What is Pre Delivery Inspection?

The PDI full form is Pre-Delivery Inspection. It refers to inspecting a new car before it is registered and delivered to the customer. The vehicle is thoroughly checked to see if everything is fine with the car's exterior, interior, electrical and mechanical components, fluids levels, etc.

PDI inspection also involves a test drive to ensure the car is working properly. While the dealership is responsible for inspecting the car, carrying out the inspection yourself before accepting delivery is also essential. Now that you know the PDI meaning, here is how to complete the process.

While inspecting your new car for any flaws, it is crucial to have a car PDI checklist. This ensures you do n0t miss something important. Let us see what car PDI check must include:

Physical inspection

• Inspect the paint for any ripples in the finish. Ripples usually indicate the car has been repainted due to any damage.

• Ensure the shade of the paint colour is the same all over the vehicle. Also, look for any dents, scratches or rust on the car.

• Check the manufacturing year of the car’s tyres and ensure their size and brand are the same that comes with the model. Inspect the tyre tread for proper inflation.

• Inspect the brake pads for any signs of damage or wear and tear and ensure they are working properly.

• Ensure the engine bay does not have dust or leaks and the battery is new. Also, check that the engine and the chassis numbers are similar to those on the registration certificate or invoice.

• Physically inspect the car’s lights, wipers and windshields. Check for any scratches or damages on the headlights, indicators, tail lights and auxiliary lamps. The same goes for the wipers and the windshield. Look for any chips, ripples or damages on the windshield glass or the wipers.

• Make sure the gaps between all the panels are even. Uneven panel gaps may be due to wrong fitting or even structural damage to the chassis.

• Open and close the doors to check if they are smoothly working.

• Open and close the boot lid and the bonnet to check if they are smoothly working.

Interior inspection

• Check for the proper functioning of the steering-mounted controls if any. Also, if there are rake and reach adjustments, ensure they both work smoothly without using extra force. It is also essential to check the steering and wheels are aligned properly.

• Search for damage on door panels, seats and headliners. Inform the dealer if you see any stains, poor stitches or tears on the seats/upholstery. Also, check if the seat adjustment controls and seat belts are efficiently working.

• Inspect the infotainment system’s inputs like Bluetooth, AUX and CD player, as well as all electrical components such as indicators, wipers, cabin lights, headlights and power windows. Play music to check the speakers are working properly.

• Check the odometer reading. Make sure it is under 20-30 km.

• Switch on the AC and check if it is cooling the cabin efficiently. Also, inspect the AC vents for dust or dirt.

• If the car has a sunroof, ensure it opens and closes smoothly.

Fluid inspection

• Use a dipstick to gauge the engine oil level and ensure it is clean. Also, look for the level of engine oil on the digital gauge if it is present on the dashboard.

• Inspect the coolant reservoir tank to see if the levels are as per the manufacturer's recommendation.

• Check the levels of power steering, brake and windscreen washing fluids.

Driving inspection

• Once done with inspecting the car’s exteriors, interiors, electrical and mechanical components and fluids, ensure you take a short drive to test the car’s driving condition. Here is a quick guide to follow:

• Check if the engine sound is fine and there is no unusual noise from the engine bay.

• If it is a manual car, check the clutch is not hard or slips and the gear shifts work smoothly.

• If it is an automatic car, check that the gearbox does not make any mechanical noise and the gear shifts do not jerk.

• Check the braking and acceleration. Make sure the car does not jerk while accelerating or produce unusual noise when you apply brakes.

• It is also crucial to assess if the car is moving in a straight line when you leave the steering wheel.

Imagine a scenario where you accept the delivery of a new car and later find it is defective. This can be frustrating. The only choice you have is to get the repairs done under warranty.

This is where pre-delivery inspection comes into the picture. It helps ensure that the car you have put your hard-earned money into is free from flaws. A new car may get damaged during handling at the dealership or transit. PDI allows you to notify the dealership about any minor or significant defects or issues so that they can be rectified before delivery.

Furthermore, the PDI process is critical in ensuring the safety of a newly purchased vehicle. It inspects the car for safety-related issues and protects you from accidents or injuries. From the dealer’s perspective, the PDI process helps ensure the vehicle meets customer expectations, thus contributing to customer satisfaction.

• Pre-delivery inspection is one of the most essential aspects of car purchase. So, do not hasten through the process to get the delivery quickly.

• Take sufficient time to check every aspect and ensure everything is in good condition and working properly.

• Always carry out a pre-delivery inspection in the daylight to unveil any kind of defects or damage.

• Lastly, do not hesitate to seek help from the dealer to locate things or explanations.

Ensuring your brand-new vehicle is devoid of any defects is vital so you do not have to regret it later. A pre-delivery inspection helps you do that. Do not rush and take ample time to inspect your new car for any minor or major defects. If there is any issue, bring it to the dealer’s notice immediately so that it can be corrected.

Another important tool to ensure the long-term safety of your car is a car insurance policy. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has made third-party insurance coverage mandatory for all vehicles to ply on Indian roads. While third-party insurance offers coverage against third-party liabilities arising due to accidents involving your car, it does not cover your damage or loss.

However, protecting your brand-new car against various risks is also essential. This is where comprehensive car insurance comes in. It offers broad coverage to your prized possession against natural calamities, accidents, fire, theft, vandalism, etc.

At TATA AIG, you can buy third-party car insurance, own damage insurance and comprehensive insurance for your brand-new car at budget-friendly prices. You can also choose from numerous add-on covers to enhance your car’s safety. So, pick the best car insurance policy from TATA AIG today and enjoy a smooth and quick buying and claim settlement process!

Who performs pre-delivery inspection?

The dealership performs pre-delivery inspection before delivery. The PDI process ensures that your hard-earned money is put into the right product. Any issues identified during the PDI process come to the dealer’s knowledge and are rectified immediately.

How much time does it take to conduct a PDI?

The time involved in PDI depends on how you inspect the vehicle. A thorough PDI check with a test drive can take 1-2 hours.

Why is pre-delivery inspection important?

Pre-delivery inspection is essential as it helps unveil any defects in a vehicle before it is delivered to the customer. As a customer, you are saved from losses you may incur due to accepting a defective vehicle.

Is pre-delivery inspection mandatory for car dealers in India?

No, pre-delivery inspection is not mandatory in India. However, it is highly recommended for all new cars.

When is the pre-delivery inspection done?

The pre-delivery inspection is done before the car is delivered by the dealer to the customer to check for any manufacturing defects.

Can I get a pre-delivery inspection done for a used car?

Yes, you can get a pre-delivery inspection done for a used car to assess the car’s condition and identify any issues before you buy it.