Used Trucks for Sale : What to check before buying them

Purchasing a second-hand truck may be the most cost-effective option in most cases.  Although, a budget-friendly approach might reduce your upfront spending, you might be exposed to frequent upkeep costs down the line. The best way to safeguard yourself against this is to buy a used truck from a reputable dealer and to be aware of the most common problems found in used trucks.  

So, apart from checking for rust and leaks, here is a list of the most common problems to be aware of when buying a second-hand truck. 
 

1. Brakes 

Brakes are the most important aspect of any truck; therefore, it is imperative they always work well to ensure the safety of your driver and other road users. Due to the weight of haulage, a truck’s brakes withstand a lot of pressure, heat, and friction that leads to them wearing out over time. Semi-trucks are also susceptible to air leaks which reduce the brake’s ability to perform adequately.  

Be sure to check the condition of the brake pads/shoes and see if they have even wear. If the wear is uneven, it could be an indication that the brake system needs to be adjusted.  

2. Tires 

Tire issues are one of the biggest problems drivers have to deal with. Replacing a flat or damaged tire takes a lot of time and can have disastrous consequences for your delivery time, negatively impacting your business. Often, used trucks come with tires that have a high degree of wear and tear, so don’t forget to check their current condition.  

Ensure that the tires of the used truck you are looking to purchase are of good quality and have little wear. If the wear is uneven, it is an indication that there is a problem with the wheel alignment or chassis, so make sure to check those too. Semi-truck tires can cost anywhere between $200-$500 each, so be sure to take this into consideration. 

3. Suspension 

The suspension system of your semi-truck needs to be operating at optimal efficiency at all times to ensure smooth driving in all conditions. When a truck’s suspension system isn’t functioning optimally, it reduces the driver’s ability to control the vehicle easily and effectively. 

Take the truck for a test drive to see how the suspension system handles a load. If the truck rocks, sways too much over minor bumps, and pulls to one side when driving straight, then the suspension system might be compromised. This might cause the truck to roll more easily, which is certainly something you want to avoid. 

4. Engine 

If you are looking at buying a used diesel truck that is an older model, then be sure to inspect the engine thoroughly. Check the truck’s maintenance records to see the level of care and repair it has undergone previously. This will help you determine if the truck has been taken care of in the past – if so, it will reduce problems in the future considerably. 

A simple way to determine whether a truck’s engine has any common problems is to see if it gets less mileage than normal. Additionally, if the truck struggles to reach the same speeds as it once did, it is a clear indication of a problem with the engine. Hire a trusted mechanic to inspect the engine for any serious issues before your purchase. 

5. Electrical system 

One of the most common problems you may encounter when buying a used truck is a faulty electrical system. These systems consist of starter motors, alternators, batteries, and various other elements. Unfortunately, these are often the first to go in a second-hand truck, mainly because they are responsible for doing so much to keep the truck operational.  

Semi-truck electrical systems can give out for many reasons, from blown fuses and damaged starter motors to busted alternators and dead batteries. As there are many electrical components to be aware of, it is recommended to hire an electrical engineer/mechanic to run a diagnostic test to verify the truck’s electrical system is performing correctly. 

6. Age 

Even the best trucks from the most reputable brands experience performance fatigue over time. Years of wear and tear hauling heavy loads inevitably take their toll on every component of a truck’s ability to maintain high levels of performance. The older the truck, the higher probability of costly issues. 

However, an older model truck from a leading brand will always perform well if it has a well-documented maintenance history. Quality lasts for a long time – even longer when properly looked after. If a truck has a good maintenance history and has been well looked after, the date of manufacture suddenly becomes not so important. 

There are few common problems that can lead to costly repairs down the line if not identified in time. Being aware of the above will ensure that your truck performs well and lasts long to keep your business moving and expanding.  

Looking to buy a used truck? 

TIP Used is one of the largest suppliers of well-maintained second-hand trucks and trailers in the commercial vehicle sector. TIP Used, part of the leading truck and trailer leasing and rental provider TIP,  operates in some of the biggest European markets, such as the UK, Germany, Denmark and France, and in North America. 

With over 55 years of experience, TIP Used offers a variety of the best brands in Europe, including Krone, Schmitz, SDC, Volvo, MAN and DAF, while maintenance history records, financing solutions and refurbishments are available upon request.   

Visit tip-used.com to learn more about the available stock in your region or contact one of our sales managers to help you find the perfect transport solution for your needs and budget!