EV Delivery Check

Tesla Model 3 delivery checklist

A guided inspection for Model 3 deliveries between 2024 and 2026, adapted to your market and the options actually fitted to your car.

Set up your vehicle, choose the essential or complete path, then work through the sections in walk-around order. Every status, note and photo stays on this device.

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What is specific to the Model 3

The Model 3 is a saloon, so the boot aperture is smaller and the seal around it is easier to check in one pass. The rear screen is fixed glass with a heating element rather than a wiper, so the demist element lines are worth reading carefully along their full width.

The control layout changed on recent model years. Depending on when your car was built, indicators and wipers may be on column stalks or on steering wheel buttons, with drive selection on the screen. The checklist asks you to confirm behaviour against the owner manual for your model year rather than against an older car you may have driven.

Because the boot floor sits lower than on a crossover, standing water and a dirty tide mark under the floor are visible earlier here. Lift the floor and the underfloor bins rather than checking the boot from standing height.

How the walk-around is ordered

The sections follow one physical loop, not a thematic grouping. Paperwork and configuration first, because a wrong colour or wrong wheel specification is not a defect to be repaired: it is the wrong car, and it is far easier to resolve before a signature.

Then the exterior loop, the wheels and underbody, the compartments and the charge port, then inside from the driver seat outwards, then the screen and connectivity, then a short drive, then the handover decision.

Evidence, not impressions

A note that says "small mark on the door" is very hard to act on weeks later. A note that says which door, where on the panel, how large, plus a photo taken with a raking light, is something a service centre can find and address.

That is why photographs attach to a specific item rather than to the inspection as a whole, and why the report prints them next to the item they belong to.

Before you arrive

Open this page once with a connection so it is cached for offline use. Bring a light source and a cloth, and ask for the car to be dry and parked somewhere you can walk all the way around it.

Confirm that you can inspect before signing, and give yourself unhurried time. Nearly every complaint about a rushed delivery traces back to those two things.

These four links go to Tesla, Inc. Tesla is the authority on how your vehicle should behave and on how a defect is handled after delivery; this site is an independent checklist with no connection to Tesla. Open the pages for your own model year and region.

Independent tool. Not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to Tesla, Inc. Tesla, Model 3 and Model Y are trademarks of their respective owner and are used here descriptively only.

Model 3 — Checklists

Every check below is rendered in the page. Enable JavaScript to record statuses, add photos and generate a report.

1. Preparation and documents

Before you touch the car, make sure you can inspect properly and that the paperwork matches your order.

Where to stand: Standing next to the vehicle, before signing anything

  • Confirm you can inspect before signing Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Ask the delivery advisor to confirm you may inspect the vehicle fully before any acceptance document is signed, and note how much time you have.
    Expected outcome
    You are told, clearly, that inspection happens before signature and you have at least 30 unhurried minutes.
    If it fails
    Ask politely for the inspection to happen first. If that is refused, record the refusal in writing before continuing.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Identity, licence and insurance ready Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Lay out your photo identity document, driving licence and proof of insurance, and compare the names with the order.
    Expected outcome
    All three documents are present, valid, and the holder name matches the order exactly.
    If it fails
    Resolve the mismatch with the delivery team before handover; a name mismatch can block registration later.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Payment or finance shown as settled Administrative

    How to check
    Open your account or order page and check that the balance shows as received and that any finance agreement is active.
    Expected outcome
    The order shows no outstanding balance and the financing, if any, is confirmed.
    If it fails
    Do not proceed to handover until the payment status is resolved and visible in writing.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Vehicle clean, dry and in usable light Administrative

    How to check
    Look at the body under even light. Water beads and dust hide swirl marks, scratches and dents; ask for a wipe-down or move the car out of a dark bay.
    Expected outcome
    The paint is dry and lit well enough that you can see reflections along every panel.
    If it fails
    Ask for the car to be dried or repositioned. If that is impossible, note that lighting limited the inspection.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Torch, cloth and tyre gauge to hand Administrative

    How to check
    Check you have a torch or phone light, a clean microfibre cloth and a tyre pressure gauge before you start.
    Expected outcome
    All three are available. A raking light across a panel is the single most effective paint inspection tool.
    If it fails
    Continue without them if necessary, but plan a second inspection at home in good light within 48 hours.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • A second person or a recorded walk-around Administrative

    How to check
    Bring someone to operate lights and doors while you look, or record a slow continuous video of the whole car before handover.
    Expected outcome
    You can verify light functions alone and you hold a timestamped record of the vehicle condition at handover.
    If it fails
    If nobody is available, record the walk-around video yourself and keep the original file.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

2. Configuration and VIN

Confirm that the vehicle in front of you is the exact one you ordered and paid for.

Where to stand: At the windscreen and the driver door jamb

  • VIN on the windscreen matches your order Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Read the VIN plate visible through the base of the windscreen and compare all 17 characters with the VIN in your account and contract.
    Expected outcome
    Every character matches. Pay attention to characters that look alike in a hurry, such as 5 and S or 0 and D.
    If it fails
    Stop and resolve before signing. Taking delivery of a different VIN than the contract creates registration and warranty problems.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Door jamb label matches the windscreen VIN Administrative

    How to check
    Open the driver door and read the manufacturer label on the B-pillar or door jamb, including VIN, weights and tyre pressures.
    Expected outcome
    The label is present, undamaged, and its VIN matches the windscreen. Photograph it: the tyre pressures printed here are the reference for the wheel checks.
    If it fails
    Report a missing, damaged or mismatched label immediately. It is a regulatory identification plate, not decoration.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Model, trim and drive type match the order Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Compare the model and version on your order with the badging, the vehicle information screen and the delivery paperwork.
    Expected outcome
    Rear-wheel drive versus all-wheel drive, standard versus long range, and any performance version match the order exactly.
    If it fails
    Do not sign for a different specification. Ask for the correct vehicle or a written amendment agreed by both parties.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Paint colour matches the order Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Compare the delivered colour with your order line, in daylight if possible. Metallic and multi-coat finishes look very different under sodium lighting.
    Expected outcome
    The colour name on the order matches the vehicle, and the finish is uniform across all panels.
    If it fails
    A wrong colour is not a defect to be repaired; it is the wrong vehicle. Raise it before any signature.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Wheel design and size match the order Administrative

