When it comes to a vehicle that can facilitate the daily commute, travel through the rough-and-tumble activities of off-roading, and deliver the goods on the job site, the pickup truck has long been a symbol of prowess and efficiency. Many consumers have chosen to purchase a used truck because of the lower up-front costs and reduced insurance premiums. Today, we’ll be going over some of the things you should pay attention to, whether you’re at a dealership or buying from a private seller.

Exterior & Interior

While it’s important not to judge anything by appearances alone, the shopping process for a used vehicle is the exception that proves the rule. Be sure to look closely at the exterior and interior of anything you’re thinking of purchasing. Look for discoloration of paint, as this might be an indication that bodywork was recently done. You should also look for rust and abrasions and be sure to check the interior for potential leaks from the HVAC system.

Ask for a Complete History

As a consumer, you have the right to know the complete history of any vehicle that you might be purchasing. Before you buy any vehicle, ask to see the detailed history in the form of a CARFAX report. This will detail any accidents or major repairs that have been performed since the truck was originally sold. If, for whatever reason, you’re denied this information, consider it a red flag and walk away.

Research the Resale Value

All vehicles, regardless of their make and model, go through a process known as depreciation. This is the decrease in resale value that occurs every year. KBB (Kelly Blue Book) released a yearly publication that lists the current value of the various makes and models that are on the road.

Consumer Reports & Recalls

If you’re unsure of the safety and reliability of a particular vehicle, this information is readily available to you through agencies such as Consumer Reports and the NHTSA. If there have been any recalls or a vehicle had poor crash-test results, you can easily find out. This information is objective and available to anyone.

If you’re in the market for a used pickup and want to make a purchase with plenty of quality assurance, The Truck Junction in Venice is here to help. Visit us at 301 US 41 Bypass S in Venice or give our team a call at 941-927-8785.