You signed the PDI checklist without reading it. Now the dealer says that paint scratch, misaligned door, and dead battery are “customer-accepted conditions.”
Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) is your ONLY chance to reject factory defects, shipping damage, and dealer neglect before taking ownership. Once you sign and drive away, those issues become YOUR problem—not covered by warranty, not the dealer’s responsibility. Dealers rush PDI, hide defects with quick fixes, and pressure you to sign. That ₹15 lakh new car might have ₹50,000 in defects you unknowingly accepted.
The trap: Dealer says “everything is checked, just sign here.” You discover paint damage, electrical faults, or missing accessories after delivery—dealer says “you accepted it during PDI.”
What you’ll learn:
- Complete PDI checklist (exterior, interior, mechanical, documentation)
- How to refuse delivery (your rights)
- Common dealer PDI frauds (cosmetic hiding, missing items)
- Warranty activation verification
- Post-delivery recourse (if defects found later)
Section 1: What is PDI and Why It Matters
Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI):
Process where buyer inspects new car before accepting delivery, verifying:
- No manufacturing defects
- No shipping/handling damage
- All accessories included
- All functions operational
- Documentation complete
Why PDI is critical:
1. Defect liability:
- Before PDI sign-off: Dealer responsible for ALL issues
- After PDI sign-off: You accepted car “as-is,” warranty covers only future failures (not existing defects)
2. Warranty activation:
- Warranty starts from delivery date (PDI completion)
- Any defect found after = “developed during your use” (dealer claims)
3. Insurance coverage:
- Insurance starts from registration date
- Pre-existing damage may not be covered
What PDI is NOT:
- Not just “checking if car starts”
- Not trusting dealer’s word
- Not a 5-minute formality
What PDI should be:
- 45-60 minute thorough inspection
- Testing every feature
- Documented checklist with YOUR notes
- Rejection option if defects found
Section 2: Exterior PDI Checklist
Paint and body inspection:
1. Paint finish:
- Check all panels in direct sunlight
- Look for:
- Orange peel (uneven texture)
- Dust particles in paint
- Scratches, swirl marks
- Dents, dings
- Acceptable: Minor orange peel (factory characteristic for some brands)
- Reject: Scratches >50mm, dents, repainted panels
2. Panel gaps:
- Measure: Hood, door, trunk gaps (should be 3-5mm, consistent)
- Reject: Gaps >7mm or uneven (manufacturing defect)
3. Panel alignment:
- Check: Hood flush with fenders, trunk flush with body
- Reject: One side higher (poor assembly)
4. Bumpers:
- Check: Fitment (no gaps), clips all secure
- Reject: Loose, misaligned, cracked
Glass and lights:
1. Windshield:
- Check: No chips, cracks, distortion
- Reject: Any chip/crack (even 1mm)
2. All windows:
- Check: No scratches, chips
- Test: Operate up/down, auto function works
3. Headlights, taillights:
- Check: Lenses clear, no condensation
- Test: All functions (low beam, high beam, DRL, indicators, brake lights)
- Reject: Condensation inside lens (seal failure)
Wheels and tires:
1. Tire condition:
- Check: Manufacturing date (stamped on sidewall: DOT code, last 4 digits = week and year)
- Acceptable: Manufactured within 6 months of delivery
- Reject: Tires >1 year old (rubber degradation)
2. Alloy wheels:
- Check: No scratches, dents, curb rash
- Reject: Any damage (dealer likely test-drove carelessly)
3. Tire pressure:
- Check: All tires inflated to recommended PSI (door jamb sticker)
Section 3: Interior PDI Checklist
Upholstery and trim:
1. Seats:
- Check: No stains, tears, loose stitching
- Test: All adjustments (recline, slide, height)
- Check: Seatbelts retract smoothly, buckles click
2. Dashboard and door panels:
- Check: All trim pieces secure (press gently, no rattles)
- Check: No scratches, scuff marks
Infotainment and electronics:
1. Infotainment system:
