Common PDI Frauds in India: Here's How Dealerships Can Fool You!

Common PDI Frauds in India: Buying a new car remains a precioius and memorable moments for Indian families, but it can turn frustrating if you are unaware of deceptive practices during the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) process. In India, while many dealerships operate honestly, some exploit the PDI to hide vehicle issues or boost profits. This article discusses the common PDI frauds and offers practical advice to safeguard consumers. Before moving ahead, make sure you join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.

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PDI and Its Importance

The Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) is a vital quality check conducted by dealerships to ensure a car is in top condition before it reaches the customer. It covers the vehicle's exterior, interior, mechanical systems, and paperwork. However, certain dealerships may skip proper checks or conceal defects to sell substandard cars. Below are widespread PDI frauds in India and ways to detect them.

Common PDI Frauds in India

1. Substituting Parts Post-PDI

Some dealerships replace high-quality components, like tires or alloy wheels, with lower-grade ones after the PDI. For example, a customer might see premium tires during inspection, only to find cheaper ones at delivery. This switch often goes unnoticed, as dealers bank on customers not rechecking the vehicle.

To avoid this, take photos or videos during the PDI, noting details like tire brands and rims. Compare these at delivery to confirm nothing has changed. Request a second inspection if you suspect any tampering.

2. Concealing Pre-Existing Damage

Certain dealerships deliver cars with minor issues, such as scratches, misaligned panels, or repainted surfaces, without informing buyers. Some vehicles may have sustained damage during transport or storage, with dealers making quick, superficial repairs to avoid returning them to the manufacturer.

Use a Digital Film Thickness (DFT) meter to detect repainted areas, as they often show uneven paint layers. Check for panel gaps, misaligned bumpers, or water in headlights, which may signal prior damage. Ask about the car's transport and storage history for clarity.

3. Odometer Tampering

A few dealers manipulate odometers to display lower mileage, creating the illusion of a barely-driven car. This is common with unregistered vehicles transferred between dealerships, misleading buyers about the car's condition.

During PDI, ensure the odometer reads under 100 km for a new car. Question any unusually high mileage. Cross-reference with service records or transport logs if possible.

4. Selling Flood-Damaged or Accident-Prone Vehicles

In rare cases, dealerships may sell flood-damaged or accident-repaired cars as new. These vehicles can have hidden structural or electrical problems, posing safety and performance risks.

Inspect the underbody for rust, especially in cars stored in open yards prone to waterlogging. Look for water stains, musty smells, or faulty electronics, which may indicate flood damage. Take a test drive to check for unusual noises, vibrations, or warning lights that could suggest prior accidents.

5. Pressuring Buyers into Expensive Insurance or Accessories

Dealerships often push overpriced insurance policies or accessories to earn high commissions. Some may claim these purchases are mandatory or will speed up delivery, particularly for popular models.

Research insurance options independently and compare them with the dealer's offers, as you are not required to buy from them. Be cautious of policies with hidden clauses, like mandatory deductibles, which increase claim costs. Decline unnecessary accessories and consider switching dealerships if pressured to buy them for faster delivery.

6. Blocking Third-Party PDI Services

Third-party PDI services provide unbiased inspections, but some dealerships disallow them, citing internal rules. This can be a warning sign, suggesting they may be hiding defects.

Hire a third-party PDI expert, who uses specialized tools for detailed reports. If a dealer refuses third-party inspections, consider finding another dealership. Check online reviews or forums to gauge the dealer's trustworthiness.

Tips for Conducting Your Own PDI

If you opt to do your own PDI, follow this checklist for a comprehensive inspection:

• Check for scratches, dents, mismatched paint, and uniform panel gaps on the exterior.
• Ensure all tires (including spare) are new, same brand, and have undamaged rims.
• Verify headlights, bumpers, mirrors, and windshields are properly aligned and scratch-free.
• Inspect seats, dashboard, carpets, and roof lining for stains or damage; test seat adjustments and seat belts.
• Test all electronics: lights, horn, wipers, power windows, infotainment, AC, and heater.
• Look under the hood for oil leaks, rust, loose wires, and ensure all fluid levels are adequate.
• Take a test drive to spot vibrations, noises, or warning lights; collect all documents like invoice, insurance, RC, and PDI checklist.

How to Dodge Dealer Tricks

Stay informed by researching your car model and common issues on car forums or social media. Document the PDI with photos or videos to have proof of the cars condition. If you uncover fraud after delivery, seek recourse through consumer courts, as some buyers have secured compensation. Choose dealerships with strong reputations and transparent practices. Stand firm against pressure to buy unnecessary insurance or accessories, and walk away if the dealer seems untrustworthy.

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