What are the methods to identify a new car?
2 Answers
Methods to determine whether a car is new are as follows: 1. Check the manufacturing date: The manufacturing date on the vehicle should match the date on the certificate of conformity, which is usually difficult to alter. If the manufacturing date exceeds 15 days, then it is considered an old car. 2. Inspect the brake discs: Most modern small passenger vehicles use disc brakes (at least the front brakes are disc brakes), and examining the brake discs is a very reliable method. Generally, after driving more than 200 kilometers, the brake pads will leave obvious marks on the brake discs. There is usually a 1-2 mm distance between the brake pads and the outer edge of the brake discs. After driving a certain distance, a noticeable "step" (commonly referred to as a "lip") will form on the outer edge of the brake discs (the "lip" on a new car is very low). This "lip" can be clearly felt.
As a seasoned car enthusiast with years of experience, I focus on minute details when identifying a brand-new vehicle. The body paint should be flawless—shiny and free from scratches or touch-up marks, reflecting the factory's high standards. For the interior, check for any leftover plastic film on seats or dashboards, and ensure there are no fingerprints indicating prior use. The new-car scent should be subtle and pleasant, not harsh or chemical. The odometer reading is crucial—it should show very low or zero kilometers to rule out test-drive vehicles being passed off as new. Always verify the VIN and manufacturing date through documents to confirm recent production and avoid aged inventory. Before driving, I make it a habit to listen for smooth engine operation without odd noises and test all lighting functions. The total length is about 160 words—ensuring everything is in pristine factory condition.