Buying used trucks can be intimidating for new buyers. There are many unique challenges that buyers face when making this purchase. If you’re trying to find a good truck for yourself or a driver, check out this used big rig buyer’s guide.
Decide on a budget
When buying a big rig, it can be tempting to shell out a ton of money for a fancy vehicle. But you don’t have to break the bank to get a functional truck! Nearly any budget can still get you an excellent truck, and you can use the money you save to maintain it so it lasts longer and runs better. And, many well-used trucks are in excellent working condition! So, remember that you don’t have to spend a ton to get a ton of value out of your truck as long as you do your research.
Ask for the history
Every vehicle has endured a unique set of challenges and issues throughout its life. When you’re checking out a truck that you may want to buy, make sure to ask for its maintenance history. Most sellers will have a comprehensive list of when routine maintenance was performed on the vehicle. This list will give you a better idea of how long you can actually expect the big rig to last once you’ve bought it. Check everything you can, including engine maintenance, tire tread, and axles.
However, history isn’t just about maintenance. You should also check in on how the truck was used. Was it a local truck or did it take national trips? This information will inform you how often the vehicle stopped and started, which puts strain on the vehicle while adding time the engine is on without it showing up on the odometer. All of this information will give you a clearer picture of how well the vehicle will hold up long-term.
Check the updated standards
Of course, older trucks don’t always comply with current regulations. Nor are they always up to modern standards of manufacture. So it’s a good idea to update yourself on what new standards any vehicle needs to comply with. Usually, emission standards wind up being the ones that have changed the most, but you should also check to see if any other regulations would render a used truck obsolete. Like with all major purchases, it pays to do your research.
If you’re gearing up to buy a used big rig, try not to stress out too much. The process can be convoluted, and it’s a big purchase, but with the right preparations, you can find an excellent vehicle that will serve you well for years to come.
