Will scratches on a new car affect its registration?

[Perez]

Scratches on a new car can affect its registration. Scratches are considered exterior damage, which may cause the vehicle to fail the appearance inspection, making it impossible to obtain a license plate and register the car. Documents required for registration: ID card, vehicle certificate of conformity, vehicle parameter sheet, second and fourth copies of the car invoice, vehicle purchase tax, car insurance policy, purchase invoice, vehicle certificate of conformity, ID card or organization code certificate and its copy for invoice issuance, compulsory insurance policy, tax payment certificate, and a temporary residence permit for non-locals. Registration process: After preparing the materials, go to the vehicle management office to submit the documents, sign as the owner, have the vehicle inspected and confirmed by the traffic police, choose a license plate number, receive the receipt, install the license plate, and collect the vehicle license and registration certificate.

[DeKatherine]

It's definitely heartbreaking to see a new car get scratched, but based on my over ten years of driving experience, it won't directly affect the vehicle registration. During registration, the DMV mainly checks hard indicators like the VIN and engine serial number, as well as whether the vehicle's safety features meet standards, such as brake light functionality. Minor scratches or slight paint chips on the exterior are usually overlooked and won't cause any issues. However, if the scratch is particularly deep, causing a cracked headlight cover or body deformation that affects driving safety, then problems might arise. I suggest you proceed with the registration first and address any issues later if necessary. Of course, repairing a new car sooner is better to avoid affecting its resale value. Drive carefully on the road—safety is the top priority.

[McKaleb]

As someone who frequently repairs cars, I understand your concerns. Vehicle registration primarily depends on regulatory compliance, such as meeting emission standards and having intact safety systems. Minor scratches are hardly checked during registration inspections, as long as the vehicle's overall functionality is normal. However, if the scratches damage components like headlights or bumpers, affecting roadworthiness, repairs are necessary beforehand. I recommend going directly to the DMV to try; don't scare yourself unnecessarily. Fixing scratches on a new car isn't difficult—find a good body shop and it can be done in a day. Driving habits are important to avoid similar issues.

[McBethany]

I panicked too when I just got my new car scratched, but later realized it's no big deal. Minor scratches don't affect registration - the DMV only cares about roadworthiness, not superficial exterior damage. When I went for registration, they just scanned codes and checked the engine, didn't even look at the paint. Don't worry, just get the paperwork done. The sooner you fix a new car's scratches, the better - otherwise it'll keep bothering you. Just sharing my experience.