Will Scratched Paint Affect New Car Registration?

[AriannaDella]

Scratched paint on a new car can affect its registration. If the new car hasn't been registered yet and the scratches are noticeable, altering the vehicle's appearance, it won't be eligible for registration. In such cases, the scratched areas must be repainted before the car can proceed with the registration process at the vehicle management office. Car paint is sprayed onto the vehicle, serving as a type of protective coating. It forms a protective film on the car's surface, shielding the body from corrosion and extending the vehicle's lifespan. Cars have high requirements for paint, demanding not only excellent mechanical properties but also strong resistance to scratches and long-lasting gloss.

[DiChase]

I happened to research this yesterday. Paint scratches on new cars are actually quite common. During the vehicle registration and licensing process, the staff mainly inspect the overall condition of the body and safety-related parts such as lights and brakes, rather than minor scratches. However, if your scratch is in a critical area like the bumper or has obvious dents, you might be required to repair it before returning. I suggest you first check with your local DMV or take photos to assess the damage yourself. Minor scratches won't affect registration, but to be safe, it's best to take care of them before going for registration to avoid a wasted trip. After all, it's a new car—taking good care of it is always wise, and timely repairs can prevent rust and further deterioration.

[LaSarah]

I remember buying a brand-new car last year and accidentally scratching a small patch of paint in the garage the very next day. I was so nervous about it. However, when I went to register the vehicle, the DMV didn’t even notice—they just checked the VIN and license plate placement. They told me minor cosmetic issues don’t affect registration unless there’s significant damage or safety hazards. Now I understand that the key is ensuring the vehicle’s safety features are intact, while other minor issues aren’t strictly monitored. But just a heads-up: if the scratch is deep enough to expose bare metal, it’s best to get it fixed before going, to avoid potential corrosion. A paint touch-up isn’t expensive either, usually costing around 200–300 RMB.

[LeHaley]

When it comes to vehicle registration, minor paint scratches on a new car are usually not a big deal. The DMV primarily checks whether the vehicle meets roadworthiness standards, such as engine codes, emissions, and safety components. Small paint scratches won't affect the inspection process, but if the damage is too noticeable or involves structural deformation of the body, they might give you trouble. It's recommended to clean your car before going to keep it neat and tidy. Don't worry too much, most cases go smoothly.