Should You Pay First or Inspect the Car First When Taking Delivery?
2 Answers
When picking up your car, you should inspect the vehicle before making the payment. Below are the key points regarding the inspection process: 1. Inspection Confirmation: After the inspection, the 4S dealership will sign a delivery confirmation form. This form serves as an acknowledgment of the vehicle's condition, confirming that it meets the standards of a new car and that you agree to proceed with payment and take delivery. 2. Checking the Paint: Inspecting the car's paint requires some experience. Pay attention to the reflection of sunlight on the paint surface. If the reflection appears uneven or fragmented, it may indicate that the car has undergone polishing or excessive cleaning. Additionally, examine the paint in broad sections to identify any color discrepancies or unevenness. Also, carefully inspect the seams and joints for any irregularities.
Last time I picked up a new car, I carefully considered this issue. As someone who often helps friends choose cars, I first went to the dealership where the salesperson showed me the actual vehicle. I spent ten minutes checking for scratches on the exterior, ensuring the lights were functioning properly, and inspecting the interior and seats for any defects. Only after confirming everything was fine did I take out my wallet to pay the remaining balance. If you pay first and then inspect, discovering oil leaks or malfunctions later could lead to disputes over refunds. Remember, although the dealer's contract states payment before delivery, you can always politely insist. I recommend bringing a car-savvy friend along to avoid being misled as a novice. In short, inspect the car first to protect yourself—don’t rush to hand over the money.
