What Are Factory Defects In New Cars and How Dealers Hide Them

Getting a brand-new car delivered is one of the most exciting experiences for any car owner. You’ve done the research, made the booking, waited patiently, and now it’s time to take your shiny new vehicle home. But before you do, it’s worth knowing that not every car rolls out of the showroom in perfect condition. In fact, some cars may have minor issues or what are known as factory defects. And unfortunately, not every dealer will openly point them out.

So, if you’re buying a new car, here’s a simple and friendly guide to help you understand what factory defects are, how to spot them, and why a proper pre-delivery inspection (PDI) can save you from future regrets.

What Is A Factory Defect?

A factory defect refers to any issue that comes built-in from the manufacturer’s side. These are not damages caused during transport or by the dealership, but problems that occur due to lapses during production, quality control, or material selection.

Common factory defects can include:

• Paint bubbles or uneven finish
• Misaligned doors or body panels
• Faulty electronics or sensors
• Software glitches in infotainment systems
• Manufacturing errors in the engine or transmission

Some defects are cosmetic, while others can affect the performance or long-term durability of the vehicle.

Why Would A Dealer Hide A Defect?

While not all dealerships are guilty, it’s true that some dealers might try to avoid pointing out a defect, especially if it means the customer may cancel the delivery or delay final payment. In many cases, they assume the buyer won’t notice, or that the issue can be fixed quietly during the first service.

Common tactics include:

• Rushing the handover process
• Delivering the car at night or in low lighting
• Distracting customers with paperwork or accessories
• Avoiding test drives before the handover

That’s why it’s important not to rush, and to go through your own inspection checklist before accepting delivery.

How to Inspect Your Car Before Delivery

Doing a thorough check during your PDI doesn’t require any special tools, just a careful eye and a bit of patience. Here are a few things you should look at:

• Paint and finish: Check every panel under natural light. Look for inconsistent shades, bubbling, or scratches that may have been touched up
• Body alignment: Ensure the doors, bonnet, and boot shut properly and line up evenly
• Odometer reading: It should be under 50 km for most new cars
• Tyres and rims: Check for wear, damage or mismatched sets
• Electronics and lights: Test every button, from indicators to infotainment, even if it’s just a quick check
• Windows and wipers: Operate all windows, check for slow movement or strange noises

Bring a friend or family member along for a second pair of eyes, it helps.

Don’t Skip the Test Drive

Even if the car has already been registered, insist on a short test drive before finalising the delivery. Listen for any unusual engine sounds, braking issues or warning lights on the dashboard. If anything feels off, it’s okay to ask for clarification or delay the delivery.

When A Defect is Found, What Are Your Options?

If you do spot a defect:

1. Ask the dealer to log it officially.
2. Refuse delivery until the issue is fixed in writing.
3. In serious cases, ask for a replacement vehicle or escalate to the brand’s customer care.

Remember, the warranty only covers repairs. But once the vehicle is registered and taken delivery of, it’s harder to demand a full replacement.

How CARS24 Helps With Defect-Free Cars

While CARS24 deals in used cars, our thorough inspection process helps buyers avoid such surprises. Every vehicle goes through a 140+ point check, and all major systems are tested. If you’re buying a pre-owned car, this kind of inspection helps detect issues that may have been missed, even from the factory. You can also get a car inspected before buying from elsewhere through our PDI services.

Final Thoughts

Buying a new car should feel like a celebration, not a gamble. By taking a bit of extra time during delivery and staying aware of what to look for, you can drive away with complete peace of mind. After all, you deserve a car that’s truly brand new, not one that’s hiding minor defects under a fresh polish.

If you’re ever in doubt about what to check, consider bringing an expert or booking an independent inspection. It’s a small step that can protect your big investment.