    How to check
    Compare the fitted wheel design and diameter with your order. Read the size from the tyre sidewall rather than guessing from the look.
    Expected outcome
    Design name and diameter match the order on all four corners, including any aero covers you paid for.
    If it fails
    Wheels change range, ride and insurance value. Ask for correction in writing before handover.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Interior colour and seat material match the order Administrative

    How to check
    Open a door and compare the seat colour, trim inserts and headliner with the configuration you ordered.
    Expected outcome
    The interior matches the order line, including any upgraded interior you paid for.
    If it fails
    Raise a mismatch as a specification error, not a defect, and get the resolution written into the handover form.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Paid options are physically present Administrative

    How to check
    Go through your order line by line and physically confirm each paid option, such as a tow hitch, roof rack mounting or an upgraded audio package.
    Expected outcome
    Every billed option is on the car or clearly visible in the vehicle software.
    If it fails
    A missing option is a billing issue as much as a delivery issue. Get it written down and keep the order confirmation.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Odometer reading is plausible for a new vehicle Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Read the odometer on the vehicle screen and record it in this inspection before you drive.
    Expected outcome
    A new car normally shows a low delivery mileage from transport and yard movements. Anything substantially higher deserves an explanation.
    If it fails
    Ask what accounts for the mileage and have the answer written into the handover form. Record the exact figure either way.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Battery level is enough to reach home or a charger Functional

    How to check
    Read the state of charge and estimated range on the screen and compare it with your journey home plus a margin.
    Expected outcome
    The remaining range comfortably covers the drive home or the nearest reliable charger.
    If it fails
    Ask for a charge before you leave, or plan a charging stop and record the delivered state of charge.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

3. Front of the vehicle

Start the loop at the front bumper. Crouch to eye level so reflections reveal the paint surface.

Where to stand: Facing the front bumper, then step back two metres

  • Front bumper finish and alignment Cosmetic

    How to check
    Crouch to bumper height and look along the surface. Check the joins to the wings and the bonnet on both sides.
    Expected outcome
    No chips, scuffs or paint runs, and the bumper sits flush with the wings with an even gap on both sides.
    If it fails
    Photograph each defect with a scale reference, then have it logged as a paint or panel defect on the handover form.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Bonnet gaps even and bonnet sits flush Cosmetic

    How to check
    Stand square to the front and compare the gap on the left and right of the bonnet along its full length. Run a fingertip across the joint to feel a height step.
    Expected outcome
    The two gaps are visually equal along their length and the bonnet edge is level with the wings.
    If it fails
    Photograph both sides from the same distance so the difference is visible, then request an alignment adjustment.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Headlight units clear, aligned and free of moisture Functional

    How to check
    Look into both headlight lenses from directly in front, then from an angle. Compare their height and how far they sit proud of the bumper.
    Expected outcome
    No cracks, no internal condensation, no foreign objects, and both units sit at the same height and depth.
    If it fails
    Condensation inside a sealed unit is a warranty matter. Photograph it and open a service request before you leave.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • All front lighting functions work Essential Safety

    How to check
    With a helper or a reflective wall, cycle through daytime running lights, dipped beam, main beam, both indicators and the hazard lights.
    Expected outcome
    Every function lights on both sides at equal brightness, and the indicators flash at a normal rate.
    If it fails
    A lighting fault is a roadworthiness matter in most markets. Do not accept the vehicle until it is fixed or formally recorded.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Windscreen free of chips, cracks and distortion Essential Safety

    How to check
    Look through the glass from the driver seat and then across it from outside at a shallow angle, paying attention to the swept area and the edges.
    Expected outcome
    No chips, no cracks, no delamination and no visual distortion in the driver field of view.
    If it fails
    A chip spreads. Have it recorded before signing; a replacement on a camera-equipped windscreen also needs recalibration.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Front camera and sensor apertures undamaged Functional

    How to check
    Inspect the camera housing behind the windscreen and the small apertures in the front bumper for cracks, paint overspray or debris.
    Expected outcome
    Lenses and apertures are clean, clear and undamaged, with no paint or adhesive covering them.
    If it fails
    Have it cleaned or repaired before delivery: an obstructed sensor degrades driver assistance features you have paid for.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Lower front trim, air dam and tow eye cover secure Cosmetic

    How to check
    Look under the front of the bumper. Check the lower spoiler, any deflectors and the removable tow eye cover.
    Expected outcome
    All lower trim is clipped in, undistorted and free of transport scrapes; the tow eye cover is present and flush.
    If it fails
    Loose lower trim gets torn off by the first kerb. Ask for the clips to be reseated and the missing cover supplied.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Front trim and badging straight, no adhesive residue Cosmetic

    How to check
    Check that any front emblem or trim strip is level and that there is no glue, film residue or transport tape left on the paint.
    Expected outcome
    Trim is straight and the paint around it is clean, with no adhesive haze or lifted edges.
    If it fails
    Ask for the residue to be removed by the delivery team rather than doing it yourself with a solvent.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

4. Driver side

Walk down the driver side. Sight along the body line from front to rear before looking at details.

Where to stand: Along the driver side, front wing to rear quarter

  • Sight the driver side body line for dents and waves Essential Cosmetic

    How to check
    Stand at the front wing and look along the flank at a shallow angle so the reflected line of the building or sky runs down the car.
    Expected outcome
    The reflection stays straight and continuous. A kink, ripple or step in the reflection means a dent or a repaired panel.
    If it fails
    Mark the spot, photograph the reflection rather than the paint, and have it inspected by the delivery team on the spot.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Paint defects: scratches, runs, overspray, orange peel Cosmetic

    How to check
    Light each panel at a raking angle with a torch and look for sanding marks, dust inclusions, paint runs, overspray on trim and swirl marks from a dirty wash.
    Expected outcome
    The finish is even, with no runs, no dust nibs and no polishing swirls that catch the light.
    If it fails
    Photograph with the torch in shot so the defect is reproducible, and have each one listed individually rather than as one line.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Door gaps even and doors flush with the body Cosmetic

    How to check
    Compare the gap at the top and bottom of each door shut line, and feel whether the door skin sits proud of or below the wing.
    Expected outcome
    Each shut line is parallel from top to bottom and the door surfaces are level with the surrounding panels.
    If it fails
    Photograph the full shut line, note which door, and request an adjustment on the handover form.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Driver side doors open and close correctly Essential Functional

