Searching for the next truck can be an exciting experience till you see the price tag. Although it is possible that you can afford the entry-level model, what of all of those wonderful features you’ve been dreaming about? Are you willing to sacrifice it all just because you want a brand-new truck? I don’t think so.
New trucks are great if you can afford the one you want. However, if you can’t, you don’t need to exceed your budget or run into debt just because you need a new truck. You can as well go for used ones that are in excellent condition. That being said, in case you are wondering which is better to buy; a used or new truck? Well, both are great options; it all depends on your budget and preference. You can also check out here for excellent used trucks for sale.
Meanwhile, here are some common reasons people go for used trucks:
Reliability And Durability
Trucks were designed to withstand heavy-duty towing, intense labor, everyday commuting, and off-roading terrain. As such, they take a longer time to develop signs of wear and tear. As long as the truck is well maintained and all parts are replaced when damaged, the truck should be in perfect condition.
If you’re concerned about wear and tear when buying a used truck, you can ask for details about its maintenance and repair history.
Additionally, you can read the reviews of various truck models and previous owners to check the pros and cons from your personal point of view. It will guide you in choosing the perfect brand for you.
Better Prices
A huge advantage of buying a pre-owned truck is that it easily gives you a chance to get something within your budget. Asides from saving money on initial purchases, your insurance and loan interest rates for a previously owned truck will be lesser.
Lifetime Warranty
Buying a new truck isn’t the only means of getting quality maintenance and added security. Some dealership warranties extend the maker’s powertrain warranty to last for the entire period in which you own the truck. They typically view truck purchases as an investment, which is why they strive to help clients protect the investment.
More Packages And Features
Buying a pre-owned truck also offers you the chance to afford extra packages and features that you may not be able to afford when getting a new one. With a used truck, you’ll get features at a lower or similar price with new entry-level models. Since there are various categories of trucks for sale, you can also find a perfect fit with enhanced towing capabilities and a luxurious interior.
Less Depreciation
Whether you purchase an old or new truck, depreciation happens. But when you get a brand-new truck, the depreciation will hit harder than getting a pre-owned one. After you drive off the lot, its value will drop immediately and continue to do so even in the first year. When you get a used truck that has already taken the biggest depreciation hit, you’re prone to experience a smaller loss in value during its first year.
What To Look For When Buying An Old Truck
A Strong & Unbent Frame
The frame is the chassis that links the truck’s body with its mechanical components. For this reason, you should look for a truck that has a strong, unbent frame. Bent frames could be a sign that the truck was previously involved in an accident or used for heavy-duty activities such as hauling heavy trailers or snowplowing. You can check underneath the truck to make sure it’s straight.
Signs Of Heavy Off-Road Use
When buying a truck, it’s advisable to avoid those that are heavily used off-road. This is because off-road use is taxing on the structural and mechanical systems of trucks. Some of the signs of heavy off-road use are dings and deep scratches underside of the vehicle’s frame. They can cause increased wear on the transmission or suspension and chassis of the truck.
Bed And Towing Hitch Integrity
Inspecting a truck for corrosion, rust, dings, or heavy scratches is also important. It could be a sign that the truck was used heavily and not properly cared for. You should check the truck bed for signs that it was recently repainted, as it could be used to cover up structural flaws. Then, the next step is to examine the towing hitch. You should be focused on signs of damage within the towing hitch and cracks in its surrounding metal.
Repair And Maintenance History
A comprehensive repair and maintenance history report assists you in understanding the level at which a truck was maintained. Also, it helps you get a better idea concerning its overall quality and how much longer it can last. In a case where you don’t have access to a maintenance report, it’s advisable to visit a website. You could ask to book a third-party inspection from a certified mechanic to be sure the truck is in a good condition.
You must ensure to get your truck from a certified dealership so you can enjoy an unforgettable car purchase experience.
