How to Identify Stock Vehicles?
2 Answers
Here are the methods for identifying stock vehicles: 1. Check the paint surface: Basically, stock vehicles at 4S stores are "left" outdoors, with the body covered in dust. It is recommended to ask the 4S store to clean the car before carefully inspecting the paint surface for any scratches or dents, as there may be transportation damage when moving stock vehicles. 2. Check rubber materials such as sealing strips and tires: First, rubber is a product that is prone to wear and tear. If exposed to wind and sun, it can easily become whitened and aged, so you can check some sealing strips on the doors. 3. Check tire pressure, production date, and whether the tires are aged or cracked: Generally, there are 4 numbers on the tire that represent the production date of the tire. For example, the numbers "2817" on this tire represent the 28th week of 2017.
Identifying inventory cars before purchase is crucial. My experience suggests starting with the production date, usually found on the date label attached to the B-pillar or the engine compartment nameplate—check if it exceeds six months, as older cars carry higher risks. Next, inspect the tires; prolonged parking can lead to flat spots or cracks, and uneven tread when touched by hand is a warning sign. Open the hood to check for battery electrode corrosion or low charge, and don’t overlook signs of wire aging like peeling. Sit inside and sniff for odors; a musty smell indicates moisture issues. Test all functions, such as lights and air conditioning. Inventory cars often come with a 20% discount, but confirming the car’s condition is a priority to secure a good deal. Never rush—decide only after a smooth test drive startup.
