When you need a truck, you may consider looking into something which already has a few miles on the odometer. Reliable and durable, trucks retain a lot of utility and capability even as they get a bit older, so a used truck is often a great and affordable option. When the time comes to shop, how do you know you’re getting a good deal? The team here at Downtown Auto Group has a few tips to help you out, when it’s time to get behind the wheel of your next used truck.
Research What’s Available
What kind of truck are you looking for? Do you need something which just offers a little extra cargo room in the bed, or are you in need of a real workhorse for some serious trailering? These factors matter when you shop, and will help you narrow down your choices based on your personal needs. Feel free to take a look at the used inventory online, as well, to see what’s in stock. If nothing is quite right for you, try checking back in a week – used inventories are usually in flux, and new vehicles roll onto the lot regularly.
Budget Responsibly
One thing to keep in mind is your budget. You don’t want to end up with a new truck that you can’t make the regular payments on. If you’re not completely sure how much you can reasonably afford, feel free to get in touch with our finance department, and get pre-approved for financing. You can also look at sources such as the CARFAX Canada Value Range to see if the truck you’re interested in is fairly valued. Don’t be afraid to walk away from a vehicle which falls outside your budget – a better opportunity will turn up!
Look at the Paperwork
So, you’ve found a used truck which seems to suit your particular needs. Now, take the time to make sure its paperwork is in order. Reputable dealerships such as ours will have a used vehicle’s history on file, and will happily provide it to you. This should include a VIN check, accident history, warranty information, and an inspection report. If you’re having trouble getting any history on the vehicle you’re interested in, think twice before you make the purchase.
Test Drive It
Never buy anything you haven’t had a chance to drive. Get that used truck on the road to feel how it handles, get a sense for its acceleration and braking, and put it through its paces. Don’t stick to city streets! Get it on the highway, or drive it down a dirt road – really see how capable it is at speed or on rough terrain. Don’t be afraid to push every button in the cabin to make sure all the features are working correctly.
Once you’ve identified your next used truck, the team here at Downtown Auto Group is ready to help you with financing and finalizing your purchase. We also want to make sure your truck continues to drive like new for years to come, so make sure you visit our skilled service technicians for regular tune-ups.