Is It Normal for Screws on a New Car to Have Been Turned?
3 Answers
It is not normal for screws on a new car to have been turned. Below are the steps for inspecting a new car upon delivery: 1. Check the exterior: First, conduct a detailed inspection of the vehicle's exterior to see if there are any scratches on the paint and to examine the tire wear. 2. Open the hood and inspect the engine compartment and screws for signs of tampering: In the engine compartment, primarily check if all fluids are at normal levels. Key areas to inspect: Familiarize yourself with and examine the internal layout of the engine; check the coolant level; inspect the brake fluid; check the engine oil level. Examine whether screws in various parts have been turned. 3. Check if all interior equipment is functioning properly: For interior equipment, focus on familiarizing yourself with and testing the operation of all buttons, the settings of various functions on the dashboard, whether the interior details are brand new and clean, and whether all onboard equipment is complete. 4. Check the vehicle's invoice, certificate of conformity, vehicle consistency certificate, and other documents: Verify details such as the displacement, manufacturing date, chassis number, and engine number on the nameplate. The numbers on the certificate of conformity must match the engine number and chassis number on the vehicle.
When I bought a new car, I also noticed some tool marks on several screws, like scratches left by wrenches. At first, I was worried if the car had been repaired or had issues, but later, an experienced driver friend explained it to me. During the factory assembly of new cars, workers use machines to quickly tighten bolts, which can leave marks. After being transported to the 4S store, slight loosening may occur due to vibration, so they recheck and tighten them. This is usually a normal routine procedure, and as long as the screws aren’t chipped, deformed, or severely rusted, there’s no problem. On the other hand, if the marks are very deep or the threads are worn, it might indicate improper handling or repairs from an accident, which requires caution. I suggest taking some time after getting a new car to check critical screws, such as those on the tires and engine, to ensure everything is properly tightened. If you’re still uneasy, referring to the user manual or visiting an authorized dealer for a recheck is a safer option.
As someone frequently exposed to automobiles, I've observed that it's not uncommon to find screw marks on new cars. During the factory assembly stage, machines inevitably leave traces when tightening screws; dealerships may also make minor adjustments before delivery to ensure safety, especially concerning chassis bolts or door hinges. Under normal circumstances, the marks should be slight, with the threads remaining intact and undamaged. However, if screws are deformed, noticeably loose, or show signs of rust, there may be issues, such as installation errors leading to reduced strength and compromised driving safety. Regularly checking the tightness of bolts during daily vehicle use is crucial to prevent accidents. If you notice anything suspicious upon receiving a new car, don't speculate blindly—check the service records directly or consult a professional technician to clarify the cause.
