Build Date vs. Compliance Date: What You Need to Know When Buying a Car
At Tynan Motors, we offer a wide range of new, used, and demonstrator vehicles across over 12 leading automotive brands, with locations in Miranda, Sutherland, Kirrawee, Wollongong, and Albion Park.
One common question we receive from customers is about the difference between a build date and a compliance date. These two dates may seem similar, but they have different meanings and can impact your registration, warranty, resale value, and insurance.
Here’s what you need to know when choosing your next vehicle.
What is the Build Date?
The build date is the month and year when the car was manufactured. This includes when the:
✔ Vehicle’s body was assembled
✔ Engine and transmission were installed
✔ Final quality checks were completed before leaving the factory
Why is the Build Date Important?
✅ Identifies the vehicle’s true age – If a car was built in late 2023 but complied in early 2024, it may still contain 2023 specifications.
✅ Determines model year updates – Some models receive feature upgrades or minor design changes during a production year.
✅ Influences resale value – Cars with a newer build date may be perceived as more desirable on the used market.
What is the Compliance Date?
The compliance date is when the vehicle meets Australian safety and emissions standards and is cleared for sale. This date is recorded when the compliance plate is fitted or when compliance is electronically registered.
A compliance plate is typically found in the engine bay, door pillar, or footwell and confirms that the vehicle meets Australian Design Rules (ADR) for roadworthiness.
Since July 2021, compliance plates are no longer required on new vehicles.
Instead, compliance details are now recorded electronically. You can check a vehicle’s compliance status via the Government’s Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV):
Why Do These Dates Matter When Buying a Car?
✔ Registration & Warranty: The compliance date determines when a vehicle can be first registered, and some manufacturer warranties are linked to this date.
✔ Insurance & Financing: Many insurance companies and lenders use the compliance date to classify the vehicle.
✔ Resale Value: In Australia, cars are often marketed based on compliance date rather than build date, which can impact how they’re valued in the future.
Tynan Motors: Helping You Make the Right Choice
At Tynan Motors, we pride ourselves on transparency and expert advice when it comes to choosing your perfect vehicle. Whether you're buying a brand-new car, a used vehicle, or a demonstrator model, our team ensures you have all the relevant build and compliance details so you can make an informed decision.
🚗 Explore our range of over 12 brands today at one of our locations in Miranda, Sutherland, Kirrawee, Wollongong, or Albion Park.
📞 Contact us for expert guidance and drive away with confidence, call 8545 8888.