Purchasing a car is similar to organising a family wedding in that everyone is involved, budgets are stretched to the limit, and savings that have been accumulated over years suddenly disappear more quickly than your party favour. Occasionally, you may even persuade yourself that making a small additional financial investment is merely an investment in happiness on wheels. There aren’t many brand-new cars available these days, so you have to buy one off the lot. The dealer provides you with an estimated delivery date after you decide on a car and pay the booking fee. The catch is that the salesperson will insist that you pay the full amount as the delivery date approaches. This is where every car buyer has the right to ask for a pre-delivery inspection (PDI) before you sign on the dotted line. We tell you what PDI means and what the advantage is.
What is a pre-delivery inspection (PDI)?
A Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) is a comprehensive check performed on a new vehicle by the dealership before handing it over to the customer. This crucial process ensures the car is in perfect condition, meeting all safety, mechanical, electrical, and aesthetic standards. The inspection covers the engine, brakes, fluid levels, tyres, lights, interior features, and exterior paintwork to detect any defects or damages that may have occurred during manufacturing or transit. Additionally, the car undergoes a brief test drive to verify its functionality and safety. Minor issues are fixed immediately, while major problems are addressed before delivery. Customers are often encouraged to be present during the PDI to verify the vehicle’s condition firsthand. Completing this inspection guarantees that the vehicle is ready for safe and trouble-free driving, providing peace of mind and protecting the buyer’s investment. A PDI certificate is usually provided as proof that the inspection has been successfully carried out. This process is a standard practice in all dealerships to ensure customer satisfaction and uphold quality standards.
Why dealers won’t tell you about PDI?
Many buyers don’t realise that a PDI is their last chance to spot hidden issues before taking delivery of a new car. While it’s meant to ensure everything is flawless, some dealerships use the process to conceal defects or quietly swap parts. For instance, cars may be shown with premium tyres or alloys during PDI, only to be delivered with cheaper ones. Minor damage like scratches, repainted panels, or even flood signs can be masked with quick cosmetic fixes, often going unnoticed without tools. Odometer tampering is another concern, especially if the car’s been shuffled between showrooms.
Avoid advance payment traps: Negotiate like a pro
To safeguard your finances, avoid paying the full amount upfront until the PDI meets your standards. Agree to pay only fixed costs upfront, like the ex-showroom price, TCS (Tax Collected at Source), RTO fees, and insurance. Hold back the remaining payment until the PDI confirms the car’s condition. Request a written agreement promising a full refund or repairs if issues are found during the PDI. Don’t sign registration or insurance documents until you’re completely happy with the vehicle.
Dealer demanding full pay? Ditch them
If a dealer insists on full payment before conducting the PDI, take a moment to carefully consider your options. It won’t be a bad idea if you decide to walk away and look for another dealer who is more flexible and lets you inspect the vehicle first, ensuring a better buying experience. Alternatively, if the dealer’s stance feels unreasonable or unfair, you can escalate the matter by contacting the car manufacturer’s support team or a consumer rights agency for assistance. By firmly asserting your need to verify the car’s condition beforehand, you protect yourself from the potential risks of paying upfront for a vehicle that might not meet your standards.
