Checks When Buying New Car

[JWC86]

We are picking up a new SUV next week, what are some things most people don’t think about that should be checked when getting a new vehicle from the dealer?

 

[AZjeff]

Do an extremely thorough inspection of the exterior and interior for flaws. Make sure that every switch operates and every function works. Check air pressure and oil level. If it has any grease fittings give them a few pumps sometime soon after you get it to make sure they have a decent amount of grease in them. GM trucks have very little grease in the steering joints. I actually re-torqued the lug nuts on the new truck but I'm weird. Take as much time as you need at the dealer and have anything documented. My salesman friend says the majority of people never even look under the hood during the buying process.

 

[CKN]

There are not a lot of visible flaws with new vehicles today- there just isn't. However after owning a few months it is possible to notice a squeak or rattle in the interiors.

 

[I<3oil]

Check paint for scrapes/scratches/anything to buff out
Check for any horribly aligned panels inside and out

 

[Leo99]

Bring someone with you. It's difficult to look things over when you're excited to pick up a new vehicle plus you need to deal with all the paperwork and stuff.