    How to check
    Open and close both doors several times, from inside and outside, using the electric release and the manual release.
    Expected outcome
    Doors open smoothly, close with normal effort on the first attempt, and no warning appears on the screen.
    If it fails
    A door needing a slam usually needs a striker adjustment. Have it done before delivery rather than after.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Driver mirror folds, adjusts and heats Functional

    How to check
    Fold and unfold the mirror from the screen, adjust it on both axes, and switch on the mirror heating to feel the glass warm.
    Expected outcome
    Movement is smooth in every direction, the housing is undamaged, and the glass warms within a couple of minutes.
    If it fails
    Note whether the fault is movement, heating or the glass itself; they are three different repairs.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Side glass and door seals on the driver side Functional

    How to check
    Lower and raise each window fully, then run a finger along the rubber seals looking for twists, gaps, unglued sections or transport marks.
    Expected outcome
    Windows travel smoothly and seat fully, and the seals are continuous, bonded and correctly seated in their channels.
    If it fails
    A poorly bonded seal causes wind noise and water ingress. Record it now; it is much harder to prove after the first rain.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Side repeater camera lens clean and undamaged Functional

    How to check
    Inspect the small camera set into the front wing just behind the wheel arch.
    Expected outcome
    The lens is clear, the surround is flush with the wing and there is no cracking, water mark or paint on it.
    If it fails
    Cross-check with the camera preview on the screen and log a fault if the image is blurred or missing.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Door handles sit flush and operate cleanly Functional

    How to check
    Operate both driver side handles several times and check they return to the flush position without sticking or rattling.
    Expected outcome
    Each handle moves with an even action, sits flush when released, and its paint is undamaged at the pivot.
    If it fails
    Note the specific handle and whether the problem is the action, the return or a paint chip at the pivot point.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Roof rails and their mounting points are sound Functional

    How to check
    Sight along each roof rail from front to rear, then run a finger over every mounting point and check that each cover is present, flush and firmly seated.
    Expected outcome
    Both rails are straight and evenly spaced from the roof, with no scratches around the fixings, no lifted cover and nothing missing.
    If it fails
    Photograph the rail against the roof line before you accept it. A rail that does not sit correctly is both a water path and a load-carrying concern.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

5. Rear of the vehicle

At the back, check the tailgate alignment and every rear light function with a helper or a reflection.

Where to stand: Behind the vehicle, tailgate closed then open

  • Rear bumper finish, diffuser and alignment Cosmetic

    How to check
    Crouch behind the car and sight along the bumper, then check the joins with the rear quarters and the lower diffuser.
    Expected outcome
    No scuffs from loading, even gaps to the quarter panels, and the diffuser clipped in without distortion.
    If it fails
    Rear bumper scuffs often come from transport straps. Photograph and log them before the vehicle leaves the site.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Tailgate gaps even and tailgate sits flush Essential Cosmetic

    How to check
    Close the tailgate fully and compare the gap on the left and right sides, then look along the top edge for a height step.
    Expected outcome
    Gaps are symmetrical and the tailgate surface is level with the surrounding panels along its whole edge.
    If it fails
    A misaligned tailgate is the most common delivery adjustment and also the most common cause of a boot water leak. Insist it is logged.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Powered tailgate opens, closes and reverses on obstruction Functional

    How to check
    Operate the tailgate from the screen, the app and the tailgate button. With your hand safely placed on the closing edge, check that it stops and reverses.
    Expected outcome
    Movement is smooth and even, without grinding, and the obstruction detection stops the tailgate immediately.
    If it fails
    Obstruction detection is a pinch-injury protection. Treat a failure as a safety issue, not a convenience issue.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • All rear lighting functions work Essential Safety

    How to check
    With a helper, or by reversing towards a wall or shop window, check tail lights, brake lights, the high-level brake light, both indicators, reversing lights and the number plate lights.
    Expected outcome
    Every function lights on both sides at equal brightness, with no dead segments in the light bars.
    If it fails
    Do not accept a rear lighting fault. Rear light failures are both a safety and a roadworthiness matter.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Rear fog light works Safety

    How to check
    Switch on the rear fog light from the vehicle lighting controls and confirm it illuminates and that the indicator appears on the screen.
    Expected outcome
    The rear fog light illuminates clearly and switches off again. It is mandatory equipment on European market vehicles.
    If it fails
    Report a non-functioning rear fog light before delivery: it is a roadworthiness item in European markets.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Rear glass condition and demist element Functional

    How to check
    Inspect the rear screen for chips and scratches, then switch on the rear demist and check for warmth or for the heating element lines being unbroken.
    Expected outcome
    Glass is undamaged and the demist element lines are continuous across the full width.
    If it fails
    A broken element line usually means glass replacement. Log it before signing rather than after the first cold morning.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Number plate mounting and rear badging correct Administrative

    How to check
    Check that the plate holder or mounting points are present and undamaged, that the plate is straight, and that the rear badging matches the version you ordered.
    Expected outcome
    Mounting hardware is supplied, the plate is straight and secure, and badging matches the ordered version.
    If it fails
    Ask for the missing hardware to be supplied at handover; sourcing it afterwards wastes a service visit.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Tow hitch fitted, deploys and electrics work Functional

    How to check
    Deploy and retract the tow hitch as described in the owner manual, and check the electrical socket for corrosion, damage or a missing cap.
    Expected outcome
    The hitch deploys and locks, the socket is clean with its cap fitted, and the vehicle screen shows towing mode as available.
    If it fails
    Test with a trailer board if one is available. Record any fault before delivery: retrofitting or repairing a hitch is a workshop job.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

6. Passenger side

Close the loop along the passenger side, using the same method as the driver side.

