If the customer does not have a copy of the original purchase receipt, what should the dealer use as the default purchase date?

Using the engine date code, which indicates the date of manufacture, as the default purchase date is a standard practice in many industries, particularly in equipment sales and service. This date serves as a reliable reference point because it provides an objective measure of when the product was built.

In scenarios where the original purchase receipt is unavailable, establishing the purchase date based on the date of manufacture helps in determining warranty periods, service schedules, and the age of the equipment. This approach minimizes discrepancies and errors that could arise if relying on subjective information, such as the customer's recall of when they made the purchase.

While the other options might provide some form of date, they are often less reliable; for instance, using the date that the customer brings in the equipment doesn't reflect when the purchase was made and could lead to confusion regarding warranty or service eligibility. Similarly, relying on the model and serial number does not provide a specific date, and the customer's memory may not be accurate. Hence, the engine date code ensures a consistent and verifiable date for processing repairs and warranty claims.