PDI INSPECTION GUIDE
PDI Checklist India: Complete New & Used Car Inspection Guide
Pre-Delivery Inspection, commonly called PDI, is an important step before taking delivery of a new car and can also be valuable when evaluating a used vehicle. A structured inspection helps buyers examine the vehicle carefully before making an important financial decision.
A car may look perfect during a quick showroom visit, but scratches, dents, paint imperfections, transportation damage, electrical problems, tyre issues or other defects may not always be immediately visible.
This PDI checklist provides a practical overview of the major areas buyers should inspect before accepting delivery of a new car or purchasing a used vehicle.
What Is Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)?
Pre-Delivery Inspection is a systematic examination of a vehicle before the buyer accepts delivery. The purpose is to identify observable issues and verify important vehicle components and information before completing the delivery process.
A professional inspection can provide an independent assessment of the vehicle and may include physical inspection, functional checks and diagnostic checks where appropriate.
PDI for New Cars vs Used Car Inspection
The inspection priorities can differ depending on whether you are buying a new or used vehicle.
New Car PDI
- Paint and transportation damage
- Panel alignment
- Manufacturing information
- Tyres and battery
- Electrical and infotainment systems
- Diagnostic information
- Vehicle documents
Used Car Inspection
- Previous accident or repair signs
- Paint and body condition
- Engine and mechanical condition
- Tyres and battery
- Electrical systems
- Diagnostic information
- Available vehicle and service history
Complete PDI Checklist for New & Used Cars
Use the following checklist as a starting point when inspecting a vehicle. A professional inspection can examine these areas in greater detail using appropriate tools and inspection procedures.
1. Paint and Exterior Body Inspection
- Check overall paint consistency
- Look for scratches and dents
- Check body panel alignment
- Check panel gaps
- Look for signs of repainting
- Inspect bumpers and exterior trims
- Check mirrors and door handles
- Inspect headlights and tail lights
- Check windscreen and other glass
2. VIN and Manufacturing Information
- Verify VIN
- Check manufacturing month and year
- Compare vehicle identification information
- Check available vehicle documentation
- Verify registration-related information where applicable
3. Engine and Mechanical Inspection
- Inspect the engine bay
- Check for visible fluid leaks
- Check fluid levels
- Observe engine starting behaviour
- Listen for unusual noises
- Inspect accessible mechanical components
4. OBD and Diagnostic Inspection
- Scan for available diagnostic fault codes
- Check dashboard warning indicators
- Review relevant electronic system information
- Check applicable ECU-related information
Diagnostic scanning is one part of a complete inspection and should be combined with physical and functional checks.
5. Tyre and Wheel Inspection
- Check tyre condition
- Check tyre manufacturing information
- Check tyre pressure
- Inspect wheels and rims
- Check spare wheel where applicable
6. Battery and Electrical Inspection
- Check battery condition
- Inspect battery information
- Check lights
- Check horn
- Test electrical switches and controls
- Check relevant electrical functions
7. Interior and Electronics Inspection
- Check seats and upholstery
- Test infotainment system
- Check air conditioning
- Test power windows
- Check steering controls
- Check central locking
- Test cameras and applicable sensors
- Check interior lights
8. Underbody Inspection
- Check for visible damage
- Look for unusual leaks
- Inspect accessible suspension components
- Check for signs of previous repair
- Inspect accessible underbody areas
9. Test Drive and Driving Checks
- Observe engine behaviour
- Check steering response
- Check braking behaviour
- Listen for unusual suspension noises
- Observe wheel alignment behaviour
- Check transmission operation where applicable
10. Documents and Delivery Verification
- Verify VIN and vehicle details
- Check invoice and delivery documents
- Review insurance documents
- Check applicable warranty information
- Verify registration-related documents
PDI Inspection in Delhi NCR
Buyers in Delhi NCR, including Delhi and Gurgaon, can consider an independent professional inspection before accepting delivery of a new car or purchasing a used vehicle.
Trusted PDI Inspector provides professional vehicle inspection covering 200+ critical inspection points across relevant areas of the vehicle.
Related PDI & Car Buying Guides
Frequently Asked Questions About PDI
What is a PDI inspection?
PDI stands for Pre-Delivery Inspection. It is a structured inspection performed before a buyer accepts delivery of a vehicle. It can include checks of the exterior, interior, mechanical components, electrical systems, tyres, battery, diagnostics and other relevant areas.
Is PDI necessary for a new car?
A PDI is strongly recommended before accepting delivery of a new car. It gives the buyer an opportunity to identify visible damage, paint issues, electrical concerns, tyre or battery issues and other observations before completing delivery.
What should I check during a new car PDI?
Important checks include paint and body condition, panel gaps, VIN, manufacturing information, tyres, battery, engine bay, lights, electrical features, infotainment, air conditioning, diagnostic information, documents and a test drive where applicable.
Can PDI detect an accidental or repaired car?
A professional inspection can identify signs that may indicate previous body repair, repainting or replacement parts, such as inconsistent panel gaps, paint variations and repair marks. Some hidden structural damage may require additional specialist examination.
Can PDI detect odometer tampering?
An inspection may identify mileage inconsistencies by comparing available diagnostic information, service records and other vehicle information. However, no single inspection method can guarantee detection of every form of odometer manipulation.
Where does Trusted PDI Inspector provide PDI services?
Trusted PDI Inspector focuses on professional vehicle inspection services in Delhi NCR, including Delhi and Gurgaon, with availability depending on the location and inspection requirements.
Need a Professional PDI Inspection?
Don't rely only on a quick showroom inspection. Get your vehicle professionally checked across 200+ critical inspection points before taking delivery or making an important buying decision.
Book PDI Inspection