Pre-delivery Inspection: Things You Should Know

Imagine getting a car but after that,  you find some issues with it. This is where the role of pre-delivery inspection comes in. It is important to know about this before getting a new car so that it doesn’t have any defects.

PDI is a process that a dealer or a manufacturer follows to ensure that the car is delivered to its customer without any issues. In this blog, you will learn about what PDI is, the checklists, and the documents required for it.

PDI - Meaning and why it should be done

The PDI full form is a pre-delivery inspection in which the car is properly checked for any issues before it is delivered to the buyer. The manufacturer has to ensure that the car meets every quality standard for the issues to be identified and resolved quickly.

The PDI should be done so that the chances of defects are minimized and the customer is happy and satisfied upon its delivery. The PDI ensures that you did not spend money on a product that has issues. It also helps ensure that the car meets the customer expectations which can lead to customer satisfaction.

Car Pre-delivery inspection checklist

Following are the things to check before taking delivery of a new car:

1) Interior inspection

The interior inspection of the car is important. You should check if there are any stains on the seats and upholstery. Check if the seat adjustments are running smoothly. Examine that the heating ventilation and air conditioning are functioning well.

Test the dashboard lights and indicators. Check for any stains, tears, or signs of wear on floor mats and carpets. Inspect other accessories like a sunroof and navigation system.

2) Exterior inspection

Exterior inspection makes you ensure that all the exteriors of the car are working properly and have no defects. For exterior inspection, you should check car paint for any cracks or imperfections and whether there is any inconsistency in paint texture or colour.

Test the functioning of the lights such as headlights, taillights, brake lights, and hazard lights. Make sure that the lens of the car is not fogged or cracked. Look for any scratches or cracks on the side and rear windows.

Examine that the trim pieces are attached securely and you should also check the engine bay for any excessive dust or leaks.

3) Tires and wheel

To check if the tires and wheels of the cars have no issues then you should do a tread depth gauge for checking the tire tread depth. You should look for uneven wear patterns.

Ensure that the tire pressure matches its specifications. Check if the wheels are damaged or have any cracks or bends.

4) Body panel

Check if the body panels have any dents or scratches. Look if they need any repair work. Thoroughly check that the panels are aligned properly with even gaps.

5) Infotainment

Test the infotainment system such as AUX and CD player. Thoroughly inspect the audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and speakers of the car.

6) Mechanical Inspection

Mechanical inspection makes you feel relieved that the vehicle you are choosing is in good condition. For this, you should check for any engine leaks like oil or any other fluids. You should check the transmission fluid level along with its condition.

You should look for suspension and observe rebound by pressing down each corner of the car. Inspect any looseness in the steering. Check for the firmness and responsiveness of the brake pedal.

Examine the exhaust system and exhaust pipe for any damage or leaks and smoke or smell respectively. Check for any leaks under the car by examining the engine oil.

7) Functional Inspection

Functional inspection of the car includes electrical systems, safety features, and entertainment systems. You should test electrical components such as power windows, door locks, and mirrors. Check if the windshield wipers and washer jets are working properly.

Verify that the horn, seatbelts, and pre-tensioners are working well. Check for the working of entertainment systems and any additional features such as DVD player. Test the airbags.

8) Odometer

You should check if the odometer is aligning with the vehicle’s driving mileage. Check if the odometer display is working properly and note down the odometer reading.

9) Test drive

There are things that you should keep in mind if you are taking a test drive of your car.

• You should check the car's performance.
  
• Test how the car’s acceleration, braking, and steering are responding.
  
• Inspect for any noise, vibrations, and warning lights.

Other aspects of PDI

Some aspects of PDI are less talked about but are equally important.

1) Environmental Conditions

If we check the performance of the car under various environmental conditions like extreme temperature, humidity, and altitude then more awareness can be provided about the car’s strength and durability.v

It also educates customers regarding the environmental impact of vehicle ownership like fuel efficiency and emissions.

2) Durability

You can have long-term durability of the PDI car if the materials, construction methods, and weak points are thoroughly examined.

3) User Experience

Besides the car functionality, it is important to evaluate user experience which can enhance customer satisfaction.

4) Materials Used

You should know the materials used for the PDI car so that you can know about any potential risks related to the quality.

5) Post-Delivery Support

Post-delivery support should be provided regarding the vehicle features, warranties, and maintenance tips so that the customer's ownership experience is maximized.

6) Possible Customization

Offering customization in vehicle settings can enhance the driving experience as the needs of the customer are fulfilled.

7) Cosmetic Detailing Quality

Providing detailed quality in terms of paint finish, cleanliness of interiors, and exterior polish can enhance the quality of the car.

Documents required for pre-delivery inspection

Documents that you should keep with you during the pre-delivery inspection are:

1) Invoice

You should have an invoice as it has the car’s chassis, engine number, and VIN so that you can check if it physically matches your PDI checklist.

2) VIN Verification

VIN (Vehicle identification number) verification allows you to check if you are inspecting the correct vehicle and if it matches the documentation.

3) RTO Documents

RTO documents also include the car engine number so you can use it to double-check if it is the same as in the invoice.

4) Checklist or Inspection Form

It serves as a record that the inspection process is conducted in the same way as mentioned in the checklist or inspection form.

5) Dealer PDI Checklist

You can ask your sales advisor to share the dealer PDI checklist with you because the dealers get the PDI checklist from the showrooms which makes sure that you get the car with no issues. It will also help you to conduct the PDI yourself.

Conclusion

As people buy their car with hard-earned money, they would also want that it does not have any issues. Pre-delivery inspection ensures that the car delivered to you has no defects and provides maximum satisfaction.

Now you know the things to check while taking delivery of a new car as it will make the process easier for you. You should take notice of everything and check the car thoroughly for any issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 What is the process of PDI?

Ans The PDI process involves a comprehensive inspection of various components of the vehicle.

Q2 When should PDI be done?

Ans The pre-delivery inspection should be done before the delivery of the new car.

Q3 Who performs PDI?

Ans A dealership or manufacturer performs the PDI.