New car delivery inspection checklist
For buyers collecting a new car from a dealer or delivery center. Complete these checks before signing final acceptance paperwork when possible.
What to get
Vehicle identification number matches contract
Exterior paint inspected in daylight
Glass inspected for chips or scratches
Wheel condition checked
Tire size matches order
Odometer reading recorded
Interior upholstery checked
Dashboard warning lights checked
Air conditioning tested
Heater tested
Headlights and brake lights tested
Power windows tested
Door locks tested
Infotainment system tested
Phone pairing completed
Navigation features checked if included
Charging cable received if applicable
Spare key or fob received
Owner's manual received
Warranty booklet received
Temporary registration received
Final signed contract copy received
Who this list is for
This checklist is for a buyer collecting a new car from a dealer or delivery center. Use it before signing final acceptance paperwork when possible, while questions and visible issues can still be addressed on site.
How to use this list
Start outside in daylight. Confirm the vehicle identification number matches the contract, then inspect exterior paint, glass, wheels, tire size, and odometer reading. Move inside to check upholstery, dashboard warning lights, air conditioning, heater, power windows, door locks, and infotainment. Pair your phone and check navigation features if included.
Common mistakes
Do not save visible paint, glass, wheel, or upholstery checks for after you leave. Do not assume an extra key or fob, owner’s manual, warranty booklet, charging cable, or temporary registration is already in the vehicle. Test basic controls rather than merely seeing that they turn on. Keep the final signed contract copy with the delivery paperwork.
What is on this list
The list covers VIN confirmation, exterior and interior condition, tire size, odometer, warning lights, climate controls, lights, windows, locks, and infotainment. It also includes phone pairing, navigation, charging cable if applicable, spare key or fob, owner’s manual, warranty booklet, temporary registration, and contract copy. Cross off each item as you check it.
Before you go
Take your time and record the odometer reading. If possible, complete the exterior inspection in daylight and test the features before final acceptance. Gather every document and supplied item in one place before driving away. Keep the temporary registration and signed contract copy where you can find them later.
FAQ
Who is "New car delivery inspection checklist" for?
This checklist is for a buyer collecting a new car from a dealer or delivery center. Use it before signing final acceptance paperwork when possible, while questions and visible issues can still be addressed on site.
How should I use "New car delivery inspection checklist"?
Start outside in daylight. Confirm the vehicle identification number matches the contract, then inspect exterior paint, glass, wheels, tire size, and odometer reading. Move inside to check upholstery, dashboard warning lights, air conditioning, heater, power windows, door locks, and infotainment. Pair your phone and check navigation features if included.
What should I skip or avoid with "New car delivery inspection checklist"?
Do not save visible paint, glass, wheel, or upholstery checks for after you leave. Do not assume an extra key or fob, owner’s manual, warranty booklet, charging cable, or temporary registration is already in the vehicle. Test basic controls rather than merely seeing that they turn on. Keep the final signed contract copy with the delivery paperwork.
What is on the "New car delivery inspection checklist" list?
The list covers VIN confirmation, exterior and interior condition, tire size, odometer, warning lights, climate controls, lights, windows, locks, and infotainment. It also includes phone pairing, navigation, charging cable if applicable, spare key or fob, owner’s manual, warranty booklet, temporary registration, and contract copy. Cross off each item as you…
What should I do before I go?
Take your time and record the odometer reading. If possible, complete the exterior inspection in daylight and test the features before final acceptance. Gather every document and supplied item in one place before driving away. Keep the temporary registration and signed contract copy where you can find them later.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.