time inspecting the car before accepting delivery can help prevent unnecessary trouble later.
One of the most important steps is conducting a pre-delivery inspection (PDI). Ideally, this should be done before completing the final payment and registration formalities, allowing buyers to raise concerns before formally accepting the vehicle.
Check exterior and paintwork
Begin with a thorough inspection of the car's exterior. Walk around the vehicle and look for scratches, dents, paint imperfections, uneven panel gaps or signs of damage. Pay particular attention to the bumpers, doors, bonnet, boot and roof, as these areas can sometimes be overlooked.
Check the condition of the windscreen, windows, mirrors and headlights. Ensure there are no cracks, scratches or visible defects. Buyers should also inspect the tyres for cuts, damage or uneven wear and confirm that all four tyres, including the spare, are in acceptable condition.
Inspect the interiors
Once the exterior inspection is complete, check the cabin. Look for stains, scratches, damaged upholstery, loose fittings or broken switches. Test the power windows, door locks, air conditioning, infotainment system, steering-mounted controls, horn and other electrical features.
Check whether the seat adjustments, seat belts and dashboard displays are functioning properly. If the vehicle comes with a touchscreen, reverse camera or parking sensors, test these features as well.
It is also worth checking whether the car comes with all the accessories promised by the dealership, including floor mats, tool kits, spare wheels and other items mentioned in the booking agreement.
Verify manufacturing date
The manufacturing month and year are important details that buyers should verify before accepting delivery. This information can generally be found on the vehicle identification number (VIN) plate or through the vehicle's documentation.
The VIN is a unique identification number assigned to every vehicle. Buyers should ensure that the VIN on the car matches the details mentioned in the invoice and other documents.
While a vehicle manufactured a few months earlier is not necessarily a problem, buyers should be aware of its manufacturing date and check whether it has been stored properly.
Check odometer reading
A new car may have a few kilometres on its odometer because of factory testing, transportation and movement within the dealership. However, an unusually high reading should be questioned.
Ask the dealer to explain the distance recorded and ensure that it is consistent with the vehicle's movement and preparation before delivery.
Test essential functions
Before accepting the car, start the engine and check whether there are any unusual noises, warning lights or vibrations. Ensure that the instrument cluster displays information correctly and that no unexplained warning indicators remain illuminated.
Test the brakes, steering, lights, indicators, wipers and washers. Check the air conditioning and ensure that the engine reaches normal operating temperature without any apparent issues.
Buyers can also request a short test drive within the dealership premises or an authorised area to check the vehicle's basic performance.
Ensure all documents are in order
Documentation is just as important as the physical condition of the vehicle. Check the sales invoice, insurance policy, registration details, temporary registration documents, warranty booklet and owner's manual.
Ensure that the engine number and chassis number mentioned in the documents match the vehicle. Buyers should also confirm that the insurance coverage is active and that the policy details are correct.
If the car has been financed, verify the loan-related paperwork and ensure that the agreed down payment, loan amount and other charges are accurately reflected.
Understand warranty, service schedule
Before leaving the showroom, ask the dealer to explain the manufacturer's warranty, roadside assistance benefits and service schedule. Find out when the first service is due and whether any additional warranty or maintenance package has been purchased.
Buyers should also clarify what is covered under the warranty and what exclusions apply. Keeping a record of the delivery date, warranty documents and service commitments can help avoid confusion later.
Do not rush delivery process
A new car delivery is an occasion worth enjoying, but buyers should not allow the excitement to replace caution. If any defect, missing accessory or discrepancy is discovered, it should be brought to the dealership's attention immediately and documented in writing.
Photographs and videos taken during the inspection can also serve as useful records if a concern arises later.
Ultimately, a pre-delivery inspection is not about finding faults with every new vehicle. It is about ensuring that the car being handed over matches what was promised, is in acceptable condition and comes with the correct documentation.
A few minutes spent checking the vehicle before leaving the showroom can make the beginning of car ownership considerably more reassuring.
