Scenario: It's delivery day. The car is wrapped in a red ribbon. The sales team is clapping. They hand you a box of chocolates and a stack of papers to sign.
STOP. Do not sign anything yet. Tell the salesperson: "I need 30 minutes to inspect the car in daylight."
Phase 1: Exterior & Tyres
The Paint Reflection Test
Park the car in direct sunlight. Look at the reflection on the doors. If the reflection is wavy ("Orange Peel") or the shade looks slightly different from the fender, the panel has been repainted.
Tyre Manufacturing Date
Find the 4-digit code on the tyre wall (e.g., "4525"). It means the 45th week of 2025. If the tyres are more than 6 months older than the car's manufacturing date, ask for a replacement.
Scratch Marks on Alloys
Stockyard drivers often curb the wheels. Run your hand along the rim edge. It should be smooth.
Phase 2: Interior & Odometer
Odometer Reading
A new car should have less than 50-70 km on the odometer. If it shows 150 km+, it was likely driven from a distant stockyard or used as a demo car. Demand a written explanation.
Plastic Covers & Stains
Check the roof liner (ceiling) for dirty finger marks. Mechanics often touch this area during PDI. Also, lift the floor mats to check for moisture (signs of window leaks).
Phase 3: Electricals & Engine
The AC Stress Test
Turn the AC to the lowest temperature and highest fan speed. It should chill the cabin within 2 minutes. Listen for any clicking sounds from the dashboard (actuator issues).
All Lights & Horn
Test every single light: High beam, low beam, fog lights, indicators, brake lights, and cabin lights. Honk the horn—it should be loud and dual-tone (if equipped).
Engine Bay: Rat Check
Open the hood. Look for rat footprints (muddy marks) on the engine cover or chewed wires. This is extremely common in stockyards.
Fluid Levels
Check the Coolant (Pink/Green) and Brake Fluid levels. They should be at the "MAX" line. Low levels indicate a leak or factory negligence.
Phase 4: Documentation (The Boring Part)
VIN Number Match
The Chassis Number (VIN) on the car's windshield/door frame MUST match the Invoice, Insurance Policy, and Registration Certificate (RC). One digit wrong creates a nightmare later.
Form 22 (Roadworthiness)
Ensure you receive the original Form 22 certificate from the manufacturer. It certifies that your specific car meets emission and safety norms.
Duplicate Keys
Test both the primary and spare key fobs. Lock and unlock the car with both. Ensure the physical metal key inside the fob also works on the door.
Want the full 20-Point Checklist?
Download our print-ready PDF. Take it to the showroom and tick off items as you go.
Download PDF Checklist