Bumper to Mudflap: What You Need to Know Before You Buy Your Next Used Truck
Nothing can seem to kill the American pickup truck. Men and women across this country drive them into the ground, haul dirt, rocks, and mud, and tow thousand pound loads behind them, but they always start up the next day ready to do it all again. If rough and tumble lifestyles couldn’t kill them, surely an economic downturn and higher gas prices could.
Despite the naysayers who envisioned the death of the gas guzzler, American automakers have rebounded in the wake of the Great Recession and pickup trucks are leading the charge. The Ford F-series trucks are leading the charge. Ford sales grew 12% overall by September and for the second month in 2013 the American manufacturer sold 70,000 trucks. With trucks on the rebound, it is worth noting that not everyone is going to be able to afford a brand new truck.
So what about those looking to purchase a used truck they aren’t afraid to put a beating on in the name of getting the job done? Well, before rushing out and finding a used F150 for your next truck, take the time to consider some tips that will make the decision-making process a little easier.
Use the Internet to Your Advantage
Get online and start researching inventories at local dealerships and use resources such as Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book to narrow down your list. Once you have a few good choices in mind that meet your needs, you can start running VIN checks on the vehicles and searching for accident/history reports.
Compare Fuel Efficiency Against Planned Use
No two individuals will be using their used truck for the same purpose. Ranchers, farmers, industries, and commercial businesses all have different needs and uses for a truck. Fuel efficiency is improving with each new model year, but used models can’t match up to new fuel efficiency standards.
This doesn’t eliminate the need for some to buy used though, so compare the fuel efficiency of the models on your list with the rigors you will be putting the truck through. Consider distances covered, towing specifications, and engine/transmissions specs before making a final decision.
Dig Deeper
Never hesitate to call a dealership and ask them for as much information as possible on the vehicles you are considering. Ask for vehicle history reports, accident reports, and even pictures of the vehicle. If the dealer fails to provide this information they are at best ignoring a potential sale, or at worst covering up known issues.
If dealers won’t play ball in helping you make your decision, cross that vehicle off your list and move on. Remember, you are the customer and they are there to help you not take advantage of you. Make them work for the sale in a manner that protects you.
Schedule Inspections
Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask to have the vehicle inspected by an independent mechanic. The dealer is going to assure you that their mechanics have looked the vehicle over and given it the “all clear.” You don’t have to take their word for it and when it comes down to it, those mechanics work for the dealer.
Schedule an inspection with an independent mechanic who has no attachment to you or the vehicle sale and give you an honest opinion of the issues facing the car, if any.
Knowledge is power, and when it comes to buying used vehicles the more you have the better. Never be afraid to ask questions and dig for answers. If dealers don’t want to give you the answers you are looking for, you don’t need to be doing business with them.
Charles Talley is a self-confessed truck fanatic. When he’s not tinkering with his truck or out driving, he’s blogging about it online.
