How to Check If a New Car Is a Stock Vehicle When Buying?
3 Answers
You can check the vehicle's nameplate, tire wear and manufacturing date, and the inner wall of the exhaust pipe. Below are the details on determining whether a car is a stock vehicle: 1. Check the vehicle's nameplate: The nameplate is usually located below the B-pillar on the passenger side and is easy to find. It displays basic vehicle information, including the brand, model, engine power, total weight, load capacity or passenger count, manufacturing number, manufacturing date, and manufacturer name. First, look at the manufacturing date. If the manufacturing date is within three months of your purchase date, it is not a stock vehicle. If it exceeds three months, it can generally be considered a stock vehicle. 2. Check tire wear and manufacturing date: Generally, new car tires show minimal wear. The tread hairs on the tire sidewalls should be clearly visible. If you notice the absence of tread hairs, pay attention and then check the tire's manufacturing date. 3. Check the inner wall of the exhaust pipe: This is also an effective method to distinguish between a stock vehicle and a new car. Simply insert a finger into the exhaust pipe and feel the inner wall. If your finger comes out clean, it indicates the car is new.
Before buying a car, I always check the production date first. You can find it through the VIN code—for example, the tenth digit of the VIN indicates the year. Also, look at the label on the door or the manufacturing date on the vehicle's nameplate. Cars older than six months might be considered inventory, and components like the battery or tire treads may have aged. I also start the engine to listen for smooth operation and inspect the chassis for rust spots or excessive dust buildup. Inventory cars often come with discounts, but don’t just chase the lower price—prolonged storage can affect rubber seals. Open the doors to check if the sealing strips are dry or hardened, and test the efficiency of the air vents. Remember to bring a friend along to inspect everything from details to the overall condition, ensuring the car is safe for the road.
As a buyer, I am particularly cautious about inventory vehicles. First, locate the VIN code from the car key or under the windshield, then decode it to determine the production date. If the car is over six months old, I directly ask the salesperson about its storage location. Next, check the odometer—a new car should have less than 100 kilometers to be considered reliable. Also, pay attention to whether the tire treads are clear, and it's best if there are factory tire hairs on the sidewalls. Battery testing is crucial, as inventory vehicles are prone to leakage or corrosion. Lubricant inspection is equally important; the engine oil should be clear and free of debris. While inventory cars might be a few hundred dollars cheaper, weigh this against potential repair costs. I recommend taking a test drive before signing the contract to simulate real road conditions.
