How to Buy a Used Truck

Used Truck Checklist

1. Know What Size You Need - Trucks come in different cab designs, so consider the number of people you will normally be driving around. Consider an extended cab for more space or save with a regular cab if you won't have more than 2 people regularly.
2. Know What You Will Use It For - Are you going to be using the truck for a lot of towing or hauling? Consider a powerful diesel engine, if that is the case. Is this just a family car and you have no regular need for towing? Consider a small or mid-sized pickup truck. This will allow better gas mileage, although you will be sacrificing some engine power.
3. Know How Often You Will Use It - Is this going to be your everyday truck or a truck that you will only need in certain situations. Answering this should help you decide if you can save money buying a truck with more miles on it. More miles won't be a big issue if you use the truck occasionally, but you will be better off buying a truck with low miles if it is going to be your everyday truck.
4. Read the History Report - This gives an idea of the history of the vehicle and any damage that has been done. You can review it and find things such as the number of past owners, structural damage, any accidents, information on warranties, and more.
5. Consider Warranties - Used trucks often contain warranties, so check to see what the trucks you are interested have. For extra security and reliability, look into Certified Pre-Owned trucks, which aim to give drivers the same confidence with a used truck that they get from a new truck.