Where can I check if it's a new car?
3 Answers
On professional platforms, after entering the VIN, click search to view the vehicle information. The model year, which is the manufacturer's designated model year, may not necessarily be the actual production year, but the difference generally does not exceed one year from the actual production year.
To check if a car is new, I have a few reliable methods to share when buying a car myself. The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is the most direct way. You can usually find this string of characters at the lower left corner of the windshield. Copy it and enter it into apps like Carfax or Chinese used car platforms to check the history report. A new car should show zero accidents and low mileage records. You can also visit a 4S store or authorized dealer, as they have internal systems to help verify the production date and initial registration information. Don’t forget to check the vehicle documents—a new car should come with the original invoice, warranty card, and registration certificate, all of which can be verified for authenticity on the DMV website or app. Appearance details are also crucial—a new car should have no scratches, intact tire hairs, and clear engine oil. I recommend cross-checking from multiple angles to avoid spending big money on a refurbished used car disguised as new. Finally, before completing the transaction, enter the VIN on the manufacturer’s official website to confirm the production time for added peace of mind.
To confirm if a car is new, my friend got tricked before and later learned several techniques. First, checking the VIN is simple—copy the number on the windshield into a free app to scan the report, which shows mileage history and accidents. A clean record means it's new. Alternatively, check the vehicle registration certificate; the first registration date should clearly match the seller's claim. Visit a 4S shop to query their database—official channels provide reliable info. Pay attention to interior wear; a new car shouldn't have stains or scratches, and the AC vents should be sealed. Don’t just listen to the salesperson—verify yourself to avoid being scammed and wasting time. This small effort takes minutes but saves big money. Another tip: check the battery’s manufacturing date—if it’s too old, it’s not new.
