How to Identify if a New Car is a Stock Vehicle?

[MichaelRose]

To determine whether a car is a stock vehicle, follow these methods: 1. Check the vehicle nameplate: The vehicle nameplate is usually located below the B-pillar on the passenger side and is easy to find. The nameplate displays basic vehicle information, including the manufacturer, model, engine power, total weight, load capacity or passenger capacity, production number, production 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 is likely a stock vehicle. 2. Inspect tire wear and production 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, be cautious. Next, check the tire production date. The tire sidewall has a series of numbers, such as 0717. The latter two digits (17) represent the production year, and the first two digits (07) represent the week, indicating the tire was produced in the seventh week of 2017, i.e., mid-February 2017. Compare this with the vehicle's production date on the nameplate. If they are close, it is not a stock vehicle. A significant difference warrants attention. 3. Examine the exhaust pipe interior: Insert a finger into the exhaust pipe. If it comes out clean, it is a new car. If dirty, be cautious. A new car's exhaust pipe should not be dirty. Additionally, the odometer reading should not be the primary reference. 4. Inspect the engine compartment: Open the hood and check the engine compartment. If there is thick dust or oil stains, it indicates prolonged storage or excessive mileage. Also, inspect components for deformation, discoloration, alignment, or signs of removal. 5. Check rubber parts for aging or detachment: Open the doors and trunk lid to inspect seals and other rubber parts. If seals are loose or aged, it suggests prolonged storage. If the seals fit snugly without replacement marks, it is a new car. 6. Examine the foot pedals: Open the doors and inspect the foot pedals thoroughly. Wear or excessive dust in the gaps may indicate a test-drive or stock vehicle. Clean pedals suggest a new car.