4 Tips For Buying A Used Pickup Truck

Posted on: 25 November 2017

Whether you haul things on a regular basis or need a vehicle that can tow a boat or camper, choosing a pickup truck is an excellent choice. While many people would love to buy a brand new truck, a lot of people find that a used truck is actually within their budget. But, when buying a used truck, it is important to be diligent and prepared to find a quality product. Use the following tips to help you find the right used trucks for sale:

Get a Vehicle Report

When you find a used truck that you're interested in, always order a vehicle history report. All you need to get a vehicle history report is the truck's VIN. A vehicle history report will show any accidents that the truck was involved in and whether or not the truck has a clean or salvaged title. This information can help you determine whether or not the truck you're interested in is a good buy.

Ask for Service Records

Ideally, you should try to purchase a used truck that has all service records available. When service records are available, you will be able to see how well the truck was maintained as well as any repairs that have been made on it. Also, having service records available often shows that the previous owner of the truck took good care of it, so it will likely run longer and with fewer issues than a truck that was not adequately maintained. 

Take a Thorough Test Drive

Before buying a used pickup truck, you need to do more than just drive it around the block. To get a good feel for the condition of the truck, it is important to do an extended test drive on both surface streets and the freeway. If you are purchasing a used truck with 4WD, make sure you take the truck off the pavement and test out the truck in both high and low range to ensure that it functions properly when in 4WD.

Invest in an Inspection by a Mechanic

One of the most important things to do when purchasing a used pickup truck is to schedule an inspection with a reputable mechanic before you sign any papers. A mechanic will be able to thoroughly inspect the truck and determine whether it is in excellent condition or close to needing major repairs. Having a mechanic inspect a truck before you purchase it can potentially save you from buying a truck that will become a money pit and not run reliably. 

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