Purchasing a new truck is difficult enough. Getting a used one can be even harder. There are far more things you have to keep in mind when purchasing any kind of used vehicle, and especially a semi-truck. When you visit your local used truck dealer, you should ask as many questions as you can to ensure you’re making the right decision. Here are a few questions you should be sure to ask.
Purchasing a new truck is difficult enough. Getting a used one can be even harder. Here are some questions to ask your used truck dealer.
Why Is It Being Sold?
Conventional wisdom says that, during a job interview, you might want to ask why the position you’re applying for is open in the first place. You should do the same when purchasing a used truck. Ask your used truck dealer why it’s being sold. Be on the look-out for any red flags that suggest issues with the vehicle itself.
Can I See the Truck’s Papers?
You should never—and we mean never—purchase a truck without taking a look at its papers. If a used truck dealer dodges this request or makes it difficult for you to view them, this is the reddest of all red flags.
Carefully review the truck’s maintenance history. A used truck that has not been well cared for could end up giving you grief. Take note of any parts that have been replaced. Ensure that it received regular oil changes, too, or else the engine could be a source of trouble.
Finally, take a look at its accident history. If the previous owner was a reckless driver, they probably didn’t take the best care of the vehicle. You’ll want to know how extensive any damage was and what parts might have been replaced as a result.
Can I Inspect the Truck?
It may seem obvious that you want to take a good look at the truck itself before you purchase it. This is especially important with used vehicles. Still, we want to emphasize again just how important it is to look over every square inch of the vehicle for signs of damage. There’s nothing worse than purchasing a vehicle and noticing damage that you hadn’t before you bought it.
Here are some areas you should pay special attention to:
- Status of engine and transmission oil
- Rust on the body
- Tire tread
These may seem like minor details, but they can indicate how lovingly the truck has been maintained.
Do You Offer an Extended Warranty?
Used trucks are generally cheaper than new ones, but they’re still an investment. Like any other investment, you need to make sure that it’s protected. This is why you must ask your used truck dealer if they offer an extended warranty. If they don’t offer one at all, it’s a sign that they don’t stand behind the product.
If they do offer one, it’s up to you to decide whether it would be a financially smart move. Some warranty plans may be more expensive than they’re worth. Carefully consider the cost of the plan as well as the vehicle’s likelihood of needing repairs.
Baltimore Freightliner-Western for all Your Trucking Needs!
Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet to tow trucks or simply interested in the latest trucking technology, you can rely on Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star. We have provided top-notch service for the trucking industry for 30 years and would love to assist you in buying a new top-of-the-line truck, finding the specialty parts you need, or repairing your truck. Give us a call toll-free at 800-832-7278 or locally at 410-685-4474, or contact us online. To find out more about what we are up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter,and Pinterest.
Tags: semi-truck, truck dealers, used truck dealer