Nicked off Topgear....
Collecting the car
You've been calm and collected up to now, but hang in there for a few more minutes.
What could be worse than finding a fault with the object of your desire? Give the car a thorough check before driving off the forecourt and you can avoid this.
Check the paintwork is flawless, the bodywork perfect and the wheels ding-free. Get your fine-tooth comb out and run it through the interior. This done, you can throw off the sensible shackles and revel in your new car.
It may be dull small print, but the Sale of Goods Act is on your side. If you find a problem with your new car, most dealers will fall over themselves to sort it out.
If a serious fault occurs, you have two weeks to reject the car and either ask for a replacement or your money back. You can do this if the car is not of 'satisfactory quality'.
Put your complaint in writing to the dealer, explaining the problem in full. Be reasonable, but be firm and clear about what you want done to resolve the problem.
Still worried? Then see our 'collection day checklist'. Print out a copy and take it with you on the big day - that way you'll be sure to have everything covered.
Collection day checklist
The big day has arrived - but before you get all excited and drive off into the sunset, take some time to check over the car.
Here's a useful list to make sure you cover everything - be sure to alert the dealer if anything falls below standard:
Bodywork and paint
Is the car the colour you ordered?
Is the bodywork free of any dents, ding or scratches?
Are the wheels spotless?
Are there any ripples in the paint?
Has the paint been touched in anywhere?
Is the paint the same consistent colour all over?
Are there any chips in the windscreen and other glass?
Interior
Is the interior the colour you ordered?
Are there any oily smudges or dirty marks?
Are there any scuffs?
Do all of the buttons and controls work?
Is the stereo present and correct?
Are any floor mats you ordered present?
Mechanicals
Are there any noises from the engine?
What about gearbox, clutch, brakes and suspension?
Does the car drive like the dealer's demo car?
Any smoke from the exhaust?
Does the clutch take up smoothly?
Does the gear lever engage smoothly?
Specification
Is the car exactly how you ordered?
Are all extras you ordered present?
Paperwork
Double-check you are the first registered keeper.
Is the logbook and service book present and correct?
Do you have your insurance sorted?
Does the car have vehicle excise duty (road tax)?
Do you have copies of all paperwork?
Do you have a copy of the warranty?
Do you have a receipt as proof of purchase?
