Looking for a new truck for work or play, but not willing to cough up $30,000 for one of the new models? Buying a used truck is a way to save some money on a much-needed vehicle, especially if you don't need all of the fancy features that the newest trucks come equipped with. Tread with caution when buying a used old truck, or any used car for that matter, so you don't end up with a lemon on your hands. Take a look at more than one option before you make a final purchasing decision.
Unexplained Damage
Inspect all prospective vehicles for damage, even if you feel like the owner was being forthcoming with information about the truck's history. While dents and dings are to be expected with older vehicles, damage that looks like it could have been the result of an accident could be cause for concern. Car accidents sometimes cause damage that can't be seen, and they can drastically shorten the life span of a car. Save yourself some trouble down the road and do a thorough check for damage that the owner has not informed you of. A CarFax report is available for free from the CarFax website, and it can provide information about any vehicle's history as well.
Transmission
Test drive the vehicle and make sure that the transmission shifts smoothly the whole time. If you feel jerking when the car is shifting or you find it difficult to shift, consider moving on to another truck. One of the advantages of having a truck over a car or van is that they are able to tow things and transport heavy loads. The transmission is charged with helping trucks haul heavy loads, and if it isn't in good shape, it may not be able to fulfill this need. Transmission work is expensive, so unless you are willing to risk inheriting a high repair bill, pass on trucks that have transmissions that feel less than perfect.
Engine
While you would probably want to make sure that all of your vehicles looked "healthy" under the hood, doing an inspection of the mechanics of a used truck is even more important. A used truck will do you little good unless it is in good mechanical condition. Even an auto amateur can tell if a truck has been neglected simply by lifting the hood. If you see duct tape, missing caps or exposed wires, pass on the vehicle. Even if the truck runs well when you take it for a test drive, evidence of neglect can be a warning sign of a truck that may have recurring issues or has not been properly maintained over the years.
Details
Ask the previous owner for proof that oil changes, tune-ups and other routine maintenance has been performed. Don't just take his word for it. According to Meineke, "it is very important to maintain your vehicle in order to ensure proper running condition and to maximize the life of your vehicle." While tune-ups, filter changes, oil changes and other small maintenance work may seem minor, not doing so can lead to more expensive car problems down the road.
Size and Fuel Economy
While it may be tempting to go for the bigger truck, don't purchase more truck than you will actually need. Fuel economy and truck size go hand-in-hand. The Consumer Reports website says, "While pickup trucks have impressive abilities, they also have inherent drawbacks. For example, they tend to guzzle gas whether they're loaded or not. For a full-sized truck such as a Ford F150 or Chevrolet Silverado, 13 or 14 mpg unloaded average is par for the course. For a compact truck such as a Ford Ranger or Nissan Frontier, figure 15 to 17 mpg." If you plan on toting the whole family around in your used old truck, a full-sized one may be the best idea. On the other hand, if you have another vehicle for primary transportation and just need a truck for work or play, consider going with a mid-sized or smaller truck and save some money on gas.
Comfort
When you test drive the vehicle, make sure that you are comfortable with it. While the gadgets like the windows, windshield wipers, lights and such may take some getting used to, test driving is a way to make sure that your potential new used truck is not difficult to steer or park, that it is powerful enough for your needs, that it isn't too powerful for your needs or skill, and that it is something that you can see yourself using for years to come. While used trucks are a smaller investment than the newer models, they are still an investment. Make sure that your new used truck is an investment that you are comfortable with.
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