Automakers sell trillions of new vehicles in the U.S. Among the huge variety of vehicles, pick-up trucks remained a hot commodity in 2016, with more than 600,000 sold in the first quarter.

In the meantime, the used pick-ups are equally in high demand for gas and diesel. According to some experts, the market for used pick-up trucks is three times bigger than new trucks. People who can’t afford new pick-ups or wish to profit from depreciation are constantly looking for a great deal on used pick-ups.

• There are millions of used pick-up trucks for sale across the country, so if you are looking for a used pick-up truck in Sparta, WI, or Used SUVs for sale Winona, MN, here are the following tips.

WAIT! Before walking down the list of tips, the main thing you must remember is never to be fooled by nice paints, bells & whistles, and attractive prices. Be smart in your decision-making, and inspect the truck on your own.

Tips for Buying a Used Pick-up Truck From A Dealer

 

1. Diesel Matters

Inspect the coolant overflow reservoir of a diesel truck for any indications of oil or fuel in the coolant or behind the coolant cover. Contaminated coolant is a solid sign of problems with the oil cooler, exhaust gas recirculation cooler, or head gasket, all of which can be quite expensive to fix.

Additionally, look for leaks around injectors, from injector lines, or near the turbocharger; exercise caution if you notice issues or evidence of prior repairs. Get specifics on when and who performed any engine repair work if it has been done. Keep in touch with the dealer.

 

2. Check Warranty

While approaching Mason City car dealers to buy used pick up for sale, always check the warranty. The federal emission warranty, which may cover some trucks for up to eight years or 80,000 miles, whichever comes first, may cover the mileage compared to the truck’s drivetrain.

Diesel pick-ups with greater mileages (125,000 miles or more) should be especially concerned since out-of-warranty engine, computer, and transmission repairs can be more frequent and expensive.

This is where purchasing a used truck from a dealer might be advantageous because some dealers provide a limited guarantee followed by a thorough inspection and pre-sale service by their experts.

 

3. Do The Test Drive

You should test drive the truck, just like you would with any other vehicle. Get the engine and transmission to operating temperatures by accelerating quickly, exercising the brakes, and doing so. A 20-minute drive should be sufficient to identify any obvious suspension, steering, or drivetrain problems. Is the truck erratic?

Is the steering wheel sloppy? Does it have firm, straight brakes? Does the transmission have smooth gear shifts? Try shifting the automatic by hand. Do you notice exhaust smoke while the truck accelerates or when you let off the gas and the truck settles down? Keep a close eye on your gut instincts.

 

4. Transmission Checks

Before purchasing a used pick-up, always check the automatic transmission’s dipstick. The liquid should have a little scent and be reddish. The transmission is experiencing internal problems if the fluid is brownish or smells like burned brake pads. During the test drive, short-shift into high gear on a manual transmission vehicle and accelerate quickly to verify the clutch’s condition. There shouldn’t be any talk or slippage.

Also, reach a speed where you can drive in third, fourth, and fifth gears without needing to use the throttle; when the truck is in this “limbo” driving mode, listen for gear whine or driveshaft vibrations. Finally, yet importantly, be careful to know what tires you are driving on when feeling for a driveline vibration.

 

5. Shifting Gears

Put a 4×4 pick-up truck into a four-wheel drive when test-driving it. If you can, leave the pavement. Drive it both in high and low gear. Pay attention to any strange noises or grinding related to the transfer case’s operation.

Check to see if the front hubs are locked, or if the front tires are moving. Reverse the vehicle into a two-wheel drive, then spin the rear tires to check the limited slip or locking differential (if present) for proper operation. You are not misusing the truck; you are ensuring that the 4×4 you purchase performs as it should.

6. Check the Service Records

If a secondhand pick-up has a detailed logbook or service record, as well as invoices for work done, this is one of the best signs that it is all the seller says it is. Regular oil and filter changes performed per the owner’s handbook, and any other dated records and invoices for any repair performed can be a good sign that the seller is not trying to conceal anything. Additionally, it suggests that the engine and transmission should last longer than those in a pick-up whose owner neglected regular maintenance for an extended period.

 

7. Check the Dealer’s Background

Remember that the quality of these services depends on the information sources that provide them with the data. For instance, if a pick-up truck has been in an accident and the owner or the shop performing the repairs does not notify the insurance company, the repairs will not be completed.

A later-model used truck should also have its VIN checked to see if any unresolved recalls need to be addressed. Visit safercar.gov to learn more.

 

8. Do Not Buy Used Pick-up With Flood-Damaged Vehicles

Never buy any used pick-up truck that was reconditioned because it was flooded. Be wary if the truck has rust or mud anywhere inside the cab, bubbles under the paint, new carpet and seats, mildew or watermarks on the seat belts, cushions, or headliner. Perform a thorough examination; raise the carpet to check for corrosion indicators inside the cab or underneath the hood.

Examine the instrument panel for dampness. The major problem with flood-damaged pick-ups is that submersion in water causes the mechanical, electronic, and fuel systems to slowly succumb to cancer. If you don’t look at the less obvious things, it’s difficult to find problems caused by flooding.

Thus, if someone asks you how to find a good truck? Then tell them finding a used pick-up takes a maneuver plan and wise move to make your investment bang for the buck. There is a best buying platform to get all price range new and used cars, Find Cars; you can choose any vehicle, from used SUVs to used pick-up trucks for sale from the leading Mason City car dealers.