Where to stand: Along the passenger side, rear quarter to front wing

  • Compare the passenger flank against the driver side Cosmetic

    How to check
    Repeat the raking-light sighting on this flank, then deliberately compare gaps and reflections with what you saw on the driver side.
    Expected outcome
    Both flanks look the same. Asymmetry between the two sides is a stronger signal of a problem than any single measurement.
    If it fails
    Photograph both sides from the same distance and angle so the comparison is usable evidence.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Passenger side paint and shut lines Cosmetic

    How to check
    Torch each panel at a raking angle and check both door shut lines top to bottom, as you did on the driver side.
    Expected outcome
    No runs, chips, overspray or swirls, and shut lines parallel along their full length.
    If it fails
    List each defect separately with its own photo; a single line saying "paint marks" is rarely repaired properly.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Passenger side doors and handles operate correctly Functional

    How to check
    Open and close both passenger doors from inside and outside, and operate both handles several times.
    Expected outcome
    Both doors latch on the first attempt and both handles return flush without sticking.
    If it fails
    Note the specific door and whether the fault is the latch, the handle or the electric release.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Passenger mirror, including reverse tilt Functional

    How to check
    Fold, unfold, adjust and heat the passenger mirror, then select reverse to check that the automatic tilt-down works if enabled.
    Expected outcome
    All movements work, the heating warms the glass, and the mirror tilts down in reverse when the setting is on.
    If it fails
    If tilt-down does not work, check the setting first; only log it as a defect once the setting is confirmed enabled.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Passenger side glass, seals and water channels Functional

    How to check
    Cycle both windows fully, feel along the seals, and check the drain channel at the base of each door for debris or sealant residue.
    Expected outcome
    Windows seat fully, seals are continuous, and the drains are clear so rainwater can escape.
    If it fails
    Blocked drains cause damp door cards months later. Ask for them to be cleared and recorded now.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Pillar trim and window surrounds seated Cosmetic

    How to check
    Check the black trim around the window frames and B-pillar on both sides for lifting edges, scratches or a milky film.
    Expected outcome
    Trim lies flat against the body, with no lifting corners, deep scratches or cloudy patches.
    If it fails
    Lifting trim will only get worse at motorway speed. Have it reseated or replaced before you accept the car.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

7. Wheels, tyres and underbody

Kerb rash and tyre defects are easy to miss and hard to claim later. Check all four corners deliberately.

Where to stand: Crouched at each wheel, then looking under the sills

  • All four wheels free of kerb damage Essential Cosmetic

    How to check
    Crouch at each wheel and rotate your view around the full rim edge, including the inner face you cannot see standing up.
    Expected outcome
    No kerb rash, gouges, flat spots on the rim lip or corrosion on any of the four wheels.
    If it fails
    Photograph each damaged wheel with the wheel position noted. Kerb damage after handover is almost impossible to attribute.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Aero covers, centre caps and lug covers complete Cosmetic

    How to check
    Check that every aero cover, centre cap and lug nut cover is fitted, matching and fully seated.
    Expected outcome
    All covers are present, aligned, of the same design, and none is cracked or already loose.
    If it fails
    Missing lug covers are cheap but never arrive on their own. Ask for them at handover and get it written down.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Tyre brand, size and load rating consistent on all four Administrative

    How to check
    Read the full sidewall marking on each tyre, including width, profile, diameter, load index and speed rating, and compare with the door jamb label.
    Expected outcome
    All four tyres match each other and the vehicle placard, apart from a legitimate staggered front and rear fitment.
    If it fails
    A mismatched tyre on a new car is a supply error and can affect insurance and roadworthiness. Have it corrected before delivery.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Tyres free of cuts, bulges and tread damage Essential Safety

    How to check
    Run your hand and eye around each sidewall, inner and outer, and across the tread. Look for cuts, bulges, embedded objects and flat spots from long storage.
    Expected outcome
    Sidewalls are smooth with no bulges or cuts, and the tread is undamaged with full depth across the width.
    If it fails
    A sidewall bulge means the tyre is scrap. Refuse to drive on it and require replacement before you leave.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Tyre pressures match the placard and TPMS agrees Essential Safety

    How to check
    Measure each tyre with your own gauge on cold tyres, then compare all four with the door jamb placard and with the pressures shown on the vehicle screen.
    Expected outcome
    Measured pressures are close to the placard value and the screen readings agree with your gauge within a small tolerance.
    If it fails
    Adjust the pressures before you drive. A sensor that disagrees with a manual measurement is itself a defect to log.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Tyre production date codes recent and consistent Administrative

    How to check
    Find the four-digit code at the end of the DOT marking on each sidewall: the week and year of manufacture. Read all four.
    Expected outcome
    All four dates are close together and recent relative to the vehicle build. Rubber ages even unused.
    If it fails
    Query a tyre noticeably older than the others, and record the codes in the report even when everything looks normal.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Brake discs free of deep scoring and heavy corrosion Functional

    How to check
    Look through the wheel spokes at the disc faces. Surface rust after storage is normal and wipes off; deep grooves and pitted rust are not.
    Expected outcome
    Discs show at most a light surface film that will clear on the drive home, with no deep scoring or flaking rust.
    If it fails
    Photograph a heavily corroded disc and ask for it to be assessed before you accept the vehicle.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Underbody panels and wheel arch liners secure Functional

    How to check
    Look under the front, the sills and the rear with a torch. Check the aero panels and the plastic wheel arch liners for hanging edges or missing fasteners.
    Expected outcome
    Panels are flat against the floor, all fasteners are present, and there is no deep scrape from a ramp or a transporter.
    If it fails
    A hanging aero panel becomes a motorway hazard. Have it refastened and recorded before delivery.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

8. Frunk, boot and charge port

Open every compartment. Water ingress and missing equipment are found here, not on the outside.

