Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) for Cars: New Car Delivery Checklist You Must Know

Planning to take delivery of your new car soon? In this article, we will guide you through all the necessary items to check before accepting the vehicle, including the tyre manufacturing date, odometer reading, electronics, documents, and secret checks that will save you money. Whether you are purchasing in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or anywhere else in India, this guide guarantees your new vehicle is just what you paid for.

What is Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) in Cars?

The Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) is an examination conducted by the dealership before delivering a new vehicle to the buyer. It encompasses different aspects of the vehicle, such as the bodywork, interior elements, electricals, engine parts, and paperwork.

In general, the manufacturer sends a PDI checklist to the dealership, and technicians apply this list to ensure that the vehicle complies with all the quality and safety requirements before delivery.

Who Should Carry Out PDI?

It is the job of the dealership, not the customer, to do the Pre-Delivery Inspection. But it's his/her right to re-check all at the delivery time. You don't have to be an automobile expert for that. A basic walkthrough with a checklist will suffice to identify visible or functional problems.

Checklist Of Things to Check Before Accepting a New Car Pre-Delivery Inspection

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you inspect your new car like a pro:

1. Odometer Reading

The first thing to check is the odometer. A new car should not show more than 100 kilometers on the meter. Anything above that should raise a red flag.

If the reading crosses 100 km, the dealer must give you a valid explanation, such as intercity transfer, demo use, or registration process. If you’re not satisfied, you can ask for a replacement vehicle.

2. Tyre Manufacturing Date

New car tyres should be recently manufactured. To check the age of the tyre, look for a 4-digit number on the tyre sidewall. For example: 2324.

• The first two digits indicate the week (e.g., 23rd week)

• The last two digits show the year (e.g., 2024)

If the tyre is more than one year old, you can request the dealer to replace it with a fresh one. Old tyres on a new car are not acceptable.

3. Vehicle Manufacturing Date

You can find the car’s manufacturing date on a metal plate near the driver's side or passenger door. It’s usually printed along with the VIN and other details.

If the car was manufactured over 12 months ago, you can negotiate a discount. Older stock often comes with cash discounts or accessories.

4. Exterior & Bodywork

Carefully examine the paint, bumpers, doors, roof, and mirrors. Look for any:

• Scratches or swirl marks

• Dents or uneven gaps

• Signs of repainting

Make sure all panels are aligned properly and the number plates are fixed securely.

5. Seats, Upholstery & Airbags

Inspect all seats, covers, and headrests. Ensure there are no stains or cuts. Since most new cars come with airbags, make sure seat covers are properly installed and do not interfere with airbag zones (especially on front seats).

Ask if the covers are dealer-installed or part of the package.

6. Lights and Electricals

Start the car and test every electrical feature:

• Headlights, fog lamps, and indicators

• Brake and reverse lights

• Cabin lights and reading lamps

• Infotainment screen and steering controls

• Power windows and ORVMs

If anything flickers, lags, or doesn’t respond, report it immediately.

7. Under the Hood

Open the bonnet and check the engine bay. It should be clean and free of dust, oil marks, or leaks. All wires and hoses should be in place. Check:

• Engine oil level

• Brake fluid

• Coolant

• Battery charge

If the car struggles to start or sounds off, don’t accept it.

8. Spare Wheel and Toolkit

Make sure the spare tyre is present and unused. Also check for:

• Jack and tools

• First aid kit

• Triangle reflector

Some items, like a tyre inflator or safety kits, are included depending on the variant.

Documents to Verify Before Signing - New Car Pre-Delivery Inspection

Once you're happy with the vehicle, don’t forget the paperwork. Double-check these:

• Original invoice with correct variant and pricing

• Insurance papers (with your name and vehicle details)

• Temporary or permanent registration certificate

• Road tax and RTO documents

• Owner’s manual, service booklet, and warranty card

• Pollution certificate (if applicable)

• Fastag activation slip

Ask for the PDI certificate from the dealer too. It proves that the car passed their internal checks.

Final Tips Before Taking Delivery

• Inspect the car in daylight to clearly spot surface defects

• Don’t rush. Take your time, even if the dealership is busy

• Bring a friend or family member to help double-check

• Take pictures before signing any documents

• If you're not satisfied, it’s okay to delay delivery or ask for another vehicle

Example: How a Simple Tyre Check Could Save ₹30,000

Rajat from Pune was ready to take delivery of his new hatchback. But while inspecting the tyres, he noticed the code 0623 - meaning the tyres were from the 6th week of 2023, while the current date was August 2024.

That meant the tyres were already over 1.5 years old, and still being sold as part of a brand-new car.

Rajat raised the issue with the dealership. After a short discussion, the team agreed to replace all five tyres for free. Had he missed it, replacing them later would have cost him over ₹30,000.

This small check saved him money and gave him peace of mind, exactly why new car inspections before delivery are non-negotiable.

Your New Car, Your Right to Inspect

A new car inspection before delivery isn’t about being difficult - it’s about being smart. You’re investing lakhs of rupees. You deserve a car that’s 100% fresh, damage-free, and in perfect condition.

Check the odometer, tyres, manufacturing date, and every feature before signing. If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. You have every right to demand quality and fairness.