Are you planning on buying a new car? If so, it can be easy to get caught up in the process, such as going through the loan approval process. However, before you take the car home, there are a few things that you should check for. Then, you can help ensure that your car is in the best possible condition and that it is ready for you to drive it off the lot and start enjoying it after signing all of the paperwork.

1. Interior or Exterior Imperfections

When buying a used car, a minor dent or scratch on the outside of the car or a small stain or two on the inside might not be a big deal. However, these are not things that you should deal with when you're buying a new car at a new car price. Make sure that you carefully inspect both the inside and the outside of the vehicle for any imperfections before signing the paperwork and driving the car off of the lot.

2. Cleanliness

Even brand new cars can get dirty while they are sitting on the lot. You probably want to show off your new vehicle after you buy it, and you might not want to worry about having to wash it right away. Many dealerships will detail new cars for people before they buy them. If this isn't offered or if the car is supposedly cleaned but is not up to your standards, don't be too shy to ask your sales professional to take your car to the detailing shop. Then, you can make sure that it's nice and clean when you take it off the lot.

3. Fuel Levels

Many dealerships will fill the car up with gas when you buy it. If you do not want to worry about filling up your tank for a while after springing for a new car, check the fuel levels before you drive off the lot. If the tank isn't full, ask your sales professional if he or she would mind filling your tank up. In many cases, dealerships will do this free of charge.

When driving your new car off of the lot, you probably want to make sure that everything is up to par. Just take the time to check for these things before you leave, and you should be happy with the condition of your new car when you buy it.