New Vehicle PDI & Lot Readiness Checklist

This new vehicle PDI and lot readiness checklist ensures every new vehicle arriving from transport is properly prepared for dealer lot display and customer delivery. Covers transport damage documentation, protective packaging removal, OEM software activation, Monroney label compliance, and dealer accessory installation per OEM franchise dealer standards. Complete this checklist for every new vehicle arrival before lot placement or customer delivery scheduling.

Industry: Automotive Dealership
Frequency: Per New Vehicle Arrival
Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
Role: PDI Technician / New Car Manager / Dealership Porter
Total Items: 28
Compliance: OEM Franchise Dealer PDI Requirements, Monroney Labeling Act (15 U.S.C. 1231-1233), NHTSA New Vehicle Transport Damage Claims, NADA Franchise Dealer Standards, NMVTIS Vehicle Title Standards

Transport Damage Inspection

Document all transport damage before removing protective packaging. Once packaging is removed, transport vs. dealer damage becomes difficult to prove.

All transport protection film, plugs, and packaging documented before removal?
All four sides, roof, and glass inspected for transport damage before deprotection?
Any transport damage found reported to carrier/OEM transport damage claim within required timeframe?
Underbody checked for transport tie-down strap damage or road debris?
Wheels and tires free of transport damage, flat spots, or shipping cradle marks?

Deprotection & Preparation

Remove all transport protective materials and prepare vehicle for lot display.

All factory paint protection film removed without residue or adhesive remaining?
All interior protective film removed from screens, trim, and seat surfaces?
All trunk foam blocks, cargo protectors, and shipping brackets removed?
Shipping wheel locks or blocks removed and wheel lock key stored in vehicle?
Battery fully charged (above 12.4V static, 13.8V+ running) after extended storage?
All fluid levels verified correct (oil, coolant, brake, washer)?

Feature Activation & Software

Activate required features, update software, and pair dealer demo accounts before lot placement.

OEM infotainment and vehicle software updated to current version?
Connected services trial (WiFi, remote app, OTA updates) activated per OEM procedure?
Demo/dealer account configured for customer test drives (not personal account)?
All ADAS and safety systems functional and no fault codes after software update?
All major features tested and functional (windows, sunroof, heated seats, ADAS, audio)?
Fuel tank filled or at required level per dealer policy (many OEMs require full tank at delivery)?

Compliance & Documentation

Verify all legally required labels and documents are present and compliant.

Monroney label (MSRP sticker) intact and affixed to window?
EPA fuel economy label present (affixed to window or available)?
Dealer addendum sticker prepared with all dealer-installed accessories itemized?
NHTSA recall check performed - no open recalls on brand new vehicle?
VIN verified matching on dashboard, door jamb, title, and invoice?

Detail, Lot Placement & Final Readiness

Final preparation before vehicle is placed on retail lot.

New vehicle detail completed (wash, tire dressing, interior wipe-down)?
Paint inspected under detail light - no swirls, transport scratches, or overspray?
Stock number displayed on vehicle (visor placard, license plate area, or lot sign)?
Keys tagged and secured in key control system?
Vehicle entered into dealer inventory management system with accurate specs and photos?
Vehicle positioned on lot per merchandising plan (high-traffic area for featured vehicles)?

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Why Use This New Vehicle PDI & Lot Readiness Checklist?

This new vehicle pdi & lot readiness checklist helps automotive dealership teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for pdi technician / new car manager / dealership porter professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: per new vehicle arrival.

Ensures compliance with OEM Franchise Dealer PDI Requirements, Monroney Labeling Act (15 U.S.C. 1231-1233), NHTSA New Vehicle Transport Damage Claims, NADA Franchise Dealer Standards, NMVTIS Vehicle Title Standards, UK BVRLA New Vehicle Standards, India SIAM New Vehicle Preparation Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the New Vehicle PDI & Lot Readiness Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Transport Damage Inspection, Deprotection & Preparation, Feature Activation & Software, Compliance & Documentation, Detail, Lot Placement & Final Readiness. It is designed for automotive dealership operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per new vehicle arrival. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Who should use this New Vehicle PDI & Lot Readiness Checklist?

This checklist is designed for PDI Technician / New Car Manager / Dealership Porter professionals in the automotive dealership industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.