If you don’t have enough budget, you might consider buying a used truck. But before doing so, you must arm yourself with great knowledge and advice. Do not rush. You must first know your exact price range and not deviate from your original plan.
Aside from that, you should also find out if the seller has any maintenance records. Consider asking the seller if you can spend 45-60 minutes with the truck. During this time, thoroughly inspect the truck you wish to purchase.
Truck Inspection Checklist
First, you need to examine the truck only during the day. Remember that even when the place is well lit, flaws can still be hidden. Also, stay on level ground when checking fluids.
Second, check that the body panel opening and seam fit together. Consider running your hand along the bottom area of the doors and check for any rusty edges. From back to front, check the panels and body. If they look uneven, use a magnet to check them. If you see any raised spots on the ceiling, it means there is rust underneath. And this will require a more extensive inspection in the area if you really want to buy such a vehicle.
Third, raise the hood. Consider removing the radiator cap and check the coolant. Often this will be greenish in color. When the color looks wrong, the engine can overheat. Today, there is already a cheap changing room that you can invest in. Also check the air filter for excessive dirt. If there is a lot of oil or grease deposited on the engine, this indicates that it has not been well cared for. If you are considering purchasing a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you should check the transmission dipstick. You should back off if the stick smells burnt as this means a transmission problem.
Fourth, start the engine. Check for knocking or knocking as these sounds indicate a bad connecting rod bearing and crankshaft. Both can mean expensive repairs. Trucks must have a high idle setting. In case the idle doesn’t seem right, consider having the engine checked by a trusted mechanic. Also check all the switches and extras on the car like air and lights.
Fifth, drive the car, turn off the engine, cool it down for a while, and start the engine again. When the engine fails to start the second time, have it checked by a mechanic. It would be a good idea to take someone with you on a test drive because the extra driver can pick up things like wind noise and rattle that the driver often can’t.