Where to stand: At the front trunk, then the boot, then the charge port

  • Front trunk opens, closes and latches Functional

    How to check
    Open the front trunk from the screen and the app, close it as the manual describes, and confirm it latches on the first attempt.
    Expected outcome
    The lid releases cleanly, closes with the documented method and stays latched with no warning on the screen.
    If it fails
    Do not force a stiff lid. Ask the delivery team to demonstrate the correct closing method, then retest.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Front trunk dry, clean and drains clear Essential Functional

    How to check
    Feel the bottom of the front trunk with your hand and check the corners and any drain openings for standing water, damp carpet or debris.
    Expected outcome
    The compartment is completely dry, the liner is intact and the drains are unobstructed.
    If it fails
    Water in the frunk means a seal or drain problem, not a cleaning problem. Photograph and raise a service ticket before delivery.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Boot well dry, seal seated, no water line Functional

    How to check
    Lift the boot floor and the underfloor bins, feel the lowest points, and look at the aperture seal for a gap, twist or dirty water line.
    Expected outcome
    Everything under the floor is dry and clean, and the seal is continuous all the way round the aperture.
    If it fails
    A tide mark under the boot floor is evidence of a leak. Photograph it before anyone dries it and insist on a service ticket.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Boot trim, parcel cover and bins complete Cosmetic

    How to check
    Check the side trims, the load cover or parcel shelf and any underfloor bins and lids are present, undamaged and correctly clipped.
    Expected outcome
    All trim panels and bins are fitted, unmarked and secure, and the load cover operates and stows correctly.
    If it fails
    Missing bins and covers are order items, not defects. Get them supplied and written into the handover form.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Legally required on-board equipment for your country Administrative

    How to check
    Check what your country requires to be carried — commonly a warning triangle and high-visibility vest, and in some countries a first aid kit — and confirm what is actually in the car.
    Expected outcome
    The equipment required where you will drive is present, in date and accessible without unloading the boot.
    If it fails
    Requirements differ by country and change over time. Verify against your national rules and buy what is missing before you drive.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Tow eye and any supplied repair kit present Administrative

    How to check
    Look in the underfloor storage for the screw-in tow eye and any tyre repair kit or compressor supplied with the vehicle.
    Expected outcome
    The tow eye is present, and any kit listed in your delivery documentation is in the car.
    If it fails
    A missing tow eye is only discovered when you need a recovery. Have it supplied at handover.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Charge port door opens, closes and lights up Essential Functional

    How to check
    Open the charge port door from the screen, the app and by pressing the door itself, then close it. Check the port light illuminates.
    Expected outcome
    The door opens and closes cleanly by all methods, sits flush when closed, and the status light works.
    If it fails
    A charge door that will not close leaves the port exposed to rain and dirt. Treat it as a functional defect and log it.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Charge port contacts clean and undamaged Safety

    How to check
    With the door open, look into the charge port with a torch. Check the pins, the housing and the locking mechanism.
    Expected outcome
    Pins are straight, unmarked and free of discolouration; the housing is undamaged and free of moisture or debris.
    If it fails
    Damaged or discoloured contacts are a fire risk under high current. Do not fast charge and require inspection before you leave.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

9. Front cabin

Sit in the driver seat. Work from the seat outwards: seat, belt, trim, controls, glass.

Where to stand: In the driver seat, then the front passenger seat

  • Front seats adjust on every axis Functional

    How to check
    Move both front seats through their full travel: forward and back, height, recline and lumbar. Listen for grinding or clicking.
    Expected outcome
    Every axis moves smoothly to both extremes without noise, and the seat holds position when you sit down firmly.
    If it fails
    Note which seat and which axis. A single failing motor is a straightforward warranty repair if it is recorded now.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Seat surfaces free of marks, creases and stitching faults Cosmetic

    How to check
    Look across both front seat cushions and backrests at an angle, including the outer bolster where you slide in and out.
    Expected outcome
    No scuffs, transfer marks, permanent creases, loose threads or uneven stitching.
    If it fails
    Photograph immediately. Once you have used the seat, attributing a mark to delivery becomes very difficult.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Seat heating, and ventilation if fitted, work Functional

    How to check
    Switch on heating for both front seats at maximum and wait a minute. If your car has ventilated seats, run those too.
    Expected outcome
    Both seats warm noticeably and evenly, and ventilation moves air where fitted.
    If it fails
    Seat heating faults often only appear in winter. Test now and record any seat that stays cold.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Front seat belts extend, latch and retract correctly Essential Safety

    How to check
    Pull each front belt out to full length, inspect the webbing for cuts or twists, latch it firmly, tug sharply to feel the locking mechanism engage, then release and let it retract.
    Expected outcome
    The webbing is undamaged, the buckle latches with a positive click, a sharp pull locks the belt, and it retracts fully on its own.
    If it fails
    A seat belt fault is a safety defect. Do not accept the vehicle until it is repaired or you have written confirmation of the repair plan.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • No airbag, restraint or fault warning displayed Essential Safety

    How to check
    With the car awake, read the whole screen carefully, including any alert badge or notification list, and check that the airbag covers are seated and unmarked.
    Expected outcome
    No airbag or restraint warning, no service alert, and every airbag cover is flush and intact.
    If it fails
    An airbag or restraint warning is a stop condition. Do not complete handover until it is cleared or formally documented.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Steering wheel adjusts and heats where fitted Functional

    How to check
    Adjust the column for reach and height, check the wheel trim and scroll buttons, and switch on the heated wheel if your car has one.
    Expected outcome
    The column moves smoothly and holds position, the wheel rim is unmarked, and the heating warms the rim evenly.
    If it fails
    Note whether the fault is adjustment, heating or a trim mark; they are separate line items on a repair order.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Indicator, wiper and gear controls behave as documented Functional

    How to check
    Learn where your car puts these controls before you judge them: depending on model and model year they may be column stalks or steering wheel buttons, with gear selection on the screen. Operate each one.
    Expected outcome
    Every control responds first time with the feedback described in the owner manual for your model year.
    If it fails
    Do not log a working control as a defect just because it differs from an older car. Check the manual, then record only genuine failures.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Front wipers and washers clear the screen Essential Safety

    How to check
    Run the washers and let the wipers complete several sweeps at each speed. Watch from inside and check the swept area.
    Expected outcome
    Both jets reach the glass, the blades clear water without streaking or judder, and the parked position is correct.
    If it fails
    A smearing blade on a new car should simply be replaced. Ask at handover rather than buying blades yourself.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Dashboard, door cards and trim aligned and unmarked Cosmetic

    How to check
    Run your eye and a fingertip along the dash top, the trim inserts and both front door cards, checking joints and edges.
    Expected outcome
    Panels meet with even joints, nothing rattles when tapped, and there are no scratches, dents or fitting marks.
    If it fails
    Note the exact panel. Interior trim is normally replaced rather than repaired, so precision matters on the handover form.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Glass roof intact, sealed and correctly trimmed Safety

