Download Article
Download Article
This article was co-authored by Ed Beery. Ed Beery is an Automotive Specialist and the Owner of InTechgrity Automotive Excellence based in Denver, Colorado. With more than eight years of experience, he specializes in providing maintenance and repair services for both individuals and companies. Ed and the InTechgrity Automotive Excellence Team are approved by the American Automobile Association (AAA) for repairs and are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified.
There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 15 testimonials and 100% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status.
This article has been viewed 186,344 times.
It is important to properly inspect a new car before you drive it out of the showroom. If you are buying a brand new car, it shouldn't have any scratches, defects, or more than 50-100km on the odometer. However, knowing what else look for can be a little daunting for used cars. Whether your new car is brand new or previously used, this article will highlight the important things to check in your inspection.
Things You Should Know
- Exterior: In daylight, look for small scratches in the paint, windows, and windshield, plus dents in the metal or gaps between panels and doors.
- Interior: Look for clean upholstery, mileage below 40 km (25 miles), and functional sound and heating/cooling systems.
- Performance: Do a test drive and note any strange sounds or vibrations. Ensure the ignition and gears work smoothly and test the horn and headlights.
Steps
Community Q&A
-
QuestionHow can you check if the car you bought is really brand new?
Community AnswerAll new vehicles have an MSO or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin. Ask to see it before taking delivery of your new vehicle. You can also check the Car Fax report generally. -
QuestionHow do I test the suspension during a test drive?
Community AnswerTest it before you drive it. Rebound test: push hard down on the fender multiple times; if it is easy it is in need of attention. Sway test: push side to side; again, if it is easy it needs attention. -
QuestionHow do I check the underside of the vehicle to make sure it is not rusted?
Community AnswerYou can just roll under the car or use a camera on a stick.
Tips
-
Be courteous to staff. After all, you may be returning there for all your service needs.Thanks
-
Bring along a friend or colleague. A third person with little emotional attachment to your new car will provide a non-biased opinion during inspection.Thanks
-
Call couple of days in advance and fix a delivery date and time so that there is minimum hurry.Thanks
Warnings
- Remember! It may be a highly emotional moment for you but is routine for staff.Thanks
- Vehicle Delivery during late evenings and night is an absolute NO!Thanks
Things You'll Need
- Required documentation
- Delivery Order of Financier if required
- Pen
- Still Camera / Camcorder
- Pre recorded Audio Cassette / CD / DVD / USB Stick
- Gift for salesperson (Optional)
References
- ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/12/picking-up-the-car/index.htm
- ↑ https://carfromjapan.com/article/car-maintenance/how-to-test-a-car-battery/
- ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/12/picking-up-the-car/index.htm
- ↑ https://www.consumerreports.org/headlights/how-consumer-reports-tests-car-headlights/
- ↑ https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/r/advice/car-maintenance/causes-of-car-noises-and-vibration
- ↑ https://www.jthughes.co.uk/Blog/View/What-to-check-before-you-drive-your-new-car-from-the-showroom/2963
- ↑ https://www.dmv.org/travel/driving-etiquette-safety-tips.php
- ↑ https://www.cars.com/auto-repair/diy/check-tire-pressure/
About This Article
Reader Success Stories
-
"Excellent information. Every single person who takes delivery of a new car should take note! I am taking delivery of my 4th new car, and it is the first time I am really taking charge of my vehicle's delivery. Great info, guys!"..." more
Did this article help you?
