A pre-delivery inspection (PDI) is the last check before a used car goes to its new owner. Done properly, it catches the small faults that turn into complaints, and gives you a record of the car's condition if anything is questioned later. Here's a practical checklist.
Paperwork
- V5C logbook present and matching the car (VIN and registration)
- Current MOT if the car needs one, with any advisories noted
- Service history and receipts gathered together
- Number of keys recorded, including the spare
- Any outstanding manufacturer recalls checked
Exterior and body
- Walk around the car in good light and note every dent, scratch and chip
- Check panel gaps and paint match for signs of repair
- Glass, mirrors and wiper blades in good condition
- All lights working: headlights, indicators, brake, reverse, fog and number plate lights
- Number plates legal and secure
Tyres, wheels and brakes
- Tread depth on every tyre, including the spare if there is one. The UK legal minimum for cars is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, around the whole tyre
- No cuts, bulges or uneven wear
- Tyre pressures set to the manufacturer's figures
- Wheels free of damage, and the locking wheel nut key present
- Brake pads and discs checked
Under the bonnet
- Oil, coolant, brake fluid and screen wash at the right levels
- No leaks or unusual noises
- Battery condition checked
- Service indicator reset if a service has been done
Interior and electrics
- No warning lights on the dashboard after start-up
- Air conditioning, heating and demisting working
- Windows, central locking, infotainment and sat nav working
- Seats, belts and trim in good condition
- Interior valeted and free of personal items
Road test
Drive the car on a mix of roads. Check that it starts cleanly, the gearbox changes smoothly, the steering pulls straight, the brakes stop evenly, and there are no knocks, rattles or warning lights.
Record it and hand over
A check that isn't recorded is hard to prove later. Take photos of the car's condition, note any damage, and have the customer sign at handover. If the car is being delivered, the same applies at the customer's door: check their ID, take condition photos and get their signature.
Frequently asked questions
What is a PDI on a used car?
A pre-delivery inspection (PDI) is the check a dealer carries out before handing a car to its new owner, covering paperwork, condition, safety items and a road test.
What is the legal minimum tyre tread depth in the UK?
For cars, 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, around the whole circumference of the tyre.
Why should a PDI be recorded?
A dated record with photos shows the condition the car was in at handover, which helps if a customer later raises a problem.
Can I do a PDI on my phone?
Yes. In DealerGate the PDI checklist, damage and photos are completed on the iOS or Android app and stored against the car.
Should the customer sign at handover?
It's good practice. A signature confirms the customer received the car, and DealerGate stores it with the handover or delivery record.
Make every PDI count
Run your PDI checklist on the DealerGate app, with photos and the customer's signature saved against the car.