- Test: Power on, all features (radio, USB, Bluetooth, navigation if equipped)
- Check: Screen no dead pixels, touch response smooth
2. Climate control:
- Test: AC blows cold, heater blows hot
- Test: All vents operational, blower speeds work
3. Power windows:
- Test: All windows up/down, auto function
- Check: No grinding noise
4. Central locking:
- Test: Lock/unlock all doors with remote
- Test: Interior lock buttons work
5. Lights:
- Test: All interior lights, dome light, vanity mirror lights
6. Gauges and displays:
- Test: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, trip computer all functional
Accessories and features:
1. Spare tire and tools:
- Check: Spare wheel present, correct size
- Check: Jack, lug wrench, toolkit included
2. Owner manual and documents:
- Check: Owner manual, service booklet, warranty card
- Check: All in protective pouch
3. Floor mats:
- Check: All mats included (front, rear)
4. First aid kit and warning triangle:
- Check: Both included (mandatory)
Section 4: Mechanical PDI Checklist
Engine bay:
1. Fluid levels:
- Check: Engine oil (dipstick between min-max)
- Check: Coolant (reservoir at MAX line)
- Check: Brake fluid (reservoir at MAX line)
- Check: Windshield washer fluid
2. Battery:
- Check: Manufacturing date (should be recent)
- Test: Voltage (12.4-12.8V when off, 13.8-14.4V when running)
3. Belts and hoses:
- Check: No fraying, cracks, loose connections
Test drive (10-15 minutes):
1. Engine start:
- Should: Start immediately, idle smoothly
- Reject: Hard start, rough idle, warning lights
2. Acceleration:
- Test: Smooth power delivery, no hesitation
- Listen: No knocking, unusual noises
3. Braking:
- Test: Straight-line braking (no pulling left/right)
- Test: No vibration, noise
4. Steering:
- Test: Smooth, no play, returns to center
5. Transmission:
- Test: All gears engage smoothly (manual)
- Test: Smooth shifts (automatic), no jerking
6. Suspension:
- Test: Drive over speed bump—no excessive bouncing, rattles
Section 5: Documentation PDI Checklist
Critical documents (must be original, not photocopies):
1. Invoice:
- Check: Correct model, variant, color
- Check: Accessories listed match what’s installed
- Check: Price matches agreed amount
2. Registration certificate (temporary):
- Check: Your name spelled correctly
- Check: Address matches your ID
- Within 30 days: Permanent RC delivered
3. Insurance policy:
- Check: Coverage start date = delivery date
- Check: Comprehensive (not just third-party)
- Check: IDV (Insured Declared Value) matches invoice price
- Check: Policy holder name matches yours
4. Warranty card:
- Check: Stamped by dealer
- Check: Warranty start date = delivery date
- Check: VIN matches car
5. Service booklet:
- Check: Blank (no prior service entries)
- Check: First free service coupon included
6. Pollution certificate (PUC):
- Check: Valid for 1 year
7. Keys:
- Check: 2 keys included (some brands give 3)
- Test: Both keys work (unlock, start car)
Section 6: Common Dealer PDI Frauds
Fraud 1: Pre-delivery “test drive” damage
Setup:
- Dealer test-drives car before delivery (rough driving)
- Minor scratches, curb rash on wheels, interior scuffs
- Dealer hides with quick touch-up paint
Detection:
- Inspect paint closely (touch-up different shade or texture)
- Check wheels for curb rash
- Reject if found
Fraud 2: Missing accessories
Setup:
- Invoice lists accessories (₹25,000 worth)
- Dealer “forgets” to install
- After delivery: “You accepted car, pay extra for installation”
Prevention:
- Match invoice line-by-line with actual car
- Missing item = refuse delivery until installed
Fraud 3: Old stock (1+ year old)
Setup:
- Car manufactured >1 year ago, sitting in storage
- Tires degraded, battery weak, rubber seals dried
- Dealer sells as “new”
Detection:
- Check manufacturing date sticker (door jamb or engine bay)
- Check tire DOT code
- Acceptable: <6 months old
- Reject: >1 year old (demand fresh stock or discount)
Fraud 4: Pressuring quick sign-off
Setup:
- “Sir, just sign here, we’ve already checked everything”
- “Don’t you trust us?”
