Taking delivery of your new vehicle should be one of the most exciting parts of the car-buying process. However, after the stress of negotiations and financing, many buyers rush through delivery day without carefully reviewing the vehicle, paperwork, and features before driving away. Here are some key points to keep in mind on the day of your vehicle delivery.
New Vehicle Delivery Checklist
1. Review All Final Paperwork Carefully
Before signing anything on delivery day, review the final bill of sale and financing documents one last time. Make sure:
the agreed purchase price is correct
the interest rate matches what was promised
optional products you declined have not reappeared
trade-in credits are accurate
warranties and protection packages are listed properly
Mistakes can happen, and some buyers only notice unexpected charges after they return home.
2. Inspect the Exterior Thoroughly
Walk around the vehicle slowly and carefully. Look for:
scratches
dents
paint imperfections
wheel damage
windshield chips
uneven panel gaps
New vehicles can sometimes be damaged during shipping, dealer preparation, or while sitting on the lot. Once you drive away, proving the damage was already there becomes much more difficult.
3. Check the Interior Condition
Inspect the seats, dashboard, trim pieces, carpets, and headliner. Make sure there are:
no stains
no tears or scuffs
no missing trim pieces
no warning lights illuminated
Also confirm that all electronic systems are functioning properly, including:
heated seats
infotainment system
backup camera
climate controls
power windows and locks
4. Confirm All Accessories Are Included
Many buyers purchase additional accessories during the sales process. Before leaving the dealership, confirm that all promised items have been installed or included, such as:
winter mats
cargo liners
roof racks
upgraded wheels
towing equipment
paint protection
remote starters
If an item is backordered, ask for written confirmation of when it will be provided.
5. Make Sure You Receive Both Sets of Keys
Modern vehicle keys are expensive to replace, often costing hundreds of dollars each. Ensure you receive:
both key fobs
valet keys if applicable
wheel lock keys
remote starter remotes
security system information
Do not assume the second key will automatically be mailed later unless you have that promise documented in writing.
6. Ask for a Full Feature Demonstration
A good sales professional should walk you through:
Bluetooth pairing
navigation functions
driver assistance systems
cruise control settings
charging features for EVs or hybrids
seat memory functions
safety technologies
Today’s vehicles contain advanced technology that many owners never fully learn to use. If the salesperson seems rushed, ask questions and take your time. You paid for the vehicle — and the delivery experience.
7. Verify Registration, Insurance, and Ownership Documents
Before driving away, confirm:
ownership paperwork is complete
insurance information is correct
licence plates are properly attached
temporary permits are valid if applicable
Simple administrative errors can create major headaches later.
8. Understand Your Service and Maintenance Requirements
Before leaving the dealership, ask:
when your first service appointment is due
what maintenance is required
how warranty coverage works
whether roadside assistance is included
This is also a good opportunity to understand which maintenance items are genuinely required versus optional upsells that may be recommended later.
Delivery day should feel exciting — not rushed or confusing. By slowing down, carefully reviewing the vehicle, and asking questions when something seems unclear, you can avoid many of the problems that frustrate car buyers after the sale is complete.
Pro tip: Keep this delivery list handy on your mobile device and use it as a checklist in your final visit to the finance office.
