What To Look For When Buying A Used Truck

Thinking about buying a used truck? Whether you’re upgrading for work, fun, or daily driving, a used truck can be a great investment if you know what to look for. From visual inspections to smart questions, the team at Van Horn Automotive Group put together this guide to help you know what to look for when buying a used truck.

Start With A Thorough Inspection

When buying a used truck, take the time to thoroughly inspect its condition, both inside and out, before you fall in love with the price tag or features. 

1. Check the Exterior: Minor scrapes and dings might not be a dealbreaker, especially if you’re not worried about aesthetics. However, significant body damage or rust could be a sign of underlying structural issues.
2. Look Under the Hood: Pop open the hood and check the engine bay for signs of trouble. Some dust or dirt is normal, but leaks, corrosion, or cracked and frayed belts could be a problem later on.
3. Inspect the Interior: The cabin condition is a personal preference, but serious issues, such as rips, stains, odors, or burn marks, can impact your driving experience and the vehicle’s resale value later on.
4. Review the Mileage: Lower mileage is usually preferable, but condition also matters. For gas trucks, a mileage range of under 100,000 miles is ideal. For diesel, look for options with fewer than 200,000 miles on the odometer. If the mileage is high, make sure the truck has been well-maintained.
5. Test the Features: Try out the A/C, infotainment system, power windows, interior lights, and other small features. These can be expensive to repair later, and you’ll want everything in working order.

Questions To Ask When Buying A Used Truck

Whether you’re buying a used truck from a private seller or a Plymouth dealership, asking the right questions in advance can save you money, time, and headaches later. Here’s a brief overview of essential questions to ask before buying a used truck and driving off the lot:

Are There Any Repairs Needed? 

Ask about current or pending issues. Trucks are often used for towing or off-roading, so check for signs of heavy wear and tear. Be wary of leaks, rust, or electrical problems.

Do You Have Service Records? 

Well-documented maintenance history is a great sign. If the seller doesn’t have records, you may be able to get them from a dealership, especially if the truck was serviced there.

Has It Been In An Accident?

If so, ask about the extent of the damage, the repair work, and who was responsible for it. Light cosmetic work isn’t usually a concern, but a history of major collision repairs should raise concerns. Always back up the seller’s story with a vehicle history report.

Are There Any Open Recalls?

Ask whether the truck has any outstanding recalls that haven’t been fixed. You can verify this information yourself by checking the VIN on the manufacturer’s website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.

Is It Being Sold “As Is” Or Under Warranty?

If the truck is still under warranty, great. Just make sure you read the terms carefully. If it’s being sold as-is, be prepared to handle any future repairs out of pocket.

Can I Take It For A Test Drive?

Never buy a vehicle without test-driving it first. A test drive helps you get a feel for how the truck handles and may reveal problems the seller didn’t mention. If the seller won’t allow a test drive, that’s a red flag.

Is Financing Available?

One question to ask when buying a used truck is about the financing options available. For private sales, you’ll need to arrange financing separately. The finance department at Van Horn Automotive Group can help you compare rates and terms from different lenders before making a decision.

Shop Used Trucks In Plymouth

Now that you know what to look for when buying a used truck, you’re ready to start shopping. At Van Horn Automotive Group, we’re here to help you find a used truck at the right price. Check out our inventory of pre-owned trucks near Milwaukee and give us a call at 920-893-8888 to schedule a test drive. Get pre-approved for financing, value your trade-in, and even calculate your estimated monthly payment online so you can spend less time shopping and more time behind the wheel.