    How to check
    Look up at the full glass area from inside, then from outside, checking the edges, the bonded seal and the headliner trim around it.
    Expected outcome
    No chips or cracks, no water marks on the headliner edge, and the surrounding trim is flush all the way round.
    If it fails
    A chip in a bonded glass roof usually means replacement. Photograph it now and open a service request before delivery completes.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • USB ports, wireless charging and 12 V socket power a device Functional

    How to check
    Plug your phone into each front USB port and confirm it charges, place it on each wireless pad, and if there is a 12 V socket, test it with an accessory.
    Expected outcome
    Every port charges, each wireless pad starts charging within a few seconds, and the 12 V socket powers an accessory.
    If it fails
    Test every port individually; a single dead port is common and easily missed if you only try one.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Glovebox, console lids, visors and interior lighting Functional

    How to check
    Open the glovebox from the screen, operate every console lid and cupholder, fold both sun visors including the vanity mirrors and lights, and cycle the interior and footwell lighting.
    Expected outcome
    Every lid opens and closes positively, visors hold position, and all interior lights respond to the screen controls.
    If it fails
    These are small items but each is a separate part. List them individually so none is forgotten at the service visit.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • No protective film residue, adhesive or unusual odour Cosmetic

    How to check
    Check under the seats, along the sills and behind the pedals for leftover protective film, tape or packaging, and note any strong smell.
    Expected outcome
    All transport protection has been removed, no adhesive remains on trim, and there is no damp or chemical odour.
    If it fails
    A persistent damp smell can indicate a water leak rather than a cleaning miss. Ask for it to be investigated, not just aired.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Floor mats present, correct and properly secured Administrative

    How to check
    Check the mats supplied match your order and market, and confirm the driver mat is anchored so it cannot slide under the pedals.
    Expected outcome
    Mats are the correct type, fit the footwell, and the driver mat is fixed to its retaining points.
    If it fails
    An unsecured driver mat is a pedal obstruction risk. Fix it before you drive, and request any missing mats at handover.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

10. Rear cabin

The rear bench is the least inspected area and a common place for transport marks.

Where to stand: Sitting on the rear bench, doors open

  • Rear seat surfaces clean and unmarked Cosmetic

    How to check
    Sit on the rear bench and look across the cushions, backrests and outer bolsters at an angle, then check the sill trim where people step in.
    Expected outcome
    No transport dirt, scuffs, transfer marks or damaged stitching anywhere on the bench.
    If it fails
    Photograph before anyone cleans it. Cleaning can hide a scuff without repairing it.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Every rear seat belt extends, latches and retracts Essential Safety

    How to check
    Test each rear belt in turn: full extension, webbing inspection, positive latch in the correct buckle, sharp tug to feel it lock, then full retraction.
    Expected outcome
    Every rear belt, including the centre position, works completely and retracts without help.
    If it fails
    A belt that will not retract or latch is a safety defect. Have it repaired or formally recorded before you accept the vehicle.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Child seat anchor points present and accessible Safety

    How to check
    Locate the lower anchor points between the seat cushion and backrest, and the top tether points, and check the covers and labels are in place.
    Expected outcome
    All anchor points are present, correctly labelled, undamaged and reachable without tools.
    If it fails
    If you use a child seat, fit it before you leave the site so that any clearance problem is found while help is available.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Manual door releases and child locks work Safety

    How to check
    Read where the manual release is on your model, then operate the rear door manual release from inside and check the child lock function.
    Expected outcome
    Each rear door can be opened manually from inside, and the child lock engages and disengages as described in the manual.
    If it fails
    Learn this before you need it. If a release does not work, treat it as a safety defect and do not carry passengers in that seat.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Rear seat backs fold and latch positively Functional

    How to check
    Fold each rear backrest section down and raise it again until it locks. Push firmly on the top of the backrest to confirm it is latched.
    Expected outcome
    Each section folds without force and latches with an audible click and no movement when pushed.
    If it fails
    An unlatched backrest is a load-restraint failure in a collision. Do not carry rear passengers until it is fixed.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Rear vents, controls and USB ports work Functional

    How to check
    Set the climate to a high fan speed and feel airflow from every rear vent, then charge a phone from each rear USB port and test any rear screen or controls.
    Expected outcome
    Air flows from all rear vents, every rear port charges, and any rear display responds normally.
    If it fails
    Log the specific vent or port. A single blocked vent can indicate a disconnected duct behind the console.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

11. Screen, app and connectivity

Software faults are as expensive as body faults and far easier to prove on the day.

Where to stand: In the driver seat with your phone in hand

  • No fault, service or restraint alerts on the screen Essential Safety

    How to check
    Open the notification or alerts area on the touchscreen and read every entry, including any that have already been dismissed.
    Expected outcome
    There are no active vehicle alerts, no service messages and no restraint or drive system warnings.
    If it fails
    Photograph the alert text exactly. An alert dismissed by the delivery team is still an alert; insist it is recorded before signature.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Touchscreen responds across its whole surface Functional

    How to check
    Drag a finger slowly across the full screen, corner to corner, and watch for dead zones. Look at the display at an angle for backlight bleed, dead pixels or a lifted edge.
    Expected outcome
    Touch registers everywhere with no lag, the image is even, and the glass is unmarked and seated flush in its surround.
    If it fails
    A dead zone or a bright edge is a display replacement. Record it now: a screen fault becomes hard to distinguish from later handling damage.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Software version recorded and no update stuck Administrative

    How to check
    Open the software information page, note the version string, and check whether an update is pending, downloading or failed.
    Expected outcome
    A version is displayed, and there is no failed or indefinitely stalled update.
    If it fails
    Record the version in your report. It is the reference point if a feature behaves differently after the first over-the-air update.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Every exterior camera shows a clear, correct image Essential Safety

    How to check
    Open the camera view and cycle through all available views: rear, both sides and any front view. Compare sharpness and framing between them.
    Expected outcome
    Every camera produces a sharp, correctly oriented image with no fog, water ingress, black frame or error message.
    If it fails
    A camera fault degrades reversing and driver assistance. Photograph the screen showing the faulty view and require a service ticket.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Dashcam and Sentry storage recognised and recording Functional

    How to check
    Insert a compatible USB drive formatted as the manual requires, enable the recording features and confirm the recording indicator appears.
    Expected outcome
    The drive is recognised, recording starts, and a saved clip can be played back.
    If it fails
    Try a second drive before logging a fault; most Sentry storage problems are the drive, not the car.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Audio plays cleanly from every speaker Functional

