Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Used Truck for Your Fleet
Take a close look at more than the age and mileage on any used truck you’re considering for your fleet.
Purchasing trucks for your fleet is a costly and involved process that requires a lot of research and knowledge. It’s important to ensure that you are getting the best deal possible and the best trucks available, even when buying used. With a new vehicle, you know what you’re getting once you take a look at the price and the specifications. However, with used vehicles, some more digging needs to be done to get an understanding of that truck and its history. After you’ve checked the price, there are a few other important factors to consider when purchasing a used truck for your fleet.
Age & Mileage
For any used vehicle purchase, the first thing that is usually looked at is the age and mileage of the vehicle. These factors are important and should be noted, but you don’t necessarily need to base your decision purely on these numbers. It’s tempting to go with the newer vehicle that has fewer miles on its odometer in most cases, but there are other important factors to consider before making the purchase.
Maintenance History
For one thing, an older vehicle that is well-maintained might be the better choice over a newer vehicle that didn’t get the same care. The newer truck might look shinier than the older one, but it’s important to know what kind of maintenance, upkeep, and repairs have been done throughout the life of the truck to keep it in good working condition. A neglected vehicle, no matter how new it is, might need more maintenance throughout the years to keep it running or more expensive repairs sooner. Doing a thorough check of the maintenance history will allow you to make a more informed decision so you don’t take on a vehicle that will only cause problems.
Warranty Status
Knowing if the truck is under warranty, or if certain parts are, is another critical factor. Trucks are expensive to upkeep, so having a new-to-you truck that’s under warranty can help you out if for some reason it suffers from significant issues before too long. Having it under warranty for at least a year will provide a safety net that can protect you if the vehicle has a critical failure, keeping you from having to pay the full cost up-front.
Seller Repute
The best way to buy a used truck is through a reputable dealer that is known for being transparent and trustworthy. It’s a big investment and you need as much information as you can get before you make a purchase on any truck. A good dealer will have carefully vetted any truck sitting on their lot by checking on prior maintenance and doing a full check-up on the vehicle to identify any glaring issues buyers should be aware of. This can save you a lot of problems down the road by ensuring you’re getting a vehicle in good condition that isn’t likely to surprise you with a serious breakdown.
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