Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)

Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) is the process of preparing a new vehicle for the customer after it arrives at the dealership but before handover. Dealership technicians perform a PDI on new cars coming from the factory: they remove protective coverings, check fluid levels, battery charge, and tire pressures, and test that all lights, electronics, and mechanical functions are working properly. They may also install any dealer-added accessories (like floor mats, wheel locks, or spoilers) at this stage. In Canada, PDIs often include making sure things like daytime running lights are activated (mandatory here) and block heaters are installed/working for cars destined for colder regions. Essentially, it’s a thorough quality control step to catch any issues (sometimes minor manufacturing defects or damage from transport) and ensure the car meets both manufacturer specifications and dealership standards. The PDI is usually documented on a checklist that the technician signs off on, and the manufacturer compensates the dealer for this work (a pre-set PDI fee). For the customer, a properly done PDI means their new vehicle is clean, full of fuel, and ready to drive without problems. It’s an important part of delivering a “like-new” experience; if something is missed (e.g., low oil, or an unconnected battery cable), it can tarnish the first impression. So dealerships treat PDI seriously as the final step before a new car goes to its owner, making sure everything is flawless and that any in-transit issues are resolved proactively.