Wednesday, December 03, 2025
By CarKhabri Team
Things to Check Before Delivery Of Your New Car
The excitement of taking delivery of a brand-new car cannot be expressed in words, even if it is your second car. However, amidst this excitement, it’s important not to ignore the essential checks that ensure your vehicle is delivered in perfect condition. Many buyers sign documents quickly, assuming everything is fine, only to notice the issues which the dealer might not take responsibility for. To avoid such situations, always follow a new car delivery checklist and, if possible, bring along a trusted mechanic for a detailed pre-delivery inspection (PDI).
Here’s a complete checklist to follow when taking delivery of your new car:
1. Exterior Inspection: During transportation from the manufacturing plant to the dealership, cars might sometimes get minor damage, which isn't visible at first glance. To ensure there aren't any damages, do a slow walk-around and carefully examine:
- Scratches or dents on bumpers, doors, and side panels
- Any paint mismatches or repaint patches
- Gaps or misalignment in body panels
- Condition of headlamps and tail lamps
If you find any of these issues, bring this immediately to the attention of the dealership and refuse to take its delivery.
2. Interior Check: After the exterior, move inside the cabin and check:
- Dashboard, seats, upholstery, and glovebox for stains or damage
- Condition under the floor mats to ensure no moisture
- Cracks or scratches on windows, mirrors, and the instrument cluster
- Functioning door locks, seat adjustments, and centre console
A clean, damage-free interior is a must for a new-car experience.
3. Engine and Fluids: Open the bonnet and verify that the engine bay is in perfect condition. Make sure:
- Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid are at proper levels.
- There are no oil leaks or signs of fluid drips.
- The engine runs smoothly at idle, with no unusual vibration or noise.
- The exhaust does not emit black smoke.
A healthy engine is the heart of your new vehicle.
4. Air-Conditioning: Before accepting delivery:
- Turn on the AC and check if the cabin cools quickly.
- Ensure airflow is smooth with no odd smell.
- Inspect for possible gas leakage if the car was parked for a long time in the stockyard.
A properly functioning AC is essential—especially in Indian weather conditions.
5. Electricals and Features: Since rodents or long parking periods can damage wiring, check:
- Headlights, brake lights, indicators, and reverse lights
- Cabin light, infotainment system, speakers
- Wipers, horn, power windows, parking sensors and mirrors
- Keyless entry and central locking
Everything should work flawlessly in a new car.
6. Tyres and Tools: Inspect each tyre for:
- Adequate tread and no flat spots
- Correct tyre pressure
- Perfect condition of the spare wheel
- Presence of jack, toolkit, and warning triangle
Tyres don’t lie—flat spots can occur if the car was parked for months.
7. Odometer and Fuel Level: A new car should typically not show more than 100–150 km on the odometer. If it does:
- Ask the dealer for a valid explanation.
- Ensure the dealer has added at least 5 litres of complimentary fuel.
Check if the fuel is sufficient to reach the nearest petrol pump.
8. Take a Test Drive: Before signing the papers, test the car along with the dealer representative. Ensure:
- Steering is smooth and aligned properly.
- Gearshifts are precise
- Brakes respond well
- Suspension absorbs bumps comfortably.
- NVH levels (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) are low
This quick drive helps detect any abnormalities before finalising the delivery.
9. Documentation: Finally, verify all paperwork, including:
- Form 22 (certificate from manufacturer with engine & chassis details)
- VIN, engine number, and chassis number match the vehicle
- Invoice, insurance papers, warranty booklets, and accessories list
- Your name, address, and personal details are printed correctly
- Accurate documentation protects your ownership rights.
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