Tesla gives you a narrow window — typically 72 hours or 100 miles, whichever comes first — to report cosmetic and panel defects after delivery. Miss it, and any flaw you find becomes your problem to fix, not theirs.
That makes delivery day the single most important moment in the entire buying process. Most new owners are so excited to drive off that they skip the inspection that actually protects them.
Before You Arrive
Complete everything you can in the Tesla app ahead of time so your appointment is focused entirely on inspection, not paperwork. Bring a flashlight, a microfiber cloth, and a panel gap tool if you have one — uneven panel gaps are one of the clearest signs of fitment or prior-repair issues.
Exterior Walkaround
Check paint quality under direct light, looking for chips, scratches, or inconsistent color match between panels. Inspect glass for chips and rims for scuffs. Compare panel gaps side to side — doors, hood, trunk, fenders, and bumpers should all be symmetric.
Interior & Tech Inspection
Test the audio system across all speakers, verify each climate zone independently, preview all cameras, and check the display for dead pixels. These are easy to overlook in the moment but expensive to fix later.
The First 72 Hours
Your inspection doesn't end when you drive away. Pay close attention during your first 10-mile drive — unusual noises, vibrations, or handling issues can point to a faulty drive unit or unseated seals that aren't visible during a static inspection.
Why This Matters
Tesla is far more motivated to fix a defect before you accept the car than after. Once you've signed off on delivery, the leverage shifts. A few minutes of careful inspection on delivery day can save you thousands in out-of-pocket repairs down the line.