When the big day arrives to pick up your brand new car, you may be tempted to simply jump in and drive off into the sunset. However, buying a car represents a major financial investment, and rushing things at this stage could cause you a lot of grief and hassle further down the line. Carrying out a few simple checks will help to ensure that your perfect new car really is all that it should be.
- Arrive at the garage on time and inspect the car thoroughly before signing any paperwork or handing over any money.
- Avoid picking the car up when it is dark or raining as you won't be able to spot bodywork problems. If you don't have a choice, ask for it to be recorded on the sales invoice that you have not been able to examine the vehicle thoroughly, due to adverse lighting or weather conditions.
- Walk around the car and check all corners, body panels and windows.
- Are there any dents in the panels?
- Is the paint a uniform colour all the way around?
- Is the paintwork scratch and chip-free?
- Is the glass damaged in any way?
- Is there any evidence of any touching in or respraying?
- Check the interior of the car carefully.
- Does everything work? Make sure that you press all the buttons, move all the seats and try everything out, so that you know that everything works as it should.
- Is the interior marked in any way?
- Check the car's specifications and paperwork.
- Is it exactly what you ordered in terms of trim level, engine and optional extras?
- Has the car been taxed?
- Are you the first registered keeper on the registration document?
- Has the pre-delivery inspection (PDI) been carried out, and has the service book been stamped to reflect this?
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