PDI Tips & Tricks : Most useful PDI Checklist for Your New Car

Summary

In this video, the presenter walks viewers through the essential steps of performing a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) for a new car. Emphasizing the importance of ensuring the vehicle is free from defects, the guide covers key checks, including the manufacturing details, tire conditions, boot contents, interior functionality, electronics, lights, and engine inspection. The presenter shares personal insights from their own experience, rejecting a car due to issues like worn-out tires and high mileage. The video offers valuable advice for new car buyers, along with a downloadable checklist to help ensure their car is in top condition before registration.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always request a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) before the car is registered in your name to spot any potential issues.
• 😀 The PDI is crucial even for brand new cars, as defects can occur during manufacturing, transportation, or at the dealership.
• 😀 Ensure the car's manufacturing date and tire manufacturing dates align. Tires should be made before the car's manufacturing date.
• 😀 Check the car’s mileage during the PDI — it should ideally be under 50 km. Anything over that requires an explanation from the dealership.
• 😀 Inspect all exterior and interior aspects for any scratches, dents, or imperfections, including the car’s body and inside the cabin.
• 😀 Test every button and feature inside the car (AC, music system, mirrors, power windows) to confirm they work properly.
• 😀 Verify that the rearview camera, sensors, and all lighting systems (headlights, turn signals, brake lights) are functional.
• 😀 Check for any oil or fluid leaks when inspecting the engine, and make sure the battery terminals are clean and secure.
• 😀 Always ensure the car’s instrument cluster displays a reasonable mileage. Rejected cars should have a mileage of less than 50 km.
• 😀 If you find discrepancies, like mismatched tires, excessive mileage, or hidden defects, don't hesitate to reject the car and ask for a new one.

Q & A

What is a Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)?

A Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) is a thorough check of a new car before it is registered in the buyer's name. This inspection helps identify potential manufacturing defects, damage during transportation, or issues that may arise at the dealership.

Why is it important to request a PDI before the car is registered?

Requesting a PDI before registration allows the buyer to identify any issues with the car and address them before it becomes their responsibility. It’s an opportunity to ensure the car is in perfect condition before finalizing the purchase.

How can you verify the manufacturing date of the car?

The manufacturing date can be found on a sticker inside the car that lists the vehicle identification number (VIN), engine details, and manufacturing date. The date should be converted to the corresponding manufacturing week of the year for better clarity.

What should you check regarding the tires during a PDI?

During the PDI, you should verify that the tires' manufacturing dates align with the vehicle’s manufacturing date. Ideally, the tires should be produced 2 to 3 weeks before the car’s manufacturing date. Also, ensure that the spare tire is in good condition.

What is the significance of checking the odometer during a PDI?

The odometer reading indicates the number of kilometers the car has been driven. Ideally, it should be under 50 km. If the reading is higher, ask the dealership for an explanation, as higher mileage could indicate unauthorized use or testing.

What are the key interior features to check during a PDI?

You should check all the buttons on the dashboard, the AC, the music system, power windows, and electronic features like the mirrors and sunroof. Ensure that all lights, including vanity and cabin lights, are working. Test the touchscreen and infotainment system as well.

Why should you check for fluid or oil leaks under the bonnet?

Checking for fluid or oil leaks is crucial as any leakage can indicate problems with the engine or other vital components. Leaks may lead to more significant issues over time if left unchecked.

What should you do if you find scratches or imperfections on the car during the PDI?

If you find scratches or imperfections, document them and discuss them with the showroom executive. Depending on the severity of the damage, you can ask for a replacement car or request that the issue be fixed before finalizing the purchase.

What are some common issues that may arise during a PDI?

Common issues during a PDI include scratches on the car body, incorrect tire manufacturing dates, excessive mileage on the odometer, and malfunctioning electronic features like the touchscreen, sensors, or power windows.

What should you do if you are not satisfied with the condition of the car during the PDI?

If you're not satisfied with the car's condition, you can reject it and ask for a new vehicle. It’s essential that you feel confident in the car’s quality, so don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or request a replacement if necessary.