What Is PDI for a New Car?
PDI means pre-delivery inspection: a check of the exact new car allocated to you before you accept it. A buyer-arranged PDI is separate from the dealer's handover process. Confirm access and scope in advance, then use the findings to raise questions before delivery.
Before you decide
- Inspect the allocated vehicle, not a display or demonstration car.
- Agree on access and timing with the dealer before booking an independent inspector.
- A PDI is a record of observed condition, not a warranty or guarantee of future reliability.
What PDI means
PDI stands for pre-delivery inspection. From a buyer's perspective, it is a check of the actual car allocated for delivery before the buyer finally accepts it.
The purpose is to document the vehicle's visible condition, identity and applicable functions so issues can be raised with the dealer before delivery is completed.
When should you do a PDI?
Ideally, inspect the allotted vehicle before final delivery and, where practical, before registration or final acceptance. The exact timing depends on the dealer process and when access to the specific vehicle is allowed.
Ask the dealer to confirm the VIN and make the vehicle available with enough time for a proper inspection.
What can a new-car PDI include?
The exact checklist should match the vehicle type and service selected. Petrol, diesel and EV cars do not require identical inspection templates.
- VIN and vehicle identity confirmation
- Exterior paint, panels, glass and visible damage
- Interior fit-and-finish
- Tyres, wheels and visible underbody condition where accessible
- Electrical features and warning indicators
- Engine-bay observations for petrol or diesel vehicles
- Charging equipment and EV-specific checkpoints for electric vehicles
- Final delivery-readiness observations
What PDI cannot guarantee
A PDI records observed condition at the time of inspection. It cannot guarantee that a vehicle will never develop a fault, and it does not replace manufacturer diagnostics, warranty coverage or specialist workshop testing when those are required.
The value of PDI is that concerns visible or testable before delivery can be documented early.
What to do if an issue is found
Photograph and record the concern, ask the dealer for clarification, and request correction or an appropriate resolution before accepting delivery. For a significant concern, avoid relying only on a verbal assurance.
Keep the inspection findings and dealer response together so you have a clear record of what was discussed.
This guide is general buyer information. Inspection findings depend on the specific vehicle, access available at the time of inspection and the service selected. A vehicle inspection records observed condition and does not guarantee future reliability. Read our scope and editorial standards.