- “Other customers are waiting”
Response:
- “I’m spending ₹15 lakh, I’ll take my time”
- Insist on full inspection (45-60 minutes)
- Don’t sign until satisfied
Section 7: How to Refuse Delivery
Your rights:
You can refuse delivery if:
- Manufacturing defects found
- Damage from shipping/handling
- Missing accessories (listed in invoice)
- Incorrect model/variant/color
Refusal process:
Step 1: Document defects
- Take photos/videos
- Write defects on PDI checklist
- Don’t sign checklist
Step 2: Inform dealer
- “I’m refusing delivery due to [defects]”
- Demand: Replacement car or defect rectification
Step 3: Get written acknowledgment
- Dealer must provide written statement: “Delivery refused due to [defects], replacement will be provided”
Step 4: Follow up
- Set deadline (7-10 days for replacement/repair)
- If dealer refuses: Escalate to manufacturer customer care
Your leverage:
- Payment not yet made: Maximum leverage
- Payment made, car not delivered: Full refund legally entitled
- Car delivered but not driven away: Can still refuse
- Car delivered and driven away: Harder, but warranty covers defects
Section 8: Post-Delivery Defect Discovery
If you find defects after driving away:
Within 7 days:
- Document: Photos, videos of defect
- Inform dealer immediately: Via email (get written record)
- Claim: “Defect was not visible during PDI, requesting rectification under warranty”
Dealer may argue: “You signed PDI, accepted car as-is”
Your response: “Defect was not visible/testable during PDI, manufacturer warranty covers defects”
Warranty should cover:
- Manufacturing defects (even if found after delivery)
- Exceptions: Wear and tear, accident damage, misuse
Legal recourse:
If dealer refuses:
- Consumer court: File complaint under Consumer Protection Act
- Manufacturer escalation: Email to regional head, head office
- Public pressure: Social media, auto forums (dealers hate bad publicity)
Section 9: Real Case – The Scratched Creta
2023 Hyundai Creta SX(O), ₹19,50,000
Delivery day:
Dealer’s PDI:
- “Sir, car is perfect, already checked, please sign”
- Rushed buyer through PDI in 10 minutes
Buyer spotted:
- Rear bumper: 2 scratches (30mm each)
- Passenger door: Small dent (5mm)
Dealer’s response:
- “Oh, those are very minor, we’ll fix them”
- “Sign PDI now, we’ll repair next week”
Buyer’s mistake: Signed PDI, drove away
Next week:
- Dealer: “Sir, you signed PDI accepting these damages, not covered under warranty”
- Repair quote: ₹12,000
Buyer’s escalation:
- Complained to Hyundai customer care
- Showed photos (defects existing before delivery)
- Argued: “Dealer pressured me to sign”
Hyundai’s investigation:
- Reviewed dealer CCTV (defects present before delivery)
- Conclusion: Dealer negligence (damage during pre-delivery handling)
- Resolution: Hyundai forced dealer to repair free
Outcome: Buyer got free repair, but 3 weeks of hassle
Lesson: Should have refused delivery until defects repaired
Conclusion: PDI is Your Power—Use It
PDI is the ONLY time you have full leverage. Once you sign, dealer’s obligation ends.
Your PDI protocol:
Pre-PDI (before going to dealer):
- Download and print PDI checklist (search “CarQ PDI checklist” or use this blog)
- Allocate 60 minutes (don’t rush)
- Bring: Flashlight, tape measure (for panel gaps), phone (photos)
During PDI (at dealer):
- Inspect in daylight (outdoor or well-lit area)
- Test every feature (don’t skip)
- Document defects on checklist AND with photos
- Don’t sign until satisfied
Decision framework:
- Minor defects (small scratch, single dead pixel): Demand repair before delivery
- Major defects (dent, paint damage, mechanical issue): Refuse delivery, demand replacement
- Missing accessories: Refuse delivery until installed
- Dealer pressures: Stand firm, “I’m paying, I decide when to sign”
Post-PDI:
- Keep signed PDI checklist (your record)
- Within 24 hours: Test all features again (home environment)
- If new defects found: Inform dealer immediately (email)
The 15 lakhs you’re paying? You’ve earned the right to 60 minutes of inspection.
Don’t let dealers rush you into a ₹50,000 mistake.
Key Takeaways
✓ PDI sign-off = acceptance of condition (defects become your problem)
✓ Refuse delivery if defects found (dealer must repair or replace)
✓ Check tire manufacturing date (DOT code) (reject if >1 year old)
✓ Match invoice accessories to actual car (missing items common)
✓ Test drive for 10-15 minutes (engine, transmission, brakes, steering)
✓ Document defects with photos before signing (evidence if disputes arise)
✓ Don’t sign if pressured (“other customers waiting” is manipulation)
Checklist References
- pdi_exterior#1-20: Complete exterior inspection (paint, glass, lights, wheels)
- pdi_interior#1-15: Complete interior inspection (upholstery, electronics, accessories)
- pdi_mechanical#1-10: Mechanical checks (fluids, test drive, functions)
- pdi_documentation#1-7: Document verification (invoice, RC, insurance, warranty)
Next Steps
Download complete PDI checklist (408 points) → Printable PDF for dealer PDI
Schedule professional new car PDI → Independent expert verifies before you sign
Sign the PDI checklist last. Inspect first. It’s your ₹15 lakh—demand perfection.