The cost of expanding your fleet and buying large trucks can be daunting. If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution, buying a used truck can be a great solution. However, buying pre-owned vehicles and machinery does come with risks, so you need to be cautious. What should you know before buying a used truck? Consult our Papé Kenworth blog for a step-by-step guide.

#1 Know the Maintenance History

Before buying a used truck for your fleet, you’ll want to know that it has been well-maintained. Otherwise, you’re in for costly engine rebuilds and maintenance issues down the line, offsetting the cost advantages of buying used. 

When investigating the health of a truck, you’ll want to request access to all of the maintenance records. Things to look for in the maintenance records include:

• How regularly was the oil changed?
• Does the truck have a history of any engine problems?
• Do any parts need to be replaced that haven’t been replaced yet?

Sometimes with used equipment, records can be difficult to obtain. If maintenance was done at the dealership, ask the dealership to look at the lease return units.

#2 Find Out What Maintenance is Due

Know what upgrades and maintenance issues might need to be addressed down the line. Make sure the cost benefits of buying used outweighs the benefits of buying new. Used trucks, if well-maintained, and exceptional investments.

#3 Have the Truck Vetted by a Trusted Mechanic

Be sure to have the used truck looked at by a trusted mechanic. Thankfully, when you go through trusted dealerships like Papé Kenworth, the trucks in our inventory are always vetted by trained professionals. When buying from an individual, however, you need to exercise more caution, as it’s much easier for individual sellers to overlook and sometimes mask major issues. 

#4 Go Through a Reputable Dealer

Buying from individual sellers can seem more affordable upfront, but the reliability and assurance doesn’t always add up. Be sure to check reviews of the dealership or seller and make sure they’re honorable, trustworthy, and transparent. Is there any factory warranty left? Make sure that you understand what you’ll be responsible for in case anything does go wrong. Thankfully when you go through trusted dealerships like Papé Kenworth, you can be sure your pre-owned vehicle has been inspected and well-maintained.

#5 Ensure the Truck Matches Your Needs

Don’t buy a used truck just because it’s a good deal. You can find pre-owned trucks to add to your fleet that match your exact needs and purposes. Be sure to browse our selection of used trucks for an idea of the vast variety of available pre-owned vehicles for your fleet.

#6 Ask About Financing Options

Financing options aren’t just for new vehicles. Pre-owned vehicles are a major investment, so be sure you know how to negotiate and plan financially. One advantage of going through a dealership rather than an individual seller is that there are built-in financing options through the dealership’s financing department. Take a look at the financing options available through our Papé Kenworth Finance Department.

Ask the Experts

Have questions about buying used? Reach out to our team of trained professionals and we’ll be happy to help. We look forward to working with you and best of luck on your search!