When you're ready to purchase a vehicle, buying a used model may make more financial sense than getting a new one. You can lower your purchase price as well as your insurance and tax costs. As you begin your search for a used truck, there are several factors to consider while you compare models.
Safety
Review the results of crash tests performed on the trucks you are considering. The federal Safer Car website allows you to search vehicle test results dating back to 1990s models. The nonprofit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also offers data on vehicles from that decade.
Fuel Efficiency
The U.S. Department of Energy provides city and highway fuel mileage data for trucks dating back to 1984. Use the "Compare Side-By-Side" tool to see how various models stack up.
Expert Advice
The nonprofit Consumer's Union's "Consumer Reports" magazine offers lists of the best and worst used cars to its subscribers. The organization's website also provides reliability ratings that cover 17 potential trouble areas over 10 model years.
Inventory and Prices
If you've narrowed your search to a few makes and models, search Internet listings for your city and nearby towns to see the trucks available and how their prices and mileage compare. In addition to national used-car websites, visit those of local car dealerships. Don't forget to check local online and print classifieds, too.
Warranty
While you probably won't get any guarantees when buying a vehicle from a private seller, some local dealerships may offer warranty coverage on used trucks.
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