    How to check
    Play music and use the balance and fade controls to move the sound to each corner in turn, listening for distortion, rattles or silence.
    Expected outcome
    Every speaker produces clean sound at moderate and high volume with no buzzing from the door trim.
    If it fails
    Note which corner is affected. A rattle at high volume is often trim, not the speaker, and both are covered.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Microphone works for calls and voice commands Functional

    How to check
    Make a short hands-free call, or use a voice command, and ask the other person whether you are clear.
    Expected outcome
    Your voice is transmitted clearly without echo, clipping or dropouts, and voice commands are recognised.
    If it fails
    A weak microphone is easy to overlook and hard to prove later. Test it on the day and log it if it is unclear.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Mobile data, Wi-Fi and maps load Functional

    How to check
    Check the connectivity indicator, connect to a Wi-Fi network if one is available, and pan and zoom the map to force it to load fresh tiles.
    Expected outcome
    The car reports a mobile connection, Wi-Fi connects, and map tiles load promptly without an offline message.
    If it fails
    Distinguish a weak signal at that specific site from a vehicle fault. Retest elsewhere before logging a defect.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • GPS position and heading are correct Functional

    How to check
    Look at the vehicle marker on the map and confirm it is at your actual location and pointing the right way. Walk the car forward a few metres if you can.
    Expected outcome
    The position is accurate to the parking area and the heading updates as the car moves.
    If it fails
    A position stuck far from reality is an antenna or module fault. Log it: navigation and several assistance features depend on it.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Phone key pairs and locks and unlocks reliably Essential Functional

    How to check
    Set up your phone as a key, then walk away from the car until it locks, and walk back until it unlocks. Repeat once.
    Expected outcome
    The car locks and unlocks reliably as you approach and leave, without needing the app to be open in the foreground.
    If it fails
    Check phone Bluetooth permissions and battery-saver settings before logging a vehicle fault; both commonly cause this.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • All supplied key cards received and each one works Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Count the key cards handed to you and test every single one on the door pillar reader and on the console reader.
    Expected outcome
    You receive the number of cards stated in your delivery documentation, and each card locks, unlocks and authorises driving.
    If it fails
    Do not leave with fewer cards than documented. Replacement cards have to be ordered and paired later.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Vehicle appears in your app account with full control Administrative

    How to check
    Open the mobile app and confirm the vehicle is listed under your own account, then use it to lock, unlock and start climate control.
    Expected outcome
    The vehicle shows under your account and responds to remote commands within a few seconds.
    If it fails
    If the car is still linked to a previous account or shows read-only access, resolve it before leaving; it is an account matter, not a repair.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Climate control heats, cools and demists Functional

    How to check
    Set the temperature to minimum and wait for cold air, then to maximum and wait for hot air, and run the windscreen defrost function.
    Expected outcome
    Both extremes are reached within a few minutes, airflow comes from the selected vents, and defrost directs air to the windscreen.
    If it fails
    Test both heating and cooling, whatever the season. Half of climate faults are only found on the side you did not try.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

12. Charging and accessories

Regional equipment varies. Check what your market and order actually include before you leave.

Where to stand: At the charge port and in the boot

  • Charging cable or mobile connector supplied as ordered Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Check your order and delivery documentation for which charging equipment is included, then find it in the car and open the case.
    Expected outcome
    Every charging item listed in your paperwork is physically in the vehicle, complete with its case and adapters.
    If it fails
    What is included varies by market, model year and order. Compare against your own documents, not against what a forum says.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • European connector standard matches your charging setup Functional

    How to check
    Check that the AC cable and the vehicle inlet use the connector standard used by public charge points in your country, and that any domestic plug adapter fits your sockets.
    Expected outcome
    The cable connects to the public charge points you plan to use and to your home socket type.
    If it fails
    Buy or request the correct adapter before you rely on it. Do not assume an adapter is included because it was on a previous car.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • North American adapters match the networks you will use Functional

    How to check
    Check which adapters came with the car and compare them with the connector types used by the public networks and the home outlet you plan to charge from.
    Expected outcome
    You can physically connect to your home outlet and to the public networks you intend to use.
    If it fails
    Order any missing adapter before your first trip rather than discovering the gap at a charger with a low battery.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Charging cable, plug and pins undamaged Safety

    How to check
    Unroll the whole cable and run it through your hands. Inspect both connector ends for bent pins, discolouration, cracks or a damaged strain relief.
    Expected outcome
    The insulation is intact along the full length and both connectors are clean, straight and undamaged.
    If it fails
    A damaged charging cable is an electrical hazard. Do not use it; request a replacement before you leave.
    Source
    Roadworthiness or regulatory requirement · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • An AC charging session starts and reaches expected power Functional

    How to check
    If a charge point is available at the site, plug in and let the session start. Watch the power figure on the screen settle.
    Expected outcome
    Charging starts within a minute, the connector locks, and the power is in the range you would expect for that charge point.
    If it fails
    If you cannot test on site, test at home the same day and report a fault quickly; charging faults are a high priority repair.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • A DC fast charging session starts if a charger is nearby Functional

    How to check
    On your way home, stop at a fast charger, start a short session and watch the power ramp up and the session appear in the app.
    Expected outcome
    The session authorises and starts, the power rises normally for the state of charge, and the session records correctly.
    If it fails
    Report a fast charging failure the same day. Distinguish a faulty charge point from a vehicle fault by trying a second stall.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Ordered accessories delivered with the vehicle Administrative

    How to check
    List the accessories on your order — mats, boot liner, wall connector, roof bars — and check each one physically before you sign.
    Expected outcome
    Every accessory that was billed is in the car or has a documented delivery date.
    If it fails
    Accessories ordered with a car are frequently forgotten at handover. Get an outstanding item written down with a date.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

13. Short road test

Ten minutes of driving reveals faults no static inspection can. Ask before driving off the site.

