There are very few vehicles that have proven to be more versatile and capable than a pickup truck. With a new year underway, many consumers look forward to purchasing a brand-new vehicle. A used pickup truck presents itself as a cost-effective and practical option for many. If you’re in the market for one, then we’ve got some great tips to follow.

Diesel over Petrol

In recent years, many manufacturers have reinvigorated the diesel-fueled engine. While they can last longer than gasoline-powered engines, they come with a heavier price tag. Diesel engines are more expensive to maintain, and diesel fuel costs more than petrol. Think about this carefully when you’re out shopping around.

Warranty

Even if a vehicle has been previously owned, the warranty coverage will pass on to a new owner. Each manufacturer has different criteria for what it covers and for how long. Be sure to check the odometer readings and check up on the manufacturer’s warranty, especially when it comes to items such as the powertrain.

A Clean and Thorough History

While this is recommended for any vehicle that you’re thinking about purchasing, it’s especially important with a used pickup. This will let you know if the vehicle was ever classified as a salvage item or was ever involved in a severe accident. This can be attained via a CARFAX report. It’s also essential to ask for any repair records. This will inform you if there have been any engine overhauls or transmission rebuilding and whether or not the repairs were done with OEM parts and not cheap after-market ones.

Check for Any Recalls

Every so often, a manufacturer issues a recall for a specific part of a vehicle and sometimes an entire model lineup. Check to ensure that there were no recalls issued with the model that you’re looking at wasn’t subject to a recall notice, and if it was, make sure that the right part was replaced.

Inspection

It’s important to remember that as a consumer, you have rights. Any vehicle you’re thinking of purchasing should be a certain level of quality. Before any purchase is made, take the truck to a mechanic for a thorough inspection. This will let you know if there’s any part of the truck, such as the drivetrain or undercarriage, has been damaged. It’s also an excellent preventative measure in knowing whether or not a problem could develop over time.

The Truck Junction

If you’re in the market for a pre-owned pickup and are concerned about quality, The Truck Junction in Venice has you covered. For our inventory and hours of operation, visit our website or stop by and see us at 301 US 41 Bypass S in Venice!

Reducing your fuel consumption can save you a lot of money. Rather than driving less, consider changing some of your driving habits to consume less fuel. Here are some fuel-efficient driving habits.

Did you know accelerating and braking too quickly reduces your fuel efficiency and increases your fuel consumption? If you are the type of driver who accelerates quickly when the light turns green, or someone who waits until the last minute to brake at a stop sign, consider changing these habits. Gradually accelerating and braking can notably reduce your fuel consumption and help you take fewer trips to the pump.

Another way to reduce your fuel consumption is by reducing the amount of time you use your air conditioning and heating. Air conditioning and heating use up fuel and you should avoid using these features unless it is necessary to drive comfortably.

Do you have a lot of items in your vehicle? If you have a tendency to let things sit in your car, this can actually be reducing your fuel efficiency. The heavier your car, the most fuel it uses to get from here to there. Keeping your car empty and lightweight can help you take less trips to the gas station.

Slowing down can help you save fuel. One of the biggest contributors of fuel consumption is high-speed driving. Do your best to drive the speed limit, whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway, to increase your fuel efficiency.

Another way you can avoid using too much fuel is by taking longer trips. Instead of going on short trips every day to run errands, combine all of your errands into one long trip. Short trips actually consume more fuel than longer trips because your engine does not have the time to heat up properly. When taking a long trip and getting everything done in one go, your engine can perform more optimally and efficiently.

Not only can these tips help you reduce your fuel consumption, but they can also help you expand the lifespan on your vehicle and save you money. Try out these tips when you’re behind the wheel of a new-to-you vehicle from The Truck Junction. You can find our pre-owned pickup truck dealership at 301 US 41 Bypass S in Venice.