What to Look for in a Used Durango

Dodge Durangos are roomy sport utility vehicles. Their powerful engines enable you to tow a boat, trailer or camper. They are versatile and can carry as many as eight passengers and the second- and optional third-row seats can be easily flipped down to add plenty of storage capacity. There are considerations to follow when you are thinking of purchasing a used Durango to ensure you do not buy a lemon.

Techniques

Examine the vehicle carefully using a checklist you can download from numerous websites or find in car magazines. The checklist will include things like opening and closing all doors, rolling down each of the windows, testing the additional features, such as rear window defogger, passenger heat and air controls. You should also check for scratches, rust and other damage.

Search online or in books for prices of the used Durangos. Your library or bookstore has an automotive section and you will find many resources on what to expect in a used Durango. They list the extras offered for each model and the condition of the vehicle and base their price on these factors. The books will list prices for trade-ins, buying from an individual or a car dealer. You will be able to tell right away if the vehicle is worth the asking price.

Take the car out on the road for a test drive; driving it around the block is not enough to test how it handles according to the Federal Trade Commission. The Dodge Durango is built for travel in all kinds of conditions, so make sure it is still capable by traveling on different roads and conditions, such as hilly areas, highways and in heavy traffic conditions. Make sure it does not feel top heavy when you are going around a curve, or does not hesitate when climbing hills.

Hire a trusted mechanic to inspect the Durango. If you do not know anyone, ask your friends and relatives. The mechanic will be able to give you an unbiased opinion on whether the Durango is worth the asking price. According to dodge.com, the Dodge Durango is the least costly of the larger SUV's, so you want to make sure you are getting the best price available.

Go over the interior with a careful eye, chances are if the interior was taken care of, the exterior and the engine was also. Regular maintenance and tune-ups can make or break the longevity of a vehicle, and if the maintenance was kept up, chances are the Durango will last for many years down the road.