What to look for when buying a used truck

What to look for when buying a used truck. Whether it’s a long-distance workhorse or a daily delivery vehicle you’re looking for, here are our top tips to ensure you buy the right truck for your needs and budget.

Vehicle check

Check the truck against the information held by the DVLA to confirm the details of the vehicle you’re buying. Running this kind of check provides useful information about a truck’s history, allowing you to make a more informed decision.

Mileage and maintenance history

Look at the truck’s mileage and maintenance history. A vehicle with a lower mileage often means less wear and tear on crucial components.

A comprehensive maintenance record is also useful, as it provides information on a truck’s past and can highlight any recurring issues that might require attention.

Mechanical inspection

It is often a good idea to arrange for your own or an independent mechanic to inspect the vehicle – the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and other key components – to check for any potential problems that might not be otherwise apparent.

Service and MOT

The seller should ensure that the truck has had a recent service and has a valid MOT – the longer the better.

Warranty

For peace of mind against unforeseen repairs, look at what kind of warranty the seller is offering – how comprehensive it is and how long it lasts.

Exterior and interior condition

A truck’s exterior and interior condition affect its overall value. Check for signs of rust, dents, and paint damage, plus broken components such as light lenses and worn tyres.

In particular, check the condition of any vehicle-specific features, such as fridge units, tail lifts, loading doors, and curtains.

Inside, inspect the condition of the seats, dashboard, and other interior components. Severe wear on the steering wheel or pedals could indicate a high level of use.

Towing and payload capacity

Always ensure that the truck you’re thinking of buying will meet the demands of your intended business use. Bear in mind that your business, and what you expect of your trucks, might change over time.

Fuel efficiency

With fuel costs being a major part of running a truck, fuel efficiency is an important consideration. Check the truck’s miles per gallon (mpg) ratings and estimate the potential cost of operating the vehicle over time and under your specific business conditions.

Technology and safety features

Modern trucks are often equipped with advanced technology and safety features. Check for infomatics systems, SatNav, backup cameras, reversing alarms, and seat belts, for example.

Driver experience features

Depending on what you need, look for bunks, microwaves, cool boxes, Bluetooth connectivity, and air-conditioning.

Environmental

The UK Government has committed to phasing out the sale of new, non-zero-emission heavy goods vehicles of 26 tonnes and under by 2035, and all new HGVs that aren’t zero-emission by 2040.

It’s also introduced a number of Clean Air Zones (CAZs) across the country, so look for a truck with a Euro 6 engine. Trucks rated Euro 5 or earlier are penalised when operating in CAZs and their owners have to pay fines.

Looking further ahead and to the phasing out of diesel engines, you’ll eventually need to consider alternative-fuelled vehicles.

Depreciation rate and resale value

Certain brands and models tend to hold their value better than others. Also, the resale value will become an increasingly important factor as diesel engines are phased out.

Reassuringly Dawsondirect

Our customers can be reassured that all the vehicles we sell here at Dawsondirect are maintained to the highest standards and supplied with:

• Recent service
• Complete service and documented maintenance history
• Minimum 6-month MOT
• 3-month limited drive-line warranty
• Multi-point check/tyres to a minimum 6mm tread
• Mileage of under 150,000km per year
• LOLER inspections and certificates
• Full valet

If you’re thinking of buying a used truck, contact me on jacklagdon@dawsongroup.co.uk or 07880 464600 for advice on renewing your fleet and how we can work together to put in place a Smarter Asset Strategy for your business.

Jack Lagdon – Sales Executive, Dawsondirect