How to Buy a Used Pickup Truck With Maximum Value

Aug 24, 2018

White Chevy Silverado, silver Chevy Silverado, and red Chevy Colorado lined up left to right at a freight yard

Shopping for a used truck is a different experience than it is for a car or SUV. Pickup trucks are unique vehicles, and thus require a unique approach to buying. First, browse through our selection of used cars for sale in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and pick out some trucks that catch your eye. Then consider the following tips for buying a used truck.

7 Helpful Hints for Buying a Used Truck

Know what you need

Trucks come in a variety of cabin sizes and bed sizes. They also pack various horsepower, towing capacities, and payloads, so it’s important to decide how much truck you need. Buy too big of a truck for your needs, and you might overpay. Buy too little, and you won’t get the job done.

Check the trailer hitch

If you see excessive wear on the trailer hitch, it may indicate the truck spent a lot of time towing under the previous ownership. And more towing means more engine wear and tear.

Check the bed

Examine the bed for any dings, dents, or scratches that seem above normal levels given the age of the truck. Excessive wear in the bed could mean the truck was used for commercial purposes and may have a compromised suspension, shocks, or steering system.

Check underneath

Crawl underneath the truck and have a look. If you see a heavy buildup of dirt, the truck may have spent a lot of time off-road in its previous life.

Read the Vehicle History Report

Buying a used truck no longer has to be the guessing game it once was. A Vehicle History Report provides valuable information such as any previous accidents or major repair work.

Ask about any trade-in or financing specials

An attractive financing deal can put you firmly in the driver’s seat of a truck that would otherwise be out of your budget. And remember, a used car is always negotiable.

Drive it like you own it

Last but not least, give the truck a good test drive.

Shop Used Trucks in Crystal Lake, IL

Once you’ve narrowed down your selection, contact us to schedule your test drive. Or, visit us at Martin Chevrolet today. We’re right around the corner in Crystal Lake, IL.