Where to stand: Driving, ideally on a quiet road with a rough patch

  • Agree a short drive before completing handover Administrative

    How to check
    Ask whether you can take a ten minute drive, ideally including a rough surface and a stretch where you can safely reach normal traffic speed, before the paperwork is closed.
    Expected outcome
    You are able to drive the car and return before finalising, or you are told clearly that this is not possible.
    If it fails
    If a pre-signature drive is refused, note that in the report and drive attentively on the way home, documenting anything you find the same day.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Steering wheel centred and the car tracks straight Essential Safety

    How to check
    On a straight, flat road with light hands on the wheel, note whether the wheel is level when the car goes straight and whether the car drifts to one side.
    Expected outcome
    The wheel sits level when travelling straight and the car holds its line without constant correction.
    If it fails
    Note the road and the direction of pull; road camber can mimic a pull. Have an alignment check recorded if it repeats on both directions of travel.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Braking is smooth, straight and quiet Essential Safety

    How to check
    On a clear, safe stretch of road, brake progressively from moderate speed several times, then once more firmly, feeling the pedal and watching the line the car takes.
    Expected outcome
    The car stops straight, the pedal is firm and consistent, and there is no pulsing, grinding or squealing after the first few stops.
    If it fails
    Light surface rust noise on the first stops is normal. Persistent pulsing or pulling is a safety defect: stop and report it before completing handover.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • No vibration through the wheel, seat or floor Safety

    How to check
    At a steady legal cruising speed on a smooth road, rest your hands lightly on the wheel and pay attention to the seat and floor.
    Expected outcome
    No rhythmic vibration that rises and falls with speed, which would typically indicate a wheel balance or tyre problem.
    If it fails
    Note the speed at which it appears; that number is what a technician needs to reproduce it. Ask for a wheel balance check.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • No knocks, rattles or wind noise Functional

    How to check
    Drive part of the route with the audio off and the windows closed, over a rough surface and then at speed. Listen to each corner of the car in turn.
    Expected outcome
    No knocking over bumps, no interior rattles and no whistling from door or window seals.
    If it fails
    Describe where the noise comes from and when it happens. A vague "there is a noise" is the hardest defect to get repaired.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Suspension absorbs bumps without clunking Functional

    How to check
    Drive slowly over a speed bump or a broken surface, with the windows down, and listen to each corner.
    Expected outcome
    The car settles in one movement and there is no metallic clunk from any corner.
    If it fails
    A clunk on one side only is a strong signal. Note which corner and at what speed, and request an inspection.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Driver assistance engages without camera or radar faults Functional

    How to check
    Where road and traffic conditions allow and local rules permit, engage the driver assistance features your car has and watch for calibration or camera messages.
    Expected outcome
    The features engage as documented for your model, with no camera calibration or obstruction message.
    If it fails
    A calibration message shortly after delivery often needs a service visit. Stay in full control at all times and report the message.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Parking view and distance guidance behave sensibly Functional

    How to check
    Reverse slowly towards a wall or a kerb in an empty part of the car park and watch the reversing view and any distance indication.
    Expected outcome
    The view appears immediately when you select reverse and the distance indication changes consistently as you approach.
    If it fails
    Do not rely on the display while testing; use your mirrors and your eyes. Log any view that fails to appear or freezes.
    Source
    Owner manual · Reviewed 2026-08-20

14. Handover decision

Close the inspection properly. What is written down today is what gets fixed later.

Where to stand: Back at the desk, before signing

  • Every issue written onto the official handover document Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Go through your issue list with the delivery advisor and confirm that each one is written on the official handover or delivery document, in specific terms.
    Expected outcome
    Each issue appears with its location and description, not summarised as a single generic line.
    If it fails
    What is not written down today is normally treated as damage that happened afterwards. Insist on specific wording.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Do not sign a defect-free statement when defects exist Essential Administrative

    How to check
    Read what you are about to sign. If the document states that the vehicle was accepted without reservation, check that this matches what you actually found.
    Expected outcome
    The document you sign reflects the real condition of the vehicle, including every reservation you raised.
    If it fails
    Ask for the wording to be amended before signing. This tool cannot give legal advice; if you are unsure, take time or seek advice locally.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • A service request opened for each open defect Administrative

    How to check
    Use the mobile app to open a service request for each defect that is not being fixed on the spot, attaching your photos and the item description.
    Expected outcome
    Each open defect has its own request with a reference number visible in the app.
    If it fails
    One request per defect, not one request listing everything: bundled requests get partially closed.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Registration, warranty and manual access confirmed Administrative

    How to check
    Confirm how and when the registration documents will reach you, where the warranty terms are recorded, and how to reach the owner manual in the car and online.
    Expected outcome
    You know the expected date for each document and can open the owner manual on the vehicle screen.
    If it fails
    Write down the promised dates. Registration paperwork is the most common thing to chase after a delivery.
    Source
    Manufacturer delivery guidance · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • You keep a copy of everything you signed Administrative

    How to check
    Before you leave, take a photo or ask for a copy of every document you signed, including the page listing the defects.
    Expected outcome
    You hold a legible copy of every signed page, with the defect list visible.
    If it fails
    Take the photo yourself, on the spot. A promised email copy is not the same as one you already have.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

  • Agreed next action and a second inspection planned Administrative

    How to check
    Agree who does what and by when for each open defect, then plan to re-inspect the car yourself at home in good light within the first week.
    Expected outcome
    Each open item has an owner and a date, and you have a reminder set for your own second inspection.
    If it fails
    Export this report and keep it with the signed paperwork so the second inspection starts from a written baseline.
    Source
    Established delivery inspection practice · Reviewed 2026-08-20

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Model 3 inspection take?

About ten minutes for the essential path, and about twenty-five to thirty minutes for the complete path including a short drive.

Are the checks different from the Model Y list?

Mostly shared, with real differences. Model Y specific checks such as the rear wiper and the powered tailgate do not appear here, and the boot and rear glass checks are worded for a saloon.

The indicator controls are not where I expected. Is that a defect?

Probably not. The control layout differs between model years. Check the owner manual for your model year first, and only record a defect if a control genuinely does not respond.

Do I need mobile signal to use this?

Only for the first load. After that the app and the checklist content are cached on your device and work with the network switched off.

How do I keep a copy of the report?

Print it, save it as a PDF from the print dialogue, or download the JSON backup. The JSON file can be imported back into the tool on the same or another device.

Is my VIN shared with anyone?

No. The VIN is stored only on your device and is masked by default in the exported report. Nothing about your inspection is transmitted anywhere.