So, you've ordered your brand new lease car and you can't wait to get behind the wheel.
But before it gets delivered to you, the car will have to undergo a final 'warts and all' inspection to make sure that it's in tip-top shape. A PDI check.
But what does it involve, how long should it take, and will it affect your estimated delivery date?
What Is Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)?
Exactly how it sounds.
A Pre-Delivery Inspection (or PDI, for short) is a complete and thorough examination of a car prior to it being delivered to you.
Essentially, it's a final safety and cosmetics inspection to make sure that the vehicle's in prime working condition and optimal for driving. It's a comprehensive check that takes in everything from the interior, the paintwork, and the engine components (more on that in a bit). The whole shebang, really.
Why Is a PDI Necessary?
Because you don't want your brand new car to turn out to be a bucket of bolts, do you?
Put more politely . . . a PDI check is necessary for both new AND used cars in order to make sure that the vehicle is in the best shape and ready to be driven.
You see . . . just because it's a new vehicle doesn't always mean it's going to be fault-free. Vehicles can suffer damage during the production phase, or when in transit or when being handled at dealerships.
So the PDI is sort of like a last line of defence before the car gets released out into the world.
Who Completes the PDI Check?
Not you, luckily!
It's the vehicle's manufacturer or the supplying dealership who are responsible for carrying out the PDI check, so a trained technician will be on hand to do it.
The checks will normally be performed at the dealership or at a central holding compound where the vehicle is held.
How Long Does a Pre-Delivery Inspection Take?
How long it takes can depend on the make of the car and the level of detail that's requested in the check.
That being said, the average time to complete a PDI check should be 1 to 2 hours, but it can take up to 5 hours for some vehicles.
What Exactly Does the PDI Check Involve?
Like we say, pretty much everything.
It's a very thorough inspection, covering everything from the interior to the exterior, engine, cosmetics, etc.
Whilst each individual car manufacturer may have their own Pre-Delivery Inspection checklist, 6 key areas are typically checked:
Vehicle Exterior
The bonnet, the door panels, the roof, and the alloy wheels . . . Here, the inspection agent is on the lookout for any exterior damage such as scratches, bodywork dents, scuffs to the alloy wheels, or any missing parts. They'll also make sure that the exterior lights are in working order.
Vehicle Interior
Then comes the interior inspection, with checks on the upholstery to identify any rips or tears in the door panels or seating. The vehicle's console and dashboard features will also be tested, so think windscreen wipers, indicators, the infotainment system, and any USB ports.
Engine Compartment
The vital engine components will be checked for any visual flaws or irregular noises. All fluids (windscreen washer, engine coolant and brake fluid) are checked, as will be the battery for sufficient charge and to make sure that it's fully operational.
Vehicle Underside
Then a visual inspection will take place to ensure that there are no defects on the car's underside, such as tears or holes in the electrical lines, hoses, suspension, and exhaust.
Road Test
Last but not least, a short road test will occur to listen or feel for any problems with the steering, engine, brakes, transmission, clutch, cruise control, steering, etc. Also, the on-board computer will be scanned for any diagnostic error codes.
Final Preparation
The very last step for the technician is to remove all protective coverings and make sure that the vehicle's number plates are fitted on the car. They'll also make sure that the owner's manual, service book and warranty guide are present and available to hand over to you.
What Happens If Defects Are Found During PDI?
If defects are present in the car and it's discovered that they occurred during the manufacturing/transit phase, then the issue will be directed to the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer).
On the other hand, if the damage was caused due to the actions or mishandling of the dealership, then they will be the ones responsible for rectifying the damage.
Either way, it's not you who'll be dealing with the problem, and the issue(s) will be fixed or amended to the correct specification before the car is allowed out for delivery.
Will the PDI Check Affect the Vehicle's Scheduled Delivery Date?
The delivery process already takes the PDI check into account, so it shouldn't be affected.
Unless of course the PDI check discovers one or more faults with the car, in which case you can expect a delay.
The exact length of the delay will depend largely on the nature of the fault and the time required to fix it. Most minor problems like scuffs, scratches and cosmetic issues can be fixed at source, but greater mechanical issues like engine management issues may require a specialist to come out, therefore resulting in a longer wait.
It's important to be patient. Getting the car to you quickly would of course be good, but the top priority is in ensuring that the vehicle is safe and roadworthy.
Summary
So, that's what a PDI check is and what it involves!
Rest assured that your new lease vehicle will receive one prior to its delivery, meaning that there's much less chance of any problems occurring for you when out on the road.
FAQs
How long does a PDI take on a new car?
PDI times vary depending on the manufacturer and the level of detail requested in the check, but generally speaking, the average time is 1 to 2 hours. Depending on the car, it could take as long as 5 hours.
Why is PDI important?
The PDI process is important to ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy, good quality and safe for you to use. It identifies any issues that might have occurred during the manufacturing, assembling or transportation phase.
What does a PDI technician do?
A PDI technician is the person responsible for PDI checks. They are fully-trained to carry out the required inspections, which usually take place at a dealership or at a central holding compound where the car is held.