How to Verify if a Car is New?
2 Answers
Methods to verify if a car is new: 1. Check the exterior. When selecting a new car, you can request two vehicles of the same model for comparison. Observe the bumpers, body panel gaps, paint finish, door gaps, and front/rear bumper gaps. Open the doors to check for any color difference between interior and exterior paint. 2. Inspect the engine. The exterior should be free of oil stains, and the engine should run smoothly without shaking, sharp noises, or irregular frequency sounds. 3. Examine the ground. After starting the engine, check underneath the vehicle for any water or oil stains. 4. Check the interior. It should be clean and tidy without stains. Verify the functionality of interior lights, original leather seat covers, and easily damaged components like cup holders and sunglass compartment lids. 5. Take a test drive. 6. Verify that the tool kit, vehicle documentation, and the VIN code on the certificate of conformity match the engine number and original vehicle.
I've got plenty of experience checking new cars! Last time I helped a friend inspect a car, we encountered a showroom model being passed off as new. First, feel the inner seams of the engine hood - a brand-new car has a layer of original wax film that feels slightly rough. Start the engine and check the exhaust pipe outlet - the metal should shine brightly on a new car, while a used one will have gray stains. The most effective trick is to get down and look at the chassis screws - any that have been turned will show wear marks. The tire treads can reveal tricks too - brand-new tires have all their triangular indicators intact, while retreaded ones will have them worn away. Make sure the plastic seal on the tool kit hasn't been opened, and it's crucial to check if the audio system's navigation records have been reset. Don't forget to verify the production month code on the windshield to avoid being tricked by stock vehicles.
