I ordered my TL last week and my dealer called today says it'll be ready by tomorrow. He bought it actually from another dealership and told me my VIN# is 367xx. I know the current build VIN# will greater then 44xxx. Should I accept the car? Or should I ask the dealer get me a new build one? I wish I can have my car asap but still worrying about the issues like EL42 & memory seats & rattles. Have them fixed these issues for 36xxx TLs?
Another question is, what should I do/exam on the delievry day? If I find something wrong, can I refuse to take the car? THX A LOT!!!

 

um, i think you're fine, i have an 18XXX vin and my baby is perfect, except headliner, which was fixed right away

 

When you get to the dealer, take you time inspecting the car. Walk around it and check for scratches, sit inside and make sure everything is nice and new and maybe even take it for a quick drive with the salesman.

 

You can refuse the car if you find a major problem. Always inspect your car when you pick it up. Exterior: check paint, tires, rims, underhood (for any major problems). Interior: check leather (cracks, fadding, etc.) turn car on, check radio, CD, lights, instruments, AC and anything else. Dont forget to test drive your car first and ask lots of questions. If you are not sure about something make sure you let you opinion be known. I have a abyss blue TL, Vin 19xxx. SO far I have not had too many problems w/ the EL42's, mem seats, or rattles. I tend to drive hard and I have taken my car up to 130+ and the rattle is no more then as to be expected at high speeds. I know what you mean about wanting your car ASAP and I bet when you get it you'll find any excuse to drive. Congrats and enjoy your TL.

 

Check the headliner

 

If possible take someone with you - just like closing on a house and going through the inspection. A couple sets of eyes are helpful. I overlooked a chip that someone touched up with touchup paint and it really pissed me off that I over looked it - pretty good touch up considering I still have to get my nose up on it to see it - but I would bring someone with you and take your time. Salesman gives you any pressure - you tell him to back off - you will find him when you are ready. Hopefully a clear day so you can get some natural light on the finish and really check it out.

Good Luck!!

 

Guys, would you tell the dealer that you will hand over the certified bank check ONLY after you check out the car? I am bringing 2 other people along when I take delivery of mine to scutinize it despite it coming straight from the factory. And I imagine you can withhold payment if there are problem...right? I can understand the apprehension as I spotted some cars with scrapes, scatches and chips in the dealer's lot while it sat there.

 

Of course you can reject it. I did that with my first car that came in. I had to wait an extra two weeks for the next one, same color. It's not a deal until you accept the goods and drive over the curb. Don't give the money or sign the contract until you are totally happy with the car.

Especially check the wheels to make sure they didn't rub up against something. Then check the surface closely on the hood and trunk to make sure they didn't scratch it by using that big long-handled car wash brush they love so much.

Check the interior, especially the A pillar next to the driver for grasy hand prints. That's where the 300 pound mechanic grabs to ease his carcass into the car. Check all the seats/leather for cuts or flaws.

Saying all that, I must report my car was and still is flawless after one week of ownership. I don't know if it rattles at 130 because I haven't gone half that speed yet.

You should have the new compound EL42 tires if you are in the 30's. Check the tire and look for "TU2" which indicates the newer EL42s. Your car was built in late Feb or early March 2004.

XP

 

XP,

thanks, man. That was very helpful. I already asked about the brushes and was told they ONLY use terry towels to wash cars prior to delivery. Mine is WDP so the scratches will be much less visible. I will definitely scutinize it front to back and inside out. I hope 3 pairs of eye will be better than one.

dsc888