Your Essential Tesla Delivery Checklist: What to Inspect Before You Drive Away

So, you're picking up your new Tesla! That's super exciting. But before you just hop in and drive off into the sunset, there are a few things you should really look over. It's like when you buy a used car, but, you know, a Tesla. Having a solid tesla delivery checklist can make sure you don't miss anything important and that your new ride is in tip-top shape. Let's go through what you should check.

Key Takeaways

• Do a thorough walk-around of the car's exterior. Check the paint for any weird spots or damage, and make sure all the panels line up nicely. Also, give the windows and seals a good look.

• Inside the car, check the seats, door panels, and dashboard. Make sure nothing looks out of place or damaged. Test out the screens and buttons to see if they all work.

• Verify that all the cool tech features are working as they should. This includes things like Autopilot, the sound system, and the climate control. Don't forget to check the charging ports too.

• Open up the front and rear trunks. Make sure they're clean and that you have all the charging equipment and any tools that are supposed to come with the car.

• Finally, go through all the paperwork. Make sure you have the owner's manual, warranty info, and all the delivery documents are correct. It's your tesla delivery checklist wrap-up.

Exterior Inspection For Your Tesla Delivery Checklist

Alright, so you're about to pick up your shiny new Tesla. Exciting stuff! Before you even think about hitting the road, let's give the outside a good once-over. This is your first chance to spot any little issues, and it's way easier to sort them out now than later.

Paint Condition and Finish

First things first, the paint. Walk around the car slowly, ideally in good daylight. Look for any scratches, dings, or weird blemishes. Sometimes, you might see what looks like a swirl mark, which is usually just a light scratch from the factory. Also, check the finish – does it look consistent across all panels? Sometimes, a panel might have a slightly different shade or texture. It's all about that smooth, uniform look.

Panel Gaps and Alignment

Next up, check out how the body panels line up. Open and close all the doors, the hood, and the trunk. Do they feel solid? Do they close without a struggle? Look at the gaps between panels, like between the doors and the fenders, or the hood and the front pillars. They should be pretty even all the way around. If you see a gap that's way wider on one side than the other, or if a panel looks a bit crooked, make a note of it. It's not the end of the world, but it's something to point out.

Glass and Window Seals

Don't forget the glass! Check the windshield, side windows, and the rear glass for any chips or cracks. Even a tiny chip can spread over time. Also, run your finger along the rubber seals around the windows and doors. They should be seated properly and look smooth, not torn or pinched. Good seals are important for keeping out noise and water, so make sure they look like they're doing their job. You can find some helpful tips on general car care and accessories that might help protect your new vehicle at accessoriesfortesla.com.

Remember, you're not looking for perfection, but for anything that seems significantly off or could cause problems down the line. A little attention to detail now can save you a headache later.

Interior Checks For Your Tesla Delivery Checklist

Alright, now that we've given the outside a good once-over, let's hop inside and make sure everything feels right. The interior is where you'll be spending most of your time, so it's important to check the details.

Upholstery and Trim

First things first, take a good look at the seats, door panels, and any other trim pieces. Are there any obvious scuffs, tears, or stains? Run your hand over the surfaces to feel for any rough spots or loose bits. It's all about that initial feel and finish. Make sure the stitching looks neat and consistent, especially on the seats and steering wheel. If you have a specific interior color or material, check that it matches what you ordered and looks uniform across all panels.

Dashboard and Center Console

This is the command center, right? Give the dashboard a good look. Check for any scratches or smudges on the main screen and surrounding areas. Open and close the storage compartments – do they latch properly? Are there any strange rattles when you tap on the dash? Also, check the fit and finish of all the trim pieces around the vents, buttons, and the center console. Sometimes, small gaps or misalignments can be noticeable here.

Infotainment System Functionality

This is a big one for Teslas. Power on the main screen and make sure it boots up without any issues. Test out the basic functions: can you adjust the volume? Does the touch responsiveness feel good? Try changing the radio station or connecting your phone via Bluetooth (if possible at this stage). You don't need to go through every single menu, but a quick check of the core features is a good idea.

Remember, this is your first interaction with the car's main interface. A smooth experience here sets a good tone for your ownership.

Technology and Features Verification

Now that you've given the car a good once-over, it's time to check out all the cool tech and features that make a Tesla, well, a Tesla. This is where the magic happens, and you want to make sure everything is working just right before you sign on the dotted line.

Autopilot and Driver Assistance Systems

This is a big one. You'll want to test out the Autopilot features. Make sure the lane keeping assist is active and responsive. If you can safely do so in the delivery area, try engaging adaptive cruise control to see how it handles speed adjustments. Also, check that the cameras and sensors are clean and unobstructed, as they are the eyes of these systems. Don't be afraid to ask the delivery specialist to demonstrate these features if you're unsure.

Connectivity and Charging Ports

Make sure the car connects to Wi-Fi without any issues. You'll want to test the Bluetooth connection with your phone for calls and audio streaming. Also, take a look at all the charging ports – USB-A, USB-C, and the wireless charging pad if your model has one – and confirm they are all clean and ready to go. It's a good idea to bring a phone or device to test them out.

Climate Control and Sound System

Turn on the climate control and make sure the air blows cold when you set it to cool and warm when you set it to heat. Test all the vents to ensure air is coming out of each one. For the sound system, play some music through the speakers. Listen for any rattling or distortion, especially at higher volumes. Check that the audio quality is what you expect.

Under the Hood and Trunk Inspection

Alright, let's talk about the spaces where you'll be storing your stuff and what's hiding under the hood. It's not just about the fancy tech; you've got practical areas to check too.

Frunk and Trunk Space

First up, the frunk (that's the front trunk, by the way). Pop it open and take a look around. Make sure the lining is clean and properly fitted. There shouldn't be any weird smells or visible damage. Then, move to the main trunk. Check the floor, the sides, and the ceiling for any scuffs, tears, or loose trim. It's important that these spaces are clean and free of debris from the factory. Think about how you'll use this space – groceries, luggage, maybe even a stroller? Ensure it meets your needs.

Charging Equipment and Accessories

When you pick up your Tesla, it should come with a mobile connector and adapter. Make sure these are present and accounted for. Sometimes they're tucked away in a specific compartment in the trunk or frunk. Give them a quick once-over to ensure they look new and aren't damaged. You'll be using these quite a bit, so it's good to confirm they're there from the start.

Emergency Kit and Tools

Tesla vehicles typically come with a basic emergency kit. This might include things like tire repair sealant, a valve stem tool, or even a first-aid kit depending on the region and model. Check your owner's manual or the delivery specialist to confirm what should be included. It's a good idea to have a small emergency kit ready to go, even if the car comes with one. You never know when you might need it on the road.

Remember to also check the charging port door itself. Make sure it opens and closes smoothly and that the seal around it looks intact. This little flap keeps a lot of important stuff protected from the elements.

Final Walkthrough And Documentation

Alright, you've done the hard part – inspecting the car itself. Now comes the paperwork and making sure you have everything you need to hit the road. This is the final step before you officially drive your new Tesla home.

Owner's Manual and Warranty Information

Don't just toss these aside! The owner's manual is your go-to guide for understanding all the features and functions of your car. It's packed with useful information you might not discover otherwise. Also, take a moment to review the warranty details. Knowing what's covered and for how long can save you a lot of headaches down the road.

• Owner's Manual: Familiarize yourself with its contents, especially sections on charging, safety features, and infotainment.

• Warranty Booklet: Understand the coverage periods for the battery, vehicle, and any other components.

• Service Information: Note down how to schedule service appointments and contact Tesla support.

Registration and Delivery Paperwork

This is where things get official. You'll need to make sure all the registration documents are in order. This usually includes:

• Bill of Sale: Your proof of purchase.

• Registration Application: Forms needed to register the car with your local authorities.

• Temporary Registration/Plates: If applicable, to allow you to drive legally while permanent plates are processed.

• Title: The legal document proving ownership (this might be mailed to you later).

Double-check that all names, addresses, and vehicle details are correct on every document. Any errors here can cause delays later on.

Understanding Your Tesla Delivery Checklist

Think of this final walkthrough as a quick recap and a chance to ask any lingering questions. The delivery specialist should be able to walk you through any features you're still unsure about. It's also a good time to confirm you received all the accessories you ordered or were expecting, like charging cables and adapters. Don't be afraid to ask them to demonstrate anything you're not comfortable with. This is your moment to feel completely confident before driving away.

Remember, the delivery team is there to help you get acquainted with your new vehicle. Take your time, ask questions, and make sure you feel ready to go. It's a big moment, and you want to start your Tesla ownership journey on the right foot.

We've reached the end of our guide! Before you go, take a moment to review everything we've covered. Make sure you have all the details you need. Ready to find the perfect gear for your ride? Visit our website today to explore our full collection of top-notch Tesla accessories!

Ready to Roll!

So, you've gone through the checklist, double-checked everything, and your new Tesla is looking sharp. It's a big moment, for sure! Taking a little time to inspect your car before you drive off the lot can save you headaches down the road. Think of it as the final step before you really start enjoying all the cool tech and smooth driving your Tesla has to offer. Now, go have some fun out there!

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for on the outside of my new Tesla?

When you get your new Tesla, take a good look at the paint to make sure it's smooth and shiny, with no scratches or weird spots. Check that all the doors, hood, and trunk fit together nicely, with even spaces between the panels. Also, make sure the windows and any glass parts are clean and the seals around them look good.

What interior parts of the Tesla should I inspect?

Inside your Tesla, check the seats and door panels for any rips or marks. Look at the dashboard and the middle console to ensure everything is in place and looks neat. Test out the big screen to make sure it works correctly and all the buttons and controls feel right.

How do I check the technology and features?

Play around with the car's tech! Turn on features like Autopilot and make sure the driver assistance systems are working as expected. Test the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, and plug in a phone to check the charging ports. Make sure the air conditioning blows cold and the heater blows warm, and that the sound system plays music clearly.

What should I inspect in the trunk and 'frunk' (front trunk)?

Open up both the front and rear storage areas. Make sure there's enough space for your stuff. Check that the charging cable and any other accessories that came with the car are there and in good condition. It's also a good idea to see if there's an emergency kit or basic tools included.

What documents are important during delivery?

Before you drive away, make sure you have the owner's manual and understand the warranty details. You'll also need to check that all the paperwork for registration and delivery is correct and signed. Don't hesitate to ask questions about anything you're unsure of!

Is it okay to find small issues during delivery inspection?

Yes, it's totally normal to find minor things during your inspection. Teslas are complex machines, and sometimes small imperfections can happen. The important thing is to note them down and discuss them with the delivery team. They can often fix minor issues or arrange for them to be addressed later.