If you want a truck that’s fast, capable off-road, and comfortable enough to commute in, it’s best to shop for one a few years older. That’s when initial depreciation has slowed down, and you can find a quality truck at an affordable price.
This list of tips should efficiently weed out dependable dealerships from less-than-reputable ones.
1. Know Your Budget
Trucks are expensive to own, so you’ll want to be sure you can afford your monthly payments. If you’re shopping for a used truck, make sure you know your exact price range before you step foot on the lot.
It’s also important to keep in mind that taxes and fees will add to the overall cost of the vehicle. Once you have a number in mind, don’t let anyone push you beyond your comfort zone.
If you’re buying from a private seller, ask if maintenance records are available; conscientious owners tend to keep these documents organized and easy to find. It will also help you determine if the previous owner put too much strain on the vehicle, which could impact its payload and towing capacities.
2. Know Your Needs
Trucks vary greatly in price, fuel economy, comfort, power and capacity, and size. Whether you’re in the market for a midsize truck, full-size truck or something more compact, it helps to know exactly what kind of work you’ll be doing with your pickup before making a purchase.
The ideal used truck will have lower than average mileage, ideally a decade or more older, and should show a low amount of wear and tear. Keep an eye out for “lot rot” symptoms, which include a weakened battery, flat tires, rusty brakes and other indications that the vehicle has been sitting unused for extended periods of time.
Likewise, look for signs of odometer tampering, which is a common and costly trick among dishonest sellers. A dealer service history is also desirable, as regular inspections and fixes can help fend off potential problems.
3. Know Where to Shop
There are many ways to find a used truck, but you should never neglect thumbing through the classified section of your local newspaper. This is a great place to find someone eager to sell their vehicle at an affordable price. In addition, many local new and used car dealerships regularly advertise older trucks they want to move off their lot.
Keep in mind that additional fees like registration, sales tax and dealer documentation can add up to a big chunk of your purchase. That’s why it pays to know which states charge low or no sales taxes, as they make buying a used truck even cheaper. Shift makes the process of purchasing a used truck streamlined regardless of your state, handling all paperwork and performing 150-point inspections on each vehicle.
4. Know the Vehicle’s History
When shopping for a used truck, it is important to know the vehicle’s history. A comprehensive maintenance history is important, as is a history of accidents. If a truck has been in an accident, it may have suffered significant damage. Shoppers should also look for any skips in routine maintenance, such as a missed oil change.
Odometer tampering is also something to watch out for. Sellers may try to conceal tampering by turning the mileage back to zero or by hiding other signs of excessive use. A red flag is a truck that has been part of a commercial fleet, as these trucks are often subjected to high usage over short periods. Shoppers should stay away from these vehicles unless they are getting an excellent price on them.
5. Know the Dealership’s Reputation
When you decide to buy used, it’s important to shop at a dealership with a good reputation. Check out a dealer’s reviews online and on social media. This will quickly weed out the reliable dealerships from the treacherous ones.
If you decide to go this route, it’s also a good idea to have a mechanic inspect any vehicle you’re considering. Even though modern pickup trucks have a better track record than SUVs, they still need regular service to perform at their best.
Another benefit to going through the dealership is having their financing arranged. This can save time and energy that would otherwise be spent shopping for loans with lenders independently. It can also provide a lot more flexibility in terms of the type of truck you choose to purchase.
