How to Avoid Getting a Showroom Car When Inspecting a New Vehicle?
2 Answers
Frequently needing to charge or jump-start the battery? Check the battery terminals for any signs of being clamped or if the terminal screws show signs of being removed. Inspect the engine hood latch for obvious signs of repeated opening and closing, as potential buyers often open and close the hood when viewing showroom cars. New car tires should be brand new—check for the presence of production marker lines (often in red or blue) on the tread and whether the tire hairs show significant wear. The brake discs on a new car should be smooth and even; deeper scratches would indicate the vehicle has been driven for a considerable distance.
When buying a new car, I really hate it when the display car has been sat in or started—it just doesn't feel fresh anymore. First, go straight to checking the odometer. A new car should typically have less than 10 kilometers on it; anything more is suspicious. Next, look for wear on the tire tread hairs—display cars often slide on the showroom floor, which can wear them down. Then, pop the hood to check for any tape residue or fingerprints; a new car should be spotless. Don’t forget to verify the production date on the documents, usually found on the door frame or the certificate. If it’s too old, like over 3 months, it might be a display or stock car. Finally, insist on seeing the car in the warehouse, not the showroom, to avoid sales tricks. I’ve tried this a few times, and it’s saved me from many pitfalls—only then can I drive the new car home with peace of mind. Remember to specify in the contract that the car is fresh from the factory—adding this safeguard